As couples seek to orchestrate extraordinary celebrations, the allure of destination weddings has taken center stage. Amidst this trend, Nashville, Tennessee, emerges as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends vibrant culture with picturesque landscapes.

This article explores the top ten scenic wedding venues in the city, focusing on the prestigious Estate at Cherokee Dock. These carefully curated venues offer a harmonious fusion of elegance and charm. As modern couples aspire to craft unique and unforgettable wedding experiences, Nashville’s enchanting setting, combined with the allure of the featured venues, promises a canvas upon which dreams can be painted in the most beautiful and memorable hues.

The Appeal of Nashville for Destination Weddings

Beyond its musical acclaim, Nashville beckons couples with its unique blend of cultural vibrancy and natural allure, making it an ideal destination for weddings. The city’s lively entertainment scene guarantees pre- and post-celebration enjoyment, while its scenic landscapes encompass rolling hills and serene lakesides.

The captivating fusion of urban energy and tranquil surroundings creates an ambiance of romance and excitement that resonates with those seeking a unique celebration. From charming courtyards to historic venues, Nashville’s allure is a blank canvas for couples to paint their love story. As couples explore their options, the city’s irresistible pull intertwines seamlessly with their dreams, promising an enchanting experience that will forever be etched in their hearts.

Top 10 Scenic Destination Wedding Venues in Nashville:

1. Estate at Cherokee Dock is a premier lakeside gem with various services and grandeur, setting the stage for unforgettable weddings in Nashville.
2. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is where elegance meets nature, offering historic charm and expansive gardens for romantic ceremonies and receptions.
3. The Bell Tower is a historic Nashville venue for weddings and events, radiating vintage charm and elegance in the heart of downtown.
4. The Bridge Building is a modern event space with city views on the Cumberland River, perfect for weddings and corporate events.
5. The Cordelle is an urban oasis with industrial-chic flair, perfect for trendy couples seeking a stylish celebration.
6. The Hermitage Hotel delivers opulent grandeur and timeless luxury, delivering a regal setting for extravagant affairs.
7. Mint Springs Farm is nestled in nature. This picturesque farm showcases barns and landscapes for rustic-chic weddings.
8. Riverwood Mansion is southern elegance in an antebellum mansion, offering timeless beauty and historic allure.
9. Loveless Barn is a quaint barn charm meets Southern hospitality, making it ideal for intimate gatherings.
10. Hachland Hill is a rustic haven surrounded by rolling hills, creating a serene atmosphere for enchanting weddings.

These venues offer diverse settings, from elegant estates to lush gardens, ensuring that couples can find the perfect backdrop for their dream wedding in Nashville.

Estate at Cherokee Dock: A Premier Choice

Elevating Nashville’s wedding scene to a new pinnacle is the esteemed Estate at Cherokee Dock, a beacon of sophistication and luxury. Recognized for hosting weddings that are nothing short of extraordinary, this venue sets the standard for a remarkable celebration.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Estate at Cherokee Dock prides itself on offering hospitality and premier services, meticulously tailored to fulfill every wedding aspiration. The versatility of its spaces allows for seamless adaptation to various wedding styles and seasons, ensuring that each couple’s vision is brought to life flawlessly.

At the Estate at Cherokee Dock, the desires of couples in search of perfection are fulfilled. The venue’s dedication to excellence and personalized service ensures that every detail is tailored to each couple’s specific tastes.

From intimate gatherings to grand galas, the Estate at Cherokee Dock’s dedication to crafting remarkable experiences shines through. Its reputation is not just founded on picturesque surroundings but also on its ability to curate weddings that tell a story—a tale of love, romance, and celebration. For those envisioning a lakeside wedding in Nashville, the Estate at Cherokee Dock stands as a testament to luxury, offering an idyllic haven where wedding dreams become reality.

Lakeside Serenity: A Dreamy Wedding Setting

The Estate at Cherokee Dock presents an exquisite and idyllic backdrop that conjures up images of pure enchantment for people drawn to the allure of lakeside weddings in Nashville. The concept of a lakeside wedding in Nashville harmonizes seamlessly with the venue’s ethereal ambiance.

Imagine the poetic exchange of vows beside tranquil waters, where lush foliage frames the scene and serene vistas stretch into the horizon. The lakeside embrace of the Estate of Cherokee Dock crafts an intimate and profoundly romantic atmosphere, casting an everlasting spell over couples and their cherished guests.

The memory of Regan and Bryce’s lavish modern wedding, which took place against the venue’s serene lakeside vistas, is a lovely example of this charming allure. These natural features effortlessly capture the essence of Nashville’s scenic beauty, weaving a tapestry of memories that resonate deeply in the heart.

With lakeside allure that awakens the soul, the Estate at Cherokee Dock extends a heartfelt invitation to couples, beckoning them to realize their dream of a wedding that harmoniously blends the elegance of celebration with the beauty of nature. Amidst these serene surroundings, where love and landscape intertwine, the Estate at Cherokee Dock invites couples to create a chapter of their love story that resonates as a timeless masterpiece.

Accommodating Every Wedding Style and Season

Estate at Cherokee Dock doesn’t just offer picturesque settings; it’s also renowned for its premier services that guarantee an impeccable wedding journey. The dedicated staff, powered by Infinity Hospitality, and personalized planning assistance ensure that every detail aligns with the couple’s vision.

From conceptualizing themes to coordinating vendors, the venue’s team excels in curating seamless celebrations. The hospitality extends to catering, décor, and technical support, relieving couples of stress and allowing them to immerse themselves in the joyous occasion fully.

Couples can rest assured that their aspirations for a perfect wedding will be met with the Estate’s commitment to excellence. The venue’s stellar services transform dreams into reality, crafting cherished memories that reflect the individuality of each couple. With Estate at Cherokee Dock, couples are guaranteed a stunning backdrop and a flawlessly executed and unforgettable experience.

Making the Dream a Reality: Booking Your Nashville Destination Wedding

As the allure of a Nashville destination wedding takes hold, couples are invited to transform their dreams into reality at the Estate at Cherokee Dock. Booking this idyllic venue is a seamless journey, guided by a team dedicated to turning visions into enchanting experiences.

Couples can initiate their wedding planning by reaching out to the Estate’s expert coordinators, who adeptly navigate the intricate details. From choosing the perfect setting to curating the finest nuances, every step is taken with precision and care.

The process extends beyond logistics, ensuring that each couple’s unique love story is etched into the celebration. For young couples seeking a destination wedding that embodies elegance and sophistication, Estate at Cherokee Dock promises an event that transcends expectations, creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Just outside of Nashville, a world of enchantment awaits couples seeking the perfect destination wedding. The city’s dynamic culture and natural beauty blend seamlessly, setting the stage for extraordinary celebrations.

Among the top ten scenic wedding venues, the Estate at Cherokee Dock shines as a premier choice, where dreams unfold in a realm of elegance and grace. With its lakeside allure, hospitality, and commitment to excellence, this venue epitomizes the essence of a Nashville destination wedding. For couples embarking on a journey of love, the Estate at Cherokee Dock offers an exquisite canvas on which to paint the story of their special day, creating memories that will forever resonate with the soul.

Ballyvolane House

If you are looking for an outdoor wedding in a forest, Ballyvolane House is a great venue. This house is warm, stylish, and incredibly cozy, a beautiful Irish country home located in the scenic Northern Cork countryside of Southern Ireland. Ballyvolane House provides high-end manor accommodation, tailored intimate weddings, glamping, and much more. There is no doubt that this venue will add even more magic to your special day.

Hotel Doolin

Whether you want a simple or lavish wedding ceremony, Hotel Doolin can accommodate you. The hotel is located in Doolin, Clare, Ireland and offers several unique areas throughout, including a rustic barn that can accommodate up to 300 people. The hotel features beautifully landscaped gardens and offers two different styles of ceremonies; boho and rustic. The hotel only hosts one wedding per weekend, so you and your family can enjoy the hotel exclusively.

Killruddery House and Gardens

Killruddery House is an 800-acre breathtaking estate that you should consider for your wedding ceremony. The house is a large country house located in Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland, only 20 kilometres from Dublin. Originally a 17th-century mansion, the present structure was remodelled and extended in Elizabethan style in 1820. This venue is known for its light-filled orangery, which is a perfect place to hold ceremonies. There are also amazing gardens on the estate that are luxurious, elegant, and stunning. It’s hard to go wrong with Killruddery House and Gardens.

Lisnavagh House and Gardens

The Lisnavagh House stands on the edge of Rathvilly in County Carlow, Ireland, and is an example of a gothic revival country house. The venue is a gem with lush accommodations and acres of beautiful gardens. Guests can stay at the big house or choose from one of the cottages around the estate, and your ceremony can take place in the barn, which can hold up to 160 of your friends and family.

Ballilogue Estate

This venue is a true hidden gem located in the Kilkenny countryside. In Ballilogue, you’ll find a perfect blend of classic countryside charm and contemporary design. The estate can be yours exclusively for you and your family for an entire weekend. Wedding ceremonies take place in the Old Dairy, which can hold 30 guests with the option of adding a marquee for an additional 60 guests. This venue is perfect for those looking for an intimate setting.

There is no shortage of romantic wedding venues in Ireland, and it’s easy to see why so many decide to have their wedding there. If you have already selected a venue for your wedding, why not take some time to relax and play an on-theme Romance Slot Online before diving into more planning? You never know; you could get some extra wedding inspiration!

If you’re having a large, outdoor wedding with access to plenty of space, then the options are impressively vast. However, if you have an indoor celebration, then your possibilities are still great but perhaps not as comprehensive. Either way, to stop people turning to their smartphones to play Canada’s favourite online slots or to help limit some embarrassing dad dancing, games and activities are a wonderful addition to any wedding day. You don’t need to add a whole selection either. The impact of one hilarious activity could live long in the memories of all of your guests, so pick wisely, and you could be on to a winner.

To help provide you with some wedding day inspiration, here is a look at some of the best games and activities for your wedding guests in 2021.

Jenga

The traditional tabletop version of Jenga adds a dose of fun to any occasion, but if you can track down the larger version of the game, then you could provide a few more laughs. A life-size set of blocks will cost you more but you won’t regret it, especially when you’re seeing Jenga constructions falling and hearing plenty of laughs. A solid and reliable game in terms of providing entertainment, Jenga is a popular choice with many couples.

Connect Four

Similar to Jenga, a life-sized version of Connect Four will keep your guests entertained for hours on end. The game is straightforward and easy to play, making it ideal for both adults and children, with the humongous version of it appealing to people in general also. A classic game, Connect Four is another strong option for a wedding.

High Striker

A brilliant choice if you’re keen to get everyone involved, High Striker will have all of your wedding guests clamoring for their turn to wield the mallet and prove that they are the strongest. This old-fashioned carnival game never disappoints.

Wheel of Fun

Try putting together a custom wheel of activities to help encourage guest interaction and enable a wedding reception to provide a few laughs, too. Couples or individuals can then spin the wheel and face their fate, be it a chicken dance in front of everyone, telling a joke to their table, or a simple instruction for the bride and groom to kiss.

Dart Art Station

One for the creative types among us, a dart art station is a fun wedding reception activity. All you need to do is hang a large canvas on the wall, fill up some water balloons with paint or provide paintbrushes to throw, then let the guests leave their creative mark on the canvas. When the wedding is complete and your guests have exhibited their creativity, you and your partner can keep it.

Five-A-Side Soccer

Instead of purchasing the usual croquet set or giant dice, try buying two small five-a-side soccer goals to not only keep the kids entertained but the adults too. You can have bride against groom penalty shoot-outs or divide guests into small teams for a bit of soccer-related fun.

Other popular games and activities for weddings are giant checkers, a word search, a poker station, a themed photo booth, a video game station, and a quiz based on the bride and groom.

When considering your vehicle, you want to make sure that it’s in wonderful working condition with good tires. Once the safety checklist is completed. Then you can move on to the fun. We put together a list of 11 things you can use to make your getaway car look festive, fun, classy, or traditional. Whatever your theme is, we have something here to fit it.

You don’t have to tie yourself down to one of these ideas either. They interchange well and most people use a mixture of two or more. Let’s get started.

1 – Cans

This is as traditional as it gets. Nothing screams “we just had a wedding” more than a couple of strings with tin cans tied to them attached to the back bumper. The clanging of the empty soup cans is adorable and everyone in the neighborhood would be sure to look your way. You can paint them, personalize them, or even order specialty ones online.

It began with throwing shoes in England and evolved to tied cans overtime.

2 – Signs

Our next suggestion may seem obvious but there is so much you can do with a sign the possibilities are endless. You can create a banner; you can have bumper stickers made. There are specialty license plates, magnets, and so many other ways to put the words “Just Married” on your car, this is where you can let your creative juices flow.

And signs are a great companion piece to cans.

3 – Balloons

Everyone loves balloons. The manufacturing of the rubber balloons we know began in 1907 and they slowly grew popular over time. People use them to celebrate birthday parties, anniversaries, graduations, rites of passage, religious ceremonies, the list goes on and on. And they are easy to coordinate with the color scheme you chose.

Balloons make people happy and you want everyone to feel joy on your special day.

4 – Flowers

Another way you can let everyone who sees your car know that you are celebrating recent nuptials is by decorating your car with flowers. If the climate agrees this is a fantastic choice. Floral arrangements add a touch of elegance to anything they touch. This scheme would work well with a rented antique car or even a classic pick up with a bed of flowers in the back.

Paired with a simple hand-written sign, this would work from a city wedding to a barn burner.

5 – Bows

There are some ways to accentuate flowers and signs. Bows are one of the best. When it comes to weddings bows can be found everywhere from how the bouquets are tied together to the ties around the grooms and his men’s necks. It only seems fitting that, when throwing together your list of favorites, bows come up toward the top like ours.

You can tie bows anywhere and it brings the aesthetic up a notch.

6 – Bells

Wedding bells are a tradition that began in churches and was used to ward off evil spirits. We still love it when the church bells ring but adding a few of these musical additions to your getaway theme will announce to everyone around that you have just tied the knot. Bells are like taking tin cans up a notch.

You could even go a step above and do a combination of cans and bells.

7 – Chains

You might be a bit darker in your tastes. You prefer heavy metal music, black leather, dark makeup, and a goth look. This idea might be something to fit with your Halloween theme. Chains are loud, clunky, and a fun way to do something a little bit different and be daring. Of course, you are playing with the “ball and chain” trope but doing so humorously.

8 – Pet Toys

Our pets are family and what better way to honor them than to make them a part of your special day. Some people use their dogs as ring bearers, others have their cats carried down the aisle in a basket. A fun way to show everyone that two animal lovers got married is by tying a couple of bones or toys to the back of the car along with the cans.

Be sure to get rid of those toys though. They could be dangerous to ingest after being dragged.

9 – Flags

Flags have been used to announce all types of events since humans first learned to sew a piece of fabric on to a pole. They have been used in battles, to announce the entrance of royalty, and are even used to honor the dead. Flags can offer some people a sense of pride, if it represents their heritage, which is an option as well.

10 – Pom Poms

Not just for cheerleaders or sporting events, pom poms are kind of like bows and flags. Something that is known to be synonymous with festive events. You can decorate your car from head to toe or go with a more tasteful approach and just hang them around your sign. These are also a nice way to incorporate your colors into your getaway theme.

11 – Greenery

Just like flowers, greenery like wreaths and garlands of nature is another elegant way to declare to the world that something wonderful has just happened to the people inside. These are a great way to accentuate other ideas on our list. Flowers with greenery are a no brainer. What about some balloons that are tied down by vines?

As you can see, there are so many options when it comes to decorating your getaway car you should have no problem coming up with creative ideas of your own. We do recommend sticking with a couple of the options here and build on those. Limiting yourself to three might be a good idea.

Good luck and happy decorating!

You may not be into following conventions when it comes to your wedding, and that great! Your day is all about celebrating the love and union between you and your partner, and that can be done in many unique ways. It won’t follow a set formula or structure.

However, when it comes to wedding speeches and toasts, you do have to plan ahead! People need advanced notice if they’re going to pick up a mic and engage in public speaking. Planning a timeline for the toasts will also help you make sure that you get to have those juicy, heart-warming moments that are going to stick with you, and your guests, for years to come.

Ready to do some planning? This guide will help you get crystal clear about the speeches and toasts that will be offered up on your big day.

Who Will Take the Mic?

First things first: Who is going to speak at your wedding? We suggest a list of three to five people, including the host, the parents, the maid of honor, and the best man. By “host”, we mean you or your partner should at some point speak up and thank guests for celebrating with you. “Parents” could be one of the bride’s parents, one of the groom’s parents, or both. Of course, you know who your maid of honor and best man are.

Other Options

Who else might take the mic? Other options include the bride or groom’s siblings, close friends, family members, or co-workers. Your situation is unique. Do you work at a fire station? Invite your Captain or Chief to speak. Raised by your grandfather? Ask him to say a few words. On a spiritual path? Maybe you want your yoga mentor to take the mic. Follow your heart, and consider the people in your life that are closest to you.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line is that you want to limit this to about five people, so that your guests don’t begin to feel restless when yet another person takes the mic. Once you have your list of five people, tell them well in advance (at least a month ahead of time!) that you’d be honored if they would speak at your wedding. This will give them plenty of time to collect the thoughts and stories that they want to share on your big day.

What Should the Toasts Include?

Wedding toasts and speeches have a few different purposes, and the purpose depends on who is giving the speech. Here’s a quick breakdown about what each speech should include. This is just a guideline! Be true to yourself, and spend some time envisioning the way you want these speeches to unfold.

Host’s Speech

At the beginning of your reception, you or your partner should take the microphone and thank guests for being there with you. This can be short and sweet. The purpose is the express gratitude and create a feeling of community. Both bride and groom can stand together, while one (usually the groom, but it’s up to you!) speak and simply offer thanks. This is a great time to say that you hope your guests enjoy the party and the great food.

Parent’s Speech

Your parents have a unique perspective on your partnership. If you invite either one of your parents, or your partner’s parents to speak, expect that they’re going to tell a story about one of you in your younger years. Get ready for some laughs! Stories about little kids are always cute (and maybe a little bit embarrassing). The parent might also welcome their new son or daughter into the family. This sentimental speech will get those fuzzy, warm,  feel-good emotions flowing in the crowds.  Expect a few tears!

Best Man and Maid of Honor Toasts

What is the Best Man’s speech all about? The Best Man should introduce himself, and then launch into a few stories about the groom. As the groom’s best friend, the best man can share his excitement about the union. Is the groom happier than ever? Does he light up when he see’s his bride? Does the future look bright? The Maid of Honor’s Speech will be similar. After introducing herself, she will share stories about the bride, speak about the union, and then share some hopes for the future.

Where Should Toasts be Given?

One of the things you want to think about ahead of time is where the toasts will be given. A great place for this is close to the place where the bride and groom are seated. Whether you’ve picked an indoor or outdoor venue, this is usually a focal point of the venue, which is perfect.

At some point in many of the speeches, the speaker will want to address the happy couple directly, so being close to the head table is good. At the rehearsal dinner, or another point before the speech will be given, pull the speaker aside and show them where you would like them to stand. You should also show them where the mic will be, and tell them when they are expected to speak.

What’s a Good Timeline for the Speeches?

Now that you have an idea about who will be speaking at your wedding, and what those speeches will entail, it’s time to put together a timeline. This doesn’t have to be rigid — as in “at 5:15 exactly”. Instead, you want to think about benchmark moments during the reception. Here’s what we mean:

Kick Things Off — Soon After the Ceremony

The first benchmark moment is at the very beginning of the reception. The ceremony is over. Perhaps the guests have moved over to the reception venue, and the first glasses of champagne are being passed around. Within the first half hour of the reception, as the party is just getting started, the host should take the mic and set the tone for the reception.

Cocktail Hour Toasts

Another possible benchmark moment is once everyone has a drink in hand. This can be an ideal time for a speech! For example, the father of the bride might ask everyone to raise a glass to the happy couple.

Once Dinner is Served

Everyone is happier and more content with a plate of food in front of them! Take advantage of the fact that your guests are seated, and ready to be attentive listeners (as they butter roles or nibble salad!). You’ll notice a definite lull in conversation once guests start tucking into the grub, which means it’s the perfect time to the Best Man or Maid of Honor the microphone — and the floor.

Did this guide help you wrap your head around your wedding speeches? Hopefully you’re starting to get an idea about who you want to speak at your wedding, and how you want the speeches and toasts to flow. It’s important to have a schedule in mind! Over the next few days, keep thinking about the details until you feel really clear. If you’d like, you can share your ideas and thoughts in the comments section, below! We’d love to hear from you.

You might also want to explore the option of taking multiple photos and using a tool like Adobe’s Combine Images Tool to merge images together. This approach could add a dynamic and creative touch to the wedding photo shoot, allowing for the capture of different moments and perspectives within a single frame. By incorporating this technique, you can further enhance the visual storytelling of the wedding celebration.

There are so many things you can do to make those (sometimes dreadful) hours-long wedding shoots more bearable, from changing up your backdrop to striking a funny pose. Here are some of the best ideas for those who want to try something brand-new during their wedding photo shoot.

1. Voguing from Above: Drone Photos — If you’re getting married at a particularly cool venue — such as on the beach, at a historic estate, in a sprawling cornfield or in the middle of an urban oasis — then you can’t go wrong when you zoom out to the extreme with the help of a drone. Have your bridal party wave or stand in a cool formation to capture the effect from above.
2. Play with Props: Make Funny or Cute Signs — They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but you can make it worth a thousand-plus with some cute photo signs. Have your bridal party members hold chalkboards indicating their relationship to you — i.e., new sister, college roomie, etc. — or ask them to hold signs with funny phrases.
3. Get Up-Close and Personal: Detail Shots — In addition to their dresses and suits, the bridal crew probably put a whole lot of thought into their wedding day accessories and finishing touches, like elaborate, matching manicures, pretty pieces of jewelry, hidden temp tats or novelty socks. Whatever it is, make sure your photographer captures every little detail.
4. Pose with Pets: Invite Your Furry Family Members — Who says you can’t have a best dog or a dog of honor? Even if your pup isn’t an official member of the bridal party, let him make a few cameos in a matching outfit. Because nothing makes bridesmaids and groomsmen smile bigger (and more naturally) than a pet wearing a tuxedo or a bowtie.
5. Not the Straight-and-Narrow: Unique Positions — Of course, having your best girls and guys line up for one or two group pics is essential, but you don’t always have to take the linear approach. Ask your photog to position you at different distances from the camera to create a unique, dimensional look.
6. All Dolled Up: Fun Getting Ready Photos — Bust out the champagne, don your bridesmaid robes and crack a smile! No wedding day shoot is complete without shots of all the girls getting dolled up, and you can make it extra fun with pics of your girls jumping on the bed, applying lip gloss and clinking mimosa glasses.
7. Add Texture to the Backdrop: Barns, Bricks and Beyond — Something as simple as adjusting the background of your photo can make a huge difference in the aesthetic and vibe it portrays. Play with fun backdrops, like barn wood, bricks, shrubs, drapery or even paper printed with a unique pattern.
8. Getting Active: Posed Activity Shots — Mixing up a cocktail in the dressing room, shooting hoops outside the venue, hitting golf balls in a tux, walking the dog in a wedding dress: There’s something super cool about watching people dressed in formal attire do everyday activities, and it also makes great pics.
9. Gender–Benders: Undoing Stereotypes — It’s your wedding and your rules! Playing with the typical gendered photos can be a fun way to add an unconventional feel to your wedding pics. Have the girls pick up the groom or ask the guys to hold the bouquets for a group pic. Don’t forget to ask the guys to do the typical bridesmaid jump photo, too!
10. Get a Little Irreverent: Stop by the Bar — Rowdy bridal parties will definitely want to get a few snapshots of the group imbibing at the bar during or before the wedding. Have your ladies or gents line up at the bar and chug from a bottle or take a shot for a fun, irreverent snap.
11. Keep it Candid: Skip the Posy Pics — Noticing a trend? The biggest shift in wedding photography in the past few years has been a preference for fewer posed photos. Sure, you’ve got to have your requisite group pics, but it seems that everyone prefers the more candid wedding photos nowadays. Have your photog keep the shutter clicking even when you’re not posed.
12. Totally Magical: Toss Some Confetti — Pop a confetti canon and have your photographer snap away! You can also have someone who’s not in the shot throw confetti, glitter or fake snow to create that cool snow globe effect. Have all the guys and gals smile, blow a kiss or jump while the photographer snaps.
13. L-O-V-E: Spell Something Cute — You’d be surprised to find how many different words you can spell just from posing your arms in a certain way. L-O-V-E, I-D-O or O-H-I-O (for all you Buckeyes fans out there). Have your crew send a big message with some fun letter poses that play into your theme or sentiment.
14. But First: Let Me Take A (Professional) Selfie — In effect, selfies are the exact opposite of professionally staged wedding photos. They’re messy, silly and off-the-cuff. But that’s what makes them special! Have your photographer lend you the camera for a group selfie like no other.
15. Watch Them Gasp: Reaction Photos — One of the best parts about the wedding day is watching everyone react to seeing the bride in her gown. Have your photographer create “first looks” with your bridesmaids, groomsmen and even your parents and ask her to shoot their reactions.
16. Themed Photo Shoots — Consider incorporating a themed photo shoot into your wedding day, such as a vintage-inspired session, a fairytale-themed shoot, or a glamorous Hollywood-inspired photo session. This can add a unique and personalized touch to your wedding album.
17. Nighttime Shoot — Embrace the romance of the evening by arranging for a nighttime photo shoot. Utilize creative lighting techniques, such as fairy lights, lanterns, or sparklers, to capture stunning and atmospheric images under the stars.

Capturing the Love

The goal of any good wedding day shoot should be to capture the essence of the day, and that usually means a whole lot of love. Your photographer wants to immortalize the tenderness you feel with your new spouse, but also the special bond that exists between you and your closest friends. A little bit of planning will help bring that to life even more!

Your send-off is like a launch-pad, rocketing you and your partner out into the world as a couple. You can do your send-off after the ceremony, or after the reception. Many brides worry that if they save their send-off for the end of the reception, there won’t be enough guests left. However, the right kind of send-off will carry an air of excitement about it, no matter how many people are there to do it! Here are ten exit ideas for your boho wedding:

1. Lavender petal toss: The bonus is the sweet smell!
2. Fall leaves: An environmentally friendly choice, great for the budget, and colorful too. Perfect for your autumn wedding.
3. Sparklers: Check out heart shaped sparklers for a fun twist! These can be used in a rustic reception venue or outside.
4. Streamers: Use bright colors that match your environment.
5. Ribbon bell wands: The sound of the little bells attached to ribbon wands will amaze you!
6. Environmentally friendly confetti: A twist on the traditional confetti. Chose one that is biodegradable.
7. Feathers: Lovely white feathers floating through the air gives your send-off a dreamy quality.
8. Birdseed toss: The birdies will love this one!
9. Umbrella tunnel: Planning a spring wedding? Exit under bright yellow parasols or rain umbrellas.
10. Bubbles: Create a playful end to the night. Great for a backyard wedding.

Guests love participating in the send-off. It can be a great way to move from the ceremony to the reception portion of the evening, or to end the night. Do you already have a plan for your magical send-off? Care to tell us all about it? Leave a note below!

Programs

The most common option for displaying a wedding timeline is a sign. However, it can be equally convenient and helpful to guests if you provide an order of events list on the back of their program. This way, your guests are more likely to look and can carry a schedule around with them for the duration of the wedding.

Mirror

Surround a vintage mirror with greenery and flowers, decorate with a fancy font, and your order of events sign will be an absolutely stunning addition to your decor.

Chalkboard Window

Using an old distressed window with sectioned slots makes it easy to keep your timeline organized. Buy a small can of chalkboard paint, give the chalk pen to a friend with great handwriting, and you’ll have a gorgeous DIY sign to give direction to your guests.

Rustic Wooden Sign

A rustic wooden sign with either straight sheet wood or pallet boards would look lovely at a woodland reception. Make sure the color and font stand out enough against the darker grained background so that the sign can be seen from a distance.

Foldable Chalkboard

This simple yet elegant chalkboard sign would look beautiful in a rustic barn setting. An added bonus of a foldable chalkboard is that it is easier to move from the ceremony to the reception venue.

Signs

Whether you need to instruct your guests where to sit, display your menu, or simply decorate with a special quote, pallet wood makes a beautiful and sturdy backing for your wedding sign.

Photo Source: Snippetandink.com

Decorated Chandelier

A pallet wood chandelier looks especially beautiful in a venue with a high vaulted ceiling. Use your imagination to create a unique and personalized chandelier that matches your wedding theme.

Photo Source: Brooke Allison Photo via Weddingchicks.com

Schedule Display

Because pallets have natural spaces between the boards, they work great for listing your wedding schedule in a way that is easy for your guests to follow.

Photo Source: Philippa James Photography via Lovemydress.net

Backdrop

Make a pallet wall and cover it with flowers, ferns, or other greenery to create a mystical woodsy backdrop for your pictures.

Photo Source: Adam Barnes Photography via Hillcitybride.com

Reception Table

Stack pallets together to provide a table top for your guests in a laid-back picnic-style reception.

Photo Source: Padilla & Rigau Photographers via Thenaturalweddingcompany.co.uk

Dance Floor

Pallets are extremely sturdy. Use them for the base of your dance floor to create a unique space you can dance the night away on.

Photo Source: Nick Evans Photo via Hellomay.com.au

Display

A pallet is a simple and tasteful way to display pictures, seating assignments, and a host of other items at your reception.

Photo Source: Kat Mervyn via Whimsicalwonderlandweddings.com

Bar Counter

If you’re feeling really motivated and are in a “do it yourself” mood, build your own rustic bar counter for cocktail hour. Your guests will love it, and you’ll have a useful memento of your wedding to use for years to come.

Photo Source: Conforti Photography via Modwedding.com