Article by Johanna Osborne

When planning a wedding everyone wants the same thing – a great day, precious moments and special memories. We often get asked for ideas on how to add that certain “je ne sais quoi” to give your wedding the veritable icing on the cake. But how to achieve this? It’s all in the finer details and finishing touches. Here we show you how to make your wedding stand out as something just a little different with the smallest of efforts, but the biggest impact.

1. Bubbles! Not just for pre-schoolers, bubbles are a fun, glamorous and totally easy way to add something extra! You could go as far as to give each guest a small bottle of bubbles to blow – with the bride and groom’s name on the outside for added effect if desired. Not only will it keep your guests laughing, bubbles look totally magnificent in photos.
 

 
2. Confetti! Once again something so simple has the potential to create an amazing effect. And if it’s biodegradable then really there shouldn’t be too much of a problem. Another alternative are rose petals – but make sure these are white, as red can stain your pretty white gown.
 
3. Ice ice baby! An ice sculpture could be quite the talking point for your guests and done right, has the potential to really glamify a reception
 
4. Up, Up and away! Balloons are a gorgeous decorating item and great prop for photos. We love the gorgeous oversized balloons available now from Hiremaster, so cute.
 
5. Sign your name! A guest book gives your guests the chance to make their mark and leave a special message for the bride and groom. Another favourite – short video taped messages during the course of the evening. Makes for hilarious viewing later, and gives the bride and groom some more memories to cherish.
 

 
6. Sweetheart! Candy stations are all the rage at the moment. After dessert is done and dusted, what’s nicer than something else to nibble on?! Treat your guests to gorgeous delights in bright colours that bring out their inner child.
 
7. I scream! If candy isn’t your thing, ice cream is bound to be. How about serving little cones of gorgeous ice creams later in the evening? Trust us, your guests will be grateful for the nightcap. There are some great ways of doing this – just ask Trish at Simply Foods!

8. Baby one more time! Nothing is more touching than hearing a young voice recite a gorgeous poem. How about getting one of your nieces, nephews or baby cousins to read a love poem in the church or reception? It will give you 10/10 for the cute factor.

9. Music! Nothing beats a live musician – whether it’s a violin or harp in the church, a pianist during dinner or a live band during the evening. Music can completely transform the vibe and mood of your celebrations. Ambience is everything.
 
10. Say Cheese. Photo-booths are the hottest activity to have at your wedding. Fantastic entertainment for the guests and cherish memories to keep forever! We are so lucky to 3 great companies in Wellington for you to choose from.