All traditions have to start somewhere. Today’s brides are busy creating their versions of “new” traditions. Our staff of experienced consultants can help you find or create the tradition that expresses your individual thoughts and preferences. We have a big file of successful ideas and very creative staff members.  

• One of our favorite ideas worked for a bride who was marrying for the 2nd time. Both she and her fiancé had children and grandchildren from previous marriages. The combined total was too large to include everyone in the ceremony. Trying to figure out who should be in the wedding party was impossible. The solution? The bride walked down the aisle by herself carrying an empty basket. Her trip down the aisle took her past every child and grandchild from both sides and each of them held a flower that they put in her basket. She reached her groom at the altar steps with a basket filled not just with flowers but love from everyone in their new combined family. Great Idea. 
• One bride we know had formal traditional wedding photographs done before the ceremony, but she also arranged for an artist friend to attend and sketch various scenes from the ceremony and reception. Simple pen and ink versions of her wedding added a beautiful dimension (plus gave reception guests something fun to watch).
• A recent bride, who is an active environmentalist, chose as favors for her wedding, miniature seedlings obtained from the state forestry department. Each seedling was planted in a paper cup the color of the wedding theme and tied with a raffia bow. The seedlings – along with a thank you note and planting instructions, were put at each place setting as wedding favors. The couple estimated that over 200 new trees were planted in their honor. 
• Couples with strong ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to incorporate those traditions into their own weddings. In addition, toasts to the new couple should be prepared in the languages of their origins whenever possible. If no one in the family can still speak the original language, contact a local university for help with translations. Serving some ethnic foods, planning some ethnic décor and incorporating some of the traditions in the ceremony can be powerful reminders of one’s history.

Happy Planning…Kay