Ditch The Cookie Cutter: Here Are Our 10 Favorite Non-Traditional Wedding Ideas

Who says your wedding has to follow the rulebook? If the thought of a traditional ballroom reception, tiered white cake, or standard first dance makes you yawn, it’s time to shake things up. 

A non-traditional wedding is all about doing things your way, whether that means flipping the timeline, ditching the usual wedding elements, or throwing an epic party that feels more like you.

Here are 10 of our favorite ways to break the mold and make your wedding stand out.

1. Get Married On A Monday 

Weekday weddings are the ultimate power move. Not only do you get your dream venue at a better rate, but you also extend the party vibes all week long. Bonus: Your guests will love turning your wedding into a long weekend getaway.

2. Make It A Surprise

Imagine inviting your guests to what they think is an engagement party—only for them to realize they’re actually at your wedding! Keep key vendors and besties in the loop, but let the big reveal be a moment they’ll never forget.

3. Brunch It

Who says weddings have to be a dinner affair? Host a brunch wedding with a build-your-own mimosa bar, a waffle station, or a cereal bar inspired by where you met (college cafeteria love story, anyone?). Morning weddings = built-in golden hour lighting, too.

4. Make It An Adventure

Outdoorsy couples, this one’s for you. Exchange vows on a mountaintop, in the middle of the desert, or at your favorite campsite. Whether you’re a skier, hiker, or #vanlife dreamer, take your wedding to a place that fuels your adventurous spirit.

5. Skip The Ballroom

Instead of a hotel ballroom, book a spot that actually means something to you, like the cozy restaurant where you got engaged, the modern art museum from your second date, or a rooftop with a view that takes your breath away.

6. Invite Nobody (Or Almost Nobody)

Eloping is the ultimate stress-free, all-about-you wedding experience. Picture this: just the two of you, a breathtaking backdrop, and vows spoken in total peace. Okay, maybe bring a witness (or five), but trust us, there’s magic in keeping it intimate.

7. Book Unexpected Entertainment

Want to truly wow your guests? Bring in surprise entertainment like a drag queen host, belly dancers, or—yes—even a mermaid (we’ve booked one, and yes, it was iconic). Whatever your vibe, go for something unexpected and unforgettable.

8. Flash Tattoo Station (Like Actually For Real)

Nothing says wedding memories like ink. We’ve seen entire bridal parties get matching tattoos before walking down the aisle, and honestly? It’s the coolest. Whether it’s your wedding date, initials, or a tiny lightning bolt for the thrill of it, do it.

9. Get Ready Together

Not for everyone, but for some couples, getting ready together before the ceremony makes for the most intimate and beautiful wedding morning. It’s a sweet way to calm nerves, share a quiet moment, and soak in the day before the whirlwind begins.

10. Incorporate Your Date Nights

Your wedding should feel so you, so why not weave in your favorite date night traditions? We once had a couple whose go-to date was a pinball arcade. Naturally, we built Sullivan’s Arcade at their reception, complete with neon signs and vintage pinball machines, all set in the Colorado mountains. How special and one-of-a-kind is that?

It’s your wedding, make your own rules!

The best weddings are the ones that feel true to you. 

If a traditional wedding doesn’t fit your vibe, don’t be afraid to break the mold. 

And if you want expert help pulling off a wedding that’s as unique as your love story? Work with a planner who gets it.

Ready to make your dream non-traditional wedding happen? Let’s create something epic together.