15 Inspired Ideas for your Wedding

3. Homemade Wedding Favors

Creating your own favors may seem prohibitively time-consuming but can offer a personal touch that attendees really appreciate. Try making bars of soap with a signature fragrance and hand-lettered labels. For those who knit or crochet, making a collection of coasters could delight guests while helping you de-stress. Personalized cookies with initials, names or a wedding date can be made well in advance and kept in the freezer.

4. Color of the Year

Pantone Color Institute, the graphic design company used by artists, designers, manufacturers and marketers, has named Viva Magenta the color of the year. Infuse this bold pink hue into your rehearsal dinner frock, add it to a playful accessory or designate it as the color theme for your bridal party.

5. Book a Stylist

Consider adding a stylist to your wedding dream team. From advice on wardrobe selections to day-of portrait services, a stylist can ensure a wedding couple and their attendants are chic, comfortable and confident. A stylist’s advice on the fabric, cut and design of some of the most expensive clothing you may ever purchase could prove very valuable.

6. Reception Remix

Couples are personalizing their post-ceremony celebrations with a mix of live entertainment. Karaoke has gotten popular as a way to not only entertain the group, but also act as an icebreaker so families and friends can really get to know each other. Lawn games like bocce and cornhole contribute to the festive atmosphere.

7. Canned Cocktails

Pop the top on a single-serve drink and skip the line at the bar. Margaritas, mai tais or mimosas: premixed beverages are often made with real fruit juices, no added sugar and high-quality liquors. Plus, cans are a good choice for beach weddings that don’t allow glass.

8. Choose an Unforgettable Honeymoon Destination

For this milestone event, many couples are taking the opportunity to mark their union with a bucket-list vacation. Plan your romantic escape to an idyllic retreat in Greece, a jungle lodge in Belize or reserve two weeks to dive the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Experienced travel advisors have access to special “value adds” for honeymooners that will elevate your trip.