Style Your Aisle

Ideas & Inspiration

Style Your Aisle

The wedding ceremony is no longer a 15-minute speed bump on the way to a great reception. Instead, a stylish ceremony is a memorable event all its own. Make it about you as a couple rather than outdated ideals, for the perfect beginning to a wonderful life together.

To create a memorable ceremony, consider the specifics: things, sights, sounds and scents that mean something to both of you; dig deep and do some brainstorming. What do you like to do together? Where was your first date? How did he propose? What are your passions—sports, traveling, art? Then think about how you can incorporate these ideas into your ceremony.

BEFORE THE VOWS
Up the style ante during pre-ceremony down time by entertaining guests with music that reflects your personal taste. Also, consider the weather. If it’s going to be hot and sunny, provide guests with colorful umbrellas for a little shade. (These make for fun photos, too.) For cool weather, provide pashminas for the women. Such thoughtful touches are always appreciated and are a great alternative to favors. For beverages, instead of offering plain water, ask your venue coordinator if lemonade or tea is an option. Or add an extra burst of color and serve non-alcoholic drinks like Jones Soda; the bottles can be personalized and come in a variety of shades.

Programs deserve special attention, too. Not only are they more informative and personal than ever, including heartfelt messages to individuals, they no longer need to be pristine (i.e., boring and predictable) white. Programs with color and texture add panache to the chicest aisles and set the tone for the ceremony.

DECOR THAT DAZZLES   
During the ceremony, give the folks a show, or at least some eye candy! You can maintain a traditional feel while including fun elements that represent you both. If your location allows an aisle runner, go for it. Runners transform the space with color and flair; for a super-stylish aisle, choose a hand-painted runner. Rose petals, although nothing new to the wedding aisle, can be used in a fresh new way in a structured design. Ask your florist to arrange the petals to mimic your monogram or even create a simple motif. When used on the aisle, altar or chuppah space, you’ll achieve quite a dramatic effect.

If you have flexibility with seating, create a ceremony in the round. All your guests will enjoy prime seating and you will love the cozy effect. Want to push the envelope a bit more? Multiply your style factor with lounge furniture instead of folding chairs.
   
FINAL TOUCHES
When planning your ceremony’s overall aesthetic, don’t overlook your bridal party attire. The maids’ dresses can add a pop of color or create a sophisticated look with subtle and subdued tones.

For music, ask your musicians to play instrumental versions of current hits. Was your first date at a Coldplay or Kenny Chesney concert? Walk down the aisle to one of their songs—you’ll be surprised how “wedding-like” it sounds played by a string quartet!

If it’s agreeable to your church or officiant, consider mixing your readings to represent your past as well as your faith by reading a passage from your favorite children’s book, a favorite poem or song lyrics. The options are endless! Just make sure to print the lyrics in your program so that guests can follow along. 

Keep up with all the latest ideas, products and services on arizonabridemag.com to make your wedding a true standout. Make the day a reflection of you—that’s always in style! 

Victoria Canada is the owner of Victoria Canada Weddings and Events and co-owner of Bright Event Gallery with Kelly Gill.

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