Fun ways to make your wedding unique!

Looking for fun & creative ways to spruce up your wedding? Here are a few ideas from an offbeat wedding photographer.... ME! 

1. Polaroid Wedding Album.  Ok, now I know this is going to sound weird coming from a wedding photographer, but it was an idea that I had for my own wedding (but didn't get to do!) and I happen to think its a great one! So here it is:  Set up a station that is visible to guests as they arrive at your reception. Put a cloth or fabric up as a "backdrop", and have a helper be your "photographer". Give them a Polaroid camera with stacks and stacks of film! (I'm talking, old school Polaroids with less than perfect quality photos). You may also need a light set up, if so you can use a household light or clip on lamp from home depot for $5. As each guest arrives, they go to the station and have a fun (or serious) Polaroid taken. While the photo is developing, have the guest sign the bottom with a personal message to the couple or simply their names if they prefer. After the wedding, take all of these awesome photos and create an album. It can work as your wedding guest book or an awesome album!!!!  Now if you have a little extra money here, you might want to consider each guest having TWO photos taken of themselves. The first for your album, and the second (unsigned) photo, you can use to put in their thank you cards. It'd be a fun photo of themselves on your special day. That part is totally optional. Note: I don't recommend this taking the place of a professional photographer for the rest of your wedding.
2. Photobooths.  Now look, not everyone can afford to rent a photobooth so the idea above might be a fun replacement, but lets face it. Photobooths are fun! And your guests are going to love it!!! 
3. DIY Decor.  If you're crafty, there are several sites that can give you ideas on how and what to make yourself. However, if you are like me, and you lack that crafty part but still want a DIY feel, try checking out www.etsy.com and see what people are making and selling. You can usually get some great prices on awesome decorations and even invitations! 
4. Karaoke.  It takes a brave soul to go through with this, but if you are up for it, having karaoke at your wedding reception is a lot of fun and not nearly as expensive as you might  think! Just keep your audience in mind, if you are going to have a lot of outgoing people at your receptionist, this will totally work. If you are having more reserved, quiet guests, this will be a total flop.
5. Fun entrance songs. If I have to hear "who let the dogs out" one more time.... Ok but seriously, the entrance songs should express you as a couple. Your personal interests. I've heard everything from the Simpsons to Star Wars theme songs. Just make it fun. Make it you! 
6. Make your music YOU. Just like I mentioned above, the music should express who you are as a couple. If you are a young, fun, outgoing, hip couple. Maybe you should reconsider the old classics. Of course, keep your guests in mind and maybe don't go to crazy, but play music you'd like to hear. 
7. Theme Weddings. This is another bold choice for a couple, but it can be really cool if its executed properly. It can be anything from a holiday themed wedding, to a mascaraed. If your guests are cool enough to participate, I say, go for it! 
8. Have a drink on me/us. Its not uncommon to see personalized shot glasses as a wedding souvenir, but if you are going to do it, maybe you could have some fun with it. Maybe play AC/DC "have a drink on me" and have everyone take a shot with you. Whatever you do, make it fun! 
9. Carriage Ride Entrance. How romantic would it be to have all of your guests see you make an entrance on a horse drawn carriage? If you're getting married in the City, it won't be hard!
10. Sparklers. I've seen sparklers used in a few ways. My favorite is always, instead of rice/bubbles/petals, have your guests hold up sparklers as you make your exit. So pretty!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Remember, no matter what you do, just follow my two biggest pieces of advise: Make it YOU, and have fun!