Experiential weddings are at the height of popularity in the wedding industry right now. This should come as no surprise to event professionals. Over the years, engaged couples have transformed the industry into one that is fully customized and offers a unique and personal experience for each and every couple, regardless of how they envision their special day.
With this in mind, we have seen more weddings that choose to involve guests in the actual proceedings, as opposed to inviting guests simply as witnesses to the ceremony. For example, we have had couples that choose to pass their wedding bands around the ceremony so each guest gets a chance to touch them and share their blessings in the moment. I have also had destination wedding clients who have opted to have everybody walk down the aisle with them as a way to further include everyone.
These unique ways of personalizing a wedding can transform a standard cookie cutter wedding into the most meaningful day of a couple’s lives together. However, as event professionals, it is important for us to guide our clients in the right direction and help them decide on the experiences that are the best fit for them.
“Once you get to know your couple better, look at the things they value most in life and how they align with their priorities for their wedding day.”
Get personal
When it comes to picking out the right experiences, it truly depends on the client, their preferences, and their overall wedding vision. The only way to really get an idea of their wedding vision, of course, is simply to get to know them on a personal level! Before any planning or design happens, I have a 17-page intake form that goes beyond favorite colors and seasons, but also asks questions like, “What is your idea of a perfect New Year’s Eve?” It does not matter how you do it; all that matters is that you can get a full understanding of who they are as individuals, as well as a couple.
Once you get to know your couple better, look at the things they value most in life and how they align with their priorities for their wedding day. Are they a couple that prides themselves on knowing the best foods in major cities? Consider bringing in an interactive food station for everyone to enjoy! Do they value their families more than anything? Ask them if they would like to have a special moment during the reception to honor their loved ones. Do they have a soft spot for all things vintage? Try out a full-on 1920s themed wedding, where everyone is asked to dress in fitting attire! (We have done this and can vouch that it is amazing.)
While every couple is different and unique in their own ways, I guarantee that there is a perfect experience for everyone once you dig deep enough. Get to know them on a personal level and it will come naturally!
Kim Sayatovic is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Belladeux Event Design, a full service wedding and event design firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana.
