50+ Creative Ways to Personalize Your Wedding

Make your wedding day stand out with these inspiring ideas.

The creative force behind EmmalineBride.com, a wedding website that celebrates the handmade and homemade approach, shares some of her craftiest ideas and tips.

It Starts With Your Theme

Seasons can provide plenty of inspiration, from color schemes to flowers. A winter wedding might include candlelit lanterns, masses of evergreen wreaths and a roaring fire in the reception hall. A backyard ceremony, a bouquet of wildflowers and a tented reception are hallmarks of a perfect summer fête.

Hobbies and shared interests are another jumping-off point. If you’re foodies, why not plan a wedding reception catered by a favorite restaurant with a menu of your must-have entrées? On your invitation’s reply card, include an area for guests to select a preferred dessert option, like “cake” or “pie.”

Other themes to consider: outdoor activities like cycling — a tandem bike can serve as your signature image — camping (DIY trail-mix station, anyone?). “A friend who loves to kayak decided to have her guests sign an oar instead of using a traditional guest book,” Emma says. “Afterwards, she varnished the oar to preserve the signatures, and it’s now displayed in her home.”

Printed Matters

A save-the-date is not mandatory, but it’s a fun way to share your news with guests. “One of my favorite designs features a library card that asks guests, ever so sweetly, ‘May we borrow you?’ ” says Emma.

library themed save the date
Photo Credit: Sellers Publishing, Inc.

Wouldn’t it be lovely to know that little patches of wildflowers or herbs were springing up in your honor? A seed packet save the date can do just that, tying into a garden wedding theme. Your invitation helps set the tone and theme of your wedding so be sure it follows suit appropriately.

A fun informal invitation can be made using vintage handkerchiefs. How about wrapping a pretty hankie around each? Or dressing up a simple invitation with embellishments like raffia, burlap or natural twine? You can use a craft-paper punch to add edging details — like eyelets — around invitation borders.

Next: Bouquets and Ceremony Ideas ►

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