We know everyone is after that picture perfect wedding day and with the rise of Pinterest wedding boards brides and grooms are always trying to elevate the look of their wedding day! What couples often don't realize is that these dream weddings don't have to be particularly difficult or expensive to create. There are a few small things you can do to achieve the heightened vibe you are looking for. We've included some free options, some low cost options, some DIY wedding options, and some options that may be a little bit more luxe. There is something for everyone so keep reading to check out our 10 tips to easily elevate your wedding!
Calligraphy
Something as simple as a beautifully calligraphic invite or escort card can be a great way to jazz up your wedding day without breaking the bank. There are so many wonderful calligraphy vendors to choose from in Seattle, or if you are on a budget, DIY your details! You can find a free or low cost calligraphy course online. If you want something a little more robust, sign up for a calligraphy class. You may even be able to get a friend to come; trying bribing her with champagne to help put those new skills to use to help you get your wedding calligraphy done in half the time!
DIY Monogram Envelope Liner
We found this amazing idea on Martha Stewart Weddings and we are so glad we did! It may take a little bit of your time to do this, but isn't that what DIY is all about? Grab your fiancé, grab a friend, and get down to it. It will add a little pizzazz to your invitation suite and your guests will be wowed.
Napkin Folds
This would be a completely free way to heighten your wedding day design. Honestly, we cringe when we see napkins tucked into wine glasses or propped up in a fan! And we're not even going to touch on a lotus fold or a swan - no animals please. There are so many other napkin folds to choose from! There are tons of fancy folds like the bowtie or envelope, which take a little more time. Or you can opt for a classy yet functional pocket fold with your menu tucked in. Ask your catering staff what they can do and play around with what looks best on your tablescape.
Decor & Floral Recycling
You don't have to have separate design elements for your ceremony and reception. If you are planning to have flowers during your ceremony, use them as much as possible by weaving them into your reception design plan as well. For example, a lot of couples choose to have "altar flowers" or "aisle flowers" in their ceremony space even if they aren't getting married in a church. Post ceremony, take these flowers and place them on your ancillary tables or even your dinner tables! Beef up the elegance of your reception through this method. Don't let anything go to waste; you can never have too many flowers!
Lighting/Candles
One super easy way to elevate your wedding day is to add more lighting. Choose from uplighting, cafe lights, twinkle lights, candles, etc. There are so many ways you can incorporate mood lighting into your ceremony and reception. A well lit event can really transform the feel quickly and hopefully for the better. If you don't want to pay for the options above, dress your tables with tons of candles. We love how candelabras and candlesticks really make table look so luxurious - especially long tables. Having a table that is dripping in candles is so beautiful!
Open Bar & Signature Cocktails
This may be a little bit more pricey than a cash bar, but trust me, your guests will thank you. There is nothing worse than a cash bar at a wedding. Not only will it disappoint your guests, but it just cheapens the overall feeling of the day. If you're not sure that you want to spend a ton of money on the bar, think about offering beer and wine and then a signature cocktail or two. This will cut down on the amount of liquor you need to provide. If you already planned on having an open bar and want to add a little more to the day, signature cocktails are a great way to achieve this! We think it's so fun when couples choose a cocktail or two that represents them to give a personalized feel.
Late Night Snacks
A lot of caterers these days build late night bites into their wedding day packages. We are SO in love with this trend! Toward the end of the night your guests have danced off their dinner and the alcohol is still flowing. What could be better than snacks to refuel them before your after party? If your caterer doesn't offer this but you still want to include it in your day, consider hiring a food truck or bringing in your favorite guilty pleasure. We have seen everything from tacos to donuts, pizza to pies passed late night and I promise your friends will love it.
Welcome Bags
Creating well curated welcome bags is the perfect way to kick off the wedding weekend. You can find tons of stunningly crafted welcome bags all over. Looking for something a little easier on the budget or more DIY? Combine a few of your favorite things such as taffy from the beach you got engaged at, local Route 11 chips, or drinks to keep it personal. Don't forget local brochures and maps for your wedding area and a small informational sheet of details to keep everyone looped into activities. Your guests will feel special and that's a great way to start your weekend!
Lounge Area
This may be one of the more expensive items to make your big day feel fancy, but creating a lounge area is a great way to impress your guests. Whether your aesthetic is vintage or modern, your wedding is in a barn or ballroom, you can always find space for a little furniture to create a unique focal point. Small vignettes of rental furniture allows guests to mingle, enjoy the dance floor from a lounge space, and rest in style.
Personal Touches
By adding details that are catered to you as a couple or as individuals, you can easily add a little magic to your wedding day. Incorporating these might take a little more time but they are well worth it. If you want to go all out, add a personalized note at each guests seat. This will really blow them away and can be completely free!
We hope you enjoyed out 10 tips in easily elevating your Seattle wedding! Feel free to shoot us a note at hello@willowandivyevents.com if you have any questions or want us to help elevate your wedding day! We're always happy to help out!
Original post written by Alex of Willow & Ivy Events for United with Love.
Photography by Rachel Howerton Photography, Florals by Petal + Vine