Creativity In Planning: What does it look like?

Over the years, I've come across some of the best wedding ideas, each unique and reflective of the couple's individuality. Wedding celebrations vary, and it's a day where people truly do what they want. Every wedding I've been a part of has been unlike any other, and I believe that's the beauty of it. Couples decide how they want their wedding day to unfold, making it a special and memorable occasion.

Just like any good story, a wedding day has its acts or parts. There's the getting ready in the morning, photo sessions with family and friends in the afternoon, the ceremony, and the subsequent celebration. Three parts that you can infuse with your own style and make uniquely yours. Here are some ideas, both big and small, to consider:

1. Lake or Riverboat Cruise Wedding: If you love nature and the outdoors, consider having your wedding on a lake or riverboat cruise. Locations like Lake Minnetonka, St. Croix River, and Stillwater offer picturesque settings.

2. Outdoor Ceremony in a Park: Opt for an outdoor ceremony in a local or state park. You can even have your wedding in a rental tent in the woods at a state park for a unique touch.

3. Nighttime Forest Wedding: Take it a step further by hosting a nighttime wedding celebration in state forests and woods. Group campsites, such as Gooseberry Falls, can accommodate up to 150 guests.

   (Check Minnesota State Park Group Campsites for more options.)

4. Nature-Inspired Vows: Write your vows on the day of your wedding for a personal and spontaneous touch.

5. Immediate Post-Ceremony Dance: Make a grand entrance after your ceremony and kick off the celebration with a dance.

6. Scheduled Private Moments: Plan intimate moments throughout the day.

7. Post-Ceremony Toast: Have a toast right after the ceremony with all your guests.

8. Small Wedding Party: Keep your wedding party small, with no more than three close friends.

9. Prefilled Flasks and Champagne Popping: Carry prefilled flasks with your alcohol of choice and consider popping champagne for a fun photo opportunity.

10. Memorial Reminders: Carry reminders of family or friends in your pockets or clothing.

11. Sparklers for Grand Exit: Conclude the night with a grand exit using sparklers.

12. DIY Music with Large Speakers: If you prefer not to have a DJ, use large speakers and plug in your phone for a personalized music experience.

13. Live Musicians: Live musicians are a timeless choice for wedding music.

14. Fake First Look Photo Opportunity: Consider a lighthearted photo opportunity, like a fake first look with a groomsman wearing an old white dress.

A Personal Story: I recall a wedding I photographed in 2022 where the couple incorporated personal touches. They used a yellow umbrella as a reference to their favorite TV show, "How I Met Your Mother." With only two close friends as their wedding party, the day was laid-back and intimate. They even had a private moment on the hill at Cannon River Winery. The couple did things their way, and it made their ceremony truly memorable.

In the end, I encourage you to choose what feels right for you and make your wedding day a reflection of your unique style and preferences.