July 27, 2023
It’s officially time to tie the knot. From the decorations to the venue, there’s so much left to be planned-but where to start?
Planning a wedding should be an exciting and joyful experience, filled with endless possibilities to create the wedding of your dreams. And the stress? Well, that comes naturally for any wedding planner, but it shouldn’t be heavier than the diamond on your ring finger.
If you’re looking for elegant and unique ideas to make your special day truly memorable, look no further. Here are 11 creative wedding and reception ideas that are sure to add not just a touch, but a dazzle of elegance to your celebration. So, let’s dive in and get inspired!
1. Whimsical Outdoor Rose Garden Ceremony
When it comes to your marriage, aka the biggest milestone of your life, you have no time to settle for “basic.” Life is short, so why not seal the kiss with the perfect scenery?
Imagine sharing heartfelt vows surrounded by blooming roses and lush greenery in a beautiful outdoor garden. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and nurture a whimsical ambiance with hanging floral arrangements, dainty fairy lights, and a charming arch adorned with fresh flowers. This enchanting setting will set the stage for a magical start to your adventure together.
2. Vintage Décor
Transport your guests to a bygone era with a timeless wedding aesthetic. Incorporate antique elements like vintage lace tablecloths, mismatched china, and rustic candelabras. Enhance the nostalgic atmosphere with soft, muted color palettes and delicate flower arrangements.
Need more inspo? Check out these black and white wedding photos we love. Speaking of timeless, we also love a distressed wooden vibe for your farmhouse accents.
3. Candlelit Reception
Love under the candlelight? It’s giving perfect romantic energy. Infuse romance with elegance in an intimate candlelit reception. Use a combination of pillar candles, tea lights, and lanterns to bathe the space in a warm and flickering glow. Think ethereal when adding lighting to add an ambiance that invites meaningful conversations and connections among your guests.
4. Fairy Tale Castle Venue
There’s no need to wish upon a star when you can create your own fairytale. Host your wedding in a majestic castle that showcases grand architecture, stunning interiors, sprawling grounds, and a regal backdrop.
Can’t find a castle? You don’t need one. As long as you have wide open space and luscious, rolling fields like an outdoor golf course ceremony, you can incorporate royal elements like luxurious fabrics, ornate chandeliers, and a grand entrance. Believe us; when your love is magic, the rest is happily ever after.
5. Champagne Tower
Toast to the next chapter with the ultimate drink (or drinks) for new beginnings: the champagne tower. Arrange champagne flutes in a pyramid and let the bubbly cascade down in a graceful celebration display. It’s a glamorous way to kick off the festivities and make a memorable moment for you and your guests.
6. Gourmet Food Stations
Ditch the traditional sit-down dinner and opt for delicious gourmet food stations instead. Offer a mouthwatering variety of interactive food options like a sushi bar, build-your-own pasta, or a live carving station. The culinary experience will not only impress your guests (and foodies) but also provide them with a chance to mingle and experience different flavors.
7. Hanging Floral Installations
Is your love as fresh as a garden? Include tasteful lush greenery arrangements and blooms hanging from the ceiling above the dance floor or tables. This unique décor will bring mother nature right to your altar. What better place to do this than an outdoor golf course reception?
8. Live Music and Entertainment
Gone are the days of Kool & Gang’s “Celebrate” blasting on repeat from the DJ speakers—we’ve all heard it. Heighten the entertainment factor by hiring live musicians or performers like jazz bands, string quartets, or even a dance troupe to keep it original and interesting.
For an outdoor wedding venue and reception, we love the sophistication of a string instrument like a violin strumming as the bride walks down the aisle. It’s a surefire way to really keep the celebration alive.
9. Interactive Photo Booth
A popular choice for many weddings already, the interactive photo booth never gets old. Capture fun and candid moments in a beautifully-designed photo booth—or for a modern twist—in front of a selfie tripod and ring light.
Remember disposables? It’s time to break out the Instax for some good old-fashioned keepsakes. Don’t forget the guestbook!
10. Signature Cocktails
What’s a good party without the drinks? For some guests, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere at the wedding bar. Concoct custom signature cocktails that match your personality and wedding theme.
Work with a mixologist to craft unique and delicious drinks your guests can sip throughout the evening (or morning, for brunch wedding lovers). Serve them in stylish glassware with personalized drink stirrers or garnishes for an extra splash of elegance.
Want more? Check out our Baja Blast recipe under #9!
11. Sparkler Send-Off
End your night with a sparkle. A dazzling sparkler send-off equips every guest with their own sparkler as you exit as newlyweds, creating a magical tunnel of light. It’s the perfect grand finale-it’s picture-perfect.
At VB National On the Green, we’re chock-full of elegant outdoor wedding reception ideas. Get in touch with our outdoor wedding venue in Virginia Beach to get planning.