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50 Sweet Props You'll Want to Use in Your Wedding Photos

You don't need an arsenal of props for your wedding photos — but a sweet sign, a whimsical element, or a sentimental memento can take your pictures to the next level. Plus, if you're not entirely comfortable being on camera, a prop gives you something to do with your hands! Here, check out some of our favorite ideas from real weddings. 

By: Kristen Klein

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  • Sentimental Moments

    Sentimental Moments

    Hold photos from your parents' weddings for a sweet and sentimental photo.

    Photo Credit: Ana Lui Photography

  • Sentimental Moments

    Sentimental Moments

    Honor a loved one who can't be with you on your wedding day with a meaningful photo.

    Photo Credit: Sara Jayne Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Pop some champagne (and confetti!) with your bridesmaids.

    Photo Credit: Jackie Willome Photography

  • Sunglasses

    Sunglasses

    Slip on a pair of shades to add a little attitude to your pics.

    Photo Credit: Brushfire Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Celebrate your "just married" status with wooden letters.

    Photo Credit: Brookelyn Photography

  • Cell Phones

    Cell Phones

    Capture your gown from all angles with a little help from your bridesmaids.

    Photo Credit: Cinematic by David M

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Add a fun pop of color with oversized pinwheels.

    Photo Credit: Orange Girl Photographs

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Have each of your bridesmaids hold up a sign describing how you two met.

    Photo Credit: Wedding Photography by Vince and Carla

  • Say Thanks

    Say Thanks

    Get your bridal party members to help you say thanks.

    Photo Credit: Snap Photography

  • Sunglasses

    Sunglasses

    Place your shades in the sand and catch your own reflection.

    Photo Credit: Yazmin Photography

  • Balloons

    Balloons

    Build even more anticipation for your first look by hiding behind balloons until the moment of the big reveal.

    Photo Credit: Michael Segal Photography

  • Say Thanks

    Say Thanks

    Take advantage of the opportunity to capture a perfect photo for your wedding thank-you cards.

    Photo Credit: EE Photography

  • Backdrops

    Backdrops

    Oversized illuminated letters create a memorable backdrop for your photos.

    Photo Credit: Babb Photo

  • Bicycles

    Bicycles

    Take a spin on a bicycle built for two.

    Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Umbrellas aren't just for a rainy day; add a pop of color to your wedding photos with a bold heart-shaped version.

    Photo Credit: Christine Choi Photography

  • Books

    Books

    Showcase your most beloved book series with your bridesmaids.

    Photo Credit: Heroic Photography

  • Natural Elements

    Natural Elements

    Have your bridal party shower you with flower petals.

    Photo Credit: JJ Chen Photography

  • Banners

    Banners

    Run through a "just married" banner for a fun and memorable photo op.

    Photo Credit: Whitney Lee Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Arm your bridesmaids with maracas while you sip a fruity cocktail.

    Photo Credit: FineArt Studio

  • Signs

    Signs

    Check the final item off your list with this fun chalkboard sign.

    Photo Credit: Snappy Shots by Bev

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Print oversized cutouts of your bridal party members for some memorable photo ops.

    Photo courtesy of Fatheads

  • Sparklers

    Sparklers

    Use a sparkler like a magic wand!

    Photo Credit: Life with a View Studio

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Make the most of a rainy wedding day with cute matching props.

    Photo Credit: Danielle Rettig

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Clear bubble umbrellas make this kiss photo even more sweet.

    Photo Credit: Jess Collins Photography

  • Signs

    Signs

    Spell out how you feel with a sweet sign.

    Photo Credit: Corey Potter Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Indulge in your playful side with a colorful parachute.

    Photo Credit: Radiant Photography by the Chansons

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Feel the love with your bridesmaids.

    Photo Credit: Rachwal Photography

  • Sentimental Moments

    Sentimental Moments

    Get your parents in on the fun by having them hold up signs saying how long they've been married, while you and your husband hold photos from their weddings.

    Photo Credit: Belen Isabel Photography

  • Balloons

    Balloons

    Oversized balloons are an easy and whimsical prop.

    Photo Credit: Peaches & Mint

  • Swings

    Swings

    A regular park swing just won't do; dress it up with fresh greenery and a few accent flowers.

    Photo Credit: Papered Heart Photography

  • Garlands

    Garlands

    A heart and dot garland makes your photos pop.

    Photo Credit: Becca Rillo Photography

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Use your umbrella to channel Mary Poppins for a fun photo.

    Photo Credit: Cramer Photo

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Spell out your new last name with your nearest and dearest.

    Photo Credit: Ashley McCormick Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Let your groom and groomsmen borrow your bouquets for a fun photo.

    Photo Credit: Mioara Dragan Photography

  • Signs

    Signs

    Keep it sweet and subtle with these wooden signs.

    Photo Credit: B. Jones Photography

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Spell out your building blocks for a happy marriage on a set of parasols for a meaningful and memorable photo.

    Photo Credit: Innamorata Photography

  • Umbrellas

    Umbrellas

    Tell your love story with a little help from umbrellas and your BFFs.

    Photo Credit: True Photography

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Surprise your groom with a secret message before the ceremony.

    Photo Credit: Perry Vaile Photography

  • Banners

    Banners

    Show off your newly-married status with a simple banner.

    Photo Credit: Tuck & Bonté/Etsy

  • Wine Barrels

    Wine Barrels

    Getting married on a vineyard? Borrow a wine barrel for a sweet photo.

    Photo Credit: Brianna Noelle Photography

  • Balloons

    Balloons

    Gather all of your guests for a balloon release!

    Photo Credit: Diana M. Lott Photography

  • Natural Elements

    Natural Elements

    Twist a few twigs into a heart for a super easy prop you can make on the fly.

    Photo Credit: Two One Photography

  • Signs

    Signs

    Choose props that reflect your shared interests, like these cute tennis rackets.

    Photo Credit: Emma + Josh

  • Signs

    Signs

    Choose a sign that'll express your wedding-day joy.

    Photo Credit: Taylor Lord

  • Picture Frames

    Picture Frames

    Frame yourselves with this cute and easy prop.

    Photo Credit: Glessner Photography

  • Backdrops

    Backdrops

    Step into your own fairy tale with this storybook backdrop.

    Photo Credit: Jessie Holloway

  • Pop Culture-Inspired

    Pop Culture-Inspired

    Add a nod to your favorite saga with lightsabers.

    Photo Credit: Vierras Photography

  • Sparklers

    Sparklers

    Surround yourselves with a ring of fire.

    Photo Credit: Nathan Desch

  • With Your Bridal Party

    With Your Bridal Party

    Go for the extreme on a snowboard.

    Photo Credit: Will Pursell Photography

  • Cell Phones

    Cell Phones

    Capture your sweet sides and your silly sides in a single picture.

    Photo Credit: IQ Photo Studio

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50 Sweet Props You'll Want to Use in Your Wedding Photos

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April 28th

Photo Credit: Andi Diamond

Tip of the Day: If you’re not already a fitness buff and want to embark upon an exercise regime, take a few private training sessions at your local gym. Many fitness centers include a free consultation, so take advantage of it! A pro trainer can give you essential pointers on the right way to use an elliptical machine or kettle balls. They also help correct your form and posture, saving you from back, neck, or knee injuries that can put a cramp in your honeymoon plans.

Plus, check out our Four-Week Bridal Body Prep Plan!

April 27th

Photo Credit: Ella Photography

Tip of the Day: Are you planning for your marriage, not just the wedding? Couples that marry in a Catholic church are required to take a Pre-Cana class, which not only emphasizes spirituality, but also consists of exercises in problem-solving, communication, and future goals. Even if you're having a non-denominational ceremony, consider investing in the strength and health of your relationship by taking a marriage preparatory course or seminar at a local college or through a therapist.

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50 Little Details That'll Take Your Wedding to the Next Level

There’s no denying that planning your wedding is overwhelming. Between focusing on the main elements such as your venue and event logistics and being inundated with Pinterest ideas, it’s easy to forget about the little details that make your big day special. From décor details to making your guests happy and all the creative elements in between, we’ve got you covered with these budget-friendly ideas that will amp up your wedding’s wow factor.

By: Hillary Hoffower

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  • Bare Walls

    Bare Walls

    Dress up a bare wall with a sign of your affection. Whether you prefer your new initials, a cute saying or quote, or just one word, it’s sure to make a statement — both physically and emotionally. 

    Related: 50 Clever Signs Your Wedding Guests Will Love

    Photo Credit: Lauren Fair Photography

  • Bar Sign

    Bar Sign

    Make the line at the bar go more quickly with a rustic sign that provides all the drink options before guests even get to the bartender. Guests will appreciate not having to look for the bar, too!

    Related: Stylish Ways to Display Your Food & Drinks

    Photo Credit: Anna Page Photography

  • Alternate Bar

    Alternate Bar

    Are a full-on bar and bartender out of a budget? Fill up a trough with the drinks of your choice. Fun and quirky, it lends rustic charm to any backyard or barn wedding.

    Photo Credit: Shell de Mar Photography

  • Altar

    Altar

    The candid photos of you and your groom exchanging vows are ones you’ll treasure forever. With this in mind, don’t skimp on altar décor — you’ll want to make sure it’s unforgettable. Even something as simple as draping gauzy fabric over a tree in an already stunning setting can create a breathtaking effect.

    Related: 50 Gorgeous Wedding Ceremony Structures

    Photo Credit: Amy Carlston Photography

  • Aisle Runner

    Aisle Runner

    Create your own version of the red carpet — whatever that may be. This straw runner is the perfect complement to a beach or coastline wedding.

    Related: 70+ Ideas for Beach Weddings

    Photo Credit: Garrett Richardson

  • Aisle Markers

    Aisle Markers

    Tie satin ribbon on the posts of aisle chairs for an elegant look.

    Related: 25+ Gorgeous Ways to Decorate Your Chairs

    Photo Credit: Caught the Light

  • Door Trim

    Door Trim

    Amp up your church door with a swath of florals for a special touch.

    Photo Credit: Documentary Wedding Photographer Paul Underhill

  • Dessert Display

    Dessert Display

    Getting creative with your dessert display is an easy way to elicit a wow factor. Serving cupcakes? Instead of placing them in traditional tier, arrange them in the initial of your new last name.

    Photo Credit: Reese Moore Photography

  • Décor Accents

    Décor Accents

    Don’t forget about the extras that make your wedding so unique. Throw some unexpected décor into the mix, like these geometric shapes filled with succulents.

    Related: Beyond Flowers: 50 Unique Ideas for Your Centerpieces

    Photo Credit: Amy & Jordan Photography

  • Date Tips

    Date Tips

    Get creative with your guest book so guests will actually want to sign it! Ask for a marriage tip or date idea so you and your groom can enjoy more than the standard well wishes. These popsicle sticks are way more fun than your simple blank-page book.

    Related: 50 Unique Wedding Guest Book Ideas

    Photo Credit: Lora Mae Photography

  • Cocktails

    Cocktails

    Don’t leave your cocktails as is — they’re always more fun when dressed up. Add burlap umbrellas and heart-stamped stirrers for a punch of whimsy.

    Related: Signature Cocktails for Summer Weddings

    Photo Credit: Margaux Photography

  • Cocktail Tables

    Cocktail Tables

    Don’t just drape your cocktail tables in linen and call it a day; cinch it with a tie of lush greenery — or twine or fabric if you wish — to give a little pizazz to its silhouette. 

    Photo Credit: Kim Box Photography

  • Cocktail Napkins

    Cocktail Napkins

    Personalize your cocktail napkins with a cute saying or the date to add a dash of pizazz. A metallic finish always looks more luxe.

    Photo Credit: This Love of Yours Photography

  • Chandeliers

    Chandeliers

    Whether you choose one as a single statement chandelier or a handful, chandeliers add sparkle and class to any reception. On a budget? Drape a vintage wrought-iron chandelier in string lights for a unique and whimsical look.

    Related: 75 Ideas for a Rustic Wedding

    Photo Credit: Heather Hawkins Photography

  • Chair Décor

    Chair Décor

    Tie a bow of fabric around chair backs to take your chairs from ordinary to glam. Get creative with a diagonal look and off-center bow, like this olive green piece.

    Photo Credit: Archetype Studios

  • Chair Backs

    Chair Backs

    Not into bows? Run gauzy linens through the chair backs for a dreamy look.

    Photo Credit: Paula McManus Photography

  • Ceremony Chairs

    Ceremony Chairs

    Mixing and matching ceremony chairs is an original way hone your wedding style without splurging on décor. These diverse chairs make for eccentric seating and complete this industrial 19th century factory.

    Related: 6 Creative Ways to Seat Your Wedding Guests

    Photo Credit: Isabelle Selby Photography

  • Ceiling Décor

    Ceiling Décor

    The space up above needs décor just as much as the space below! Adorn your ceiling fabric, lights, greenery, or these whimsical papier-mache yarn globes. It’s a great trick to covering up any unsightly beams or tent poles.

    Related: Gorgeous Ideas for a Barn Wedding

    Photo Credit: Andria Lo

  • Candles

    Candles

    Candles are a beautiful and cost-efficient way to light up any tablescape. With such a romantic glow, you won’t need to spend a fortune on flowers for your centerpieces.

    Photo Credit: Margaux Photography

  • Cake Topper

    Cake Topper

    Bride and groom figurines are so yesterday. Opt for a cake topper that makes a statement and reflects your and your groom’s personalities, like this gold sparkle showstopper reigning in the awws with a depiction of the couple’s two dogs.

    Related: 50 Creative Wedding Cake Toppers

    Photo Credit: Aga Jones Photography

  • Cake Table

    Cake Table

    Let your cake table shine with some original décor. Swap it out for an antique desk and juxtapose it with a marquee sign to spotlight the display.

    Related: 25 Creative Ways to Show Off Your Wedding Cake

    Photo Credit: Jen Rodriguez

  • Bathroom

    Bathroom

    It’s easy to overlook the bathroom when you’re honed in on making the reception as gorgeous as can be. Put his and hers amenity baskets in the bathrooms in case guests need anything throughout the night. Mouthwash, stain removal pen, hairspray, Tylenol, and band-aids are just a few ideas to throw in there.

    Photo Credit: Something Turquoise / Created by Jessica Bishop of The Budget Savvy Bride

  • Pinspotting

    Pinspotting

    After painstakingly obsessing over your centerpieces, you don’t want to keep them in the dark. Use pinspotting to illuminate those pretty floral arrangements. 

    Related: 25 Ways to Transform Your Wedding With Lighting

    Photo Credit: JoVon Photography

  • Photobooth

    Photobooth

    Photobooths are always a good source of entertainment for guests. Is renting one out of the budget? Create an oversized polaroid for a fun and quirky cost-efficient twist. The photos will be just as fun!

    Related: 50 Cost-Cutting Wedding Swaps

    Photo Credit: Nadia Meli

  • Photobooth Props

    Photobooth Props

    Make sure to include props so those who feel awkward posing can feel more comfortable with something to hold. Plus, you’ll get more candid photos! We love these punny balloons — they’re fun and affordable.

    Related: 50 Sweet Props You'll Want to Use in Your Wedding Photos

    Photo Credit: Mike Arick Photography

  • Outdoor Relief

    Outdoor Relief

    When throwing an outdoor wedding, it’s easy to only focus on a contingency plan in the event of bad weather and forget about Mother Nature’s other downside — bugs and the like. Create a relief station armed with bug spray, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer so your guests can enjoy your big day.

    Related: 100 Ideas for Summer Weddings

    Photo Credit: Ann-Kathrin Koch Photography

  • Menus

    Menus

    Forgo the price of paper and list the night’s fare on a sign for a bit of charm.

    Photo Credit: Leigh Fabozi

  • Linens

    Linens

    Sequin tablecloths are a quick and affordable upgrade from your average linens to give your reception a luxe look on a budget. Their shimmer and glimmer is both glam and chic.

    Related: 50 Dazzling Ways to Add Sparkle to Your Wedding Reception

    Photo Credit: Mango Studios

  • Kids

    Kids' Table

    Don’t forget about the little ones! Leave crayons and a coloring book at their table so they can stay entertained.

    Related: 100 Times Kids Stole the Show at a Wedding

    Photo Credit: Natalie Watson

  • Hashtag

    Hashtag

    You spent months brainstorming a clever hashtag — make sure people use it! Create a clever sign to encourage your guests to snap and post the night away.

    Related: How to Choose Your Wedding Hashtag

    Photo Credit: Olive Photography

  • Hanky Box

    Hanky Box

    You won’t be the only one crying at your wedding; don’t forget about your guests’ tears of joy, too. A box of delicately embroidered colorful hankies adds a quirky and charming element to your wedding — one that your guests will certainly appreciate.

    Photo Credit: Paper Antler

  • Guest Programs

    Guest Programs

    Dual-purpose guest programs are the way to go — that piece of paper gets more of your money’s worth if it serves another function! These programs feature popsicle stick handles, perfect for guests to use as a fan when it gets too hot at an outdoor ceremony.

    Related: 15+ Creative Wedding Program Ideas

    Photo Credit: Mandy Busby Creative

  • Escort Cards

    Escort Cards

    Escort cards don’t have to be limited with paper. Write them on something else entirely or pair with them with a fun accessory. These gold spray painted animal figurines are fun and playful.

    Photo Credit: Carmen Holt

  • Escort Card Display

    Escort Card Display

    Don’t relegate your escort cards to the table — show them off in a creative display! These pretty in pink ribbon streamers are whimsically beautiful.

    Related: 35 Cool Ways to Display Your Escort Cards

    Photo Credit: Margaux Photography

  • Entrance

    Entrance

    Many brides focus on the altar and often forget about their grand entrance. A vintage door at the foot of the ceremony is a whimsical touch and symbolizes a welcome to all guests.

    Related: 40 Ways to Decorate Your Ceremony Aisle

    Photo Credit: John Schnack Photography

  • Edibles

    Edibles

    Hand-painted treats liven up an average plate of hors d'oeuvres or dessert delectables. These “fruity” pastel macarons scream springtime fever.

    Related: 25 Delicious Wedding Cake Alternatives

    Photo Credit: Amy & Jordan Photography

  • Uplighting

    Uplighting

    Uplighting is a budget-friendly way to immediately transform a room’s ambiance. An orange glow bathes this reception in a romantic light.

    Photo Credit: JoVon Photography

  • Unique Elements

    Unique Elements

    It’s the quirky and the unique that truly lends your day a touch of your own personality. Add surprising elements to give your wedding some flair. We love this rustic bell to call for the newlyweds to kiss.

    Photo Credit: Amanda Adams Photography

  • Table Top

    Table Top

    Cover your tables with mirrors for a dazzling effect and to save costs on linens.

    Related: 50 Gorgeous Ways to Dress Up Your Reception Tables

    Photo Credit: Esther Sun Photography

  • Table Settings

    Table Settings

    A table setting can consist of much more than dinnerware and linens. Spruce them up with accents, such as a pale blush ribbon and trim of greenery, for an extra touch.

    Photo Credit: Jessica Gold Photography, LLC

  • Table Numbers

    Table Numbers

    Personalize your table numbers with a photo of you and the groom at each table. Amp up the personalization even more by corresponding the number with a fun fact about the two of you.

    Related: 50 Memorable Ideas for Your Table Numbers

    Photo Credit: Katch Studios

  • Table Napkins

    Table Napkins

    Get creative with your napkin settings. A simple folding like this napkin pocket makes all the difference — and can hold your menu, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

    Photo Credit: Nancy Ray Photography

  • Sweetheart Chairs

    Sweetheart Chairs

    Don your sweetheart chairs with charming Mr. and Mrs. Signs.

    Related: 25 Pretty Head Table Ideas: From Big Traditional to Intimate Sweetheart

    Photo Credit: Amanda Adams Photography

  • Backdrop

    Backdrop

    String lighting doesn’t need to be confined to the ceilings — it twinkles just as brightly cascading down the wall as a backdrop, too.

    Photo Credit: D’amor Photography

  • Signature Drinks

    Signature Drinks

    If you’re trying to avoid paying for an open bar, consider having his and her cocktails that embody your tastes and personalities instead. Your guests will still get the liquor while you can save money and add a personal element to the wedding.

    Related: Find a Signature Cocktail That Matches Your Color Scheme

    Photo Credit: Renee Sprink Photography

  • Sendoff

    Sendoff

    Gone are the traditions of throwing confetti or rice as the couple makes their escape. Sparklers have a much bigger wow factor — and make for amazing photos.

    Related: 15 Spectacular Ideas For Your Wedding Sendoff

    Photo Credit: David Strauss

  • Selfie Station

    Selfie Station

    Forgo the guest signings altogether and opt for a visual guest book. Leave a polaroid camera at the table so your guests can take a selfie as proof of their attendance and have them pin it up for a fun décor display. 

    Photo Credit: En Route Photography

  • Seating Chart

    Seating Chart

    Skip the escort cards altogether and opt for a seating chart as a cheaper alternative — vintage window panes will do the trick!

    Related: 50 Eye-Catching Seating Charts

    Photo Credit: Anne de Lores Photography

  • Pool Décor

    Pool Décor

    Does your reception venue have a pool? Don’t leave it empty. Floating letters make a splash.

    Related: 50 Over-the-Top Wedding Ideas We Can't Help But Love

    Photo Credit: Mike Arick Photography

  • Place Cards

    Place Cards

    Who said place cards had to be on paper? Cut the costs and write them in beautiful calligraphy on a tropical leaf to carry out your wedding theme. Bonus points if you swap placemats out for monster leaves as plate chargers.

    Related: 50 Unexpected Ways to Decorate with Greenery

    Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography

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50 Little Details That'll Take Your Wedding to the Next Level

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Gorgeous Athleisure-Inspired Wedding Gowns

The athleisure trend (clothing that can double as exercise gear or a stylish everyday outfit) that's been dominating streetwear is having a ripple effect in the world of weddings as well. We spotted sportier necklines, notice-me straps, and racerbacks at Bridal Fashion Week this season. Here, beautiful looks for the bride who lives in her yoga pants.

By: Stefania Sainato

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Gorgeous Athleisure-Inspired Wedding Gowns

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