Adding some fun . . .

Having fun at a wedding? It almost goes without saying! There are so many fun things to do at a reception, from dancing, to toasts, to cutting the cake or tossing a garter. Choreographed dances by the bridal party to kick off the reception are becoming all the rage!

But what about a little fun or laughter in the ceremony? You might remember the YouTube video of the bridal party dancing down the aisle that went viral. That was certainly one way to add fun to the ceremony, and I, for one, loved it!

But it’s actually very difficult to infuse fun in a ceremony, which is, in its nature, a solemn and serious ritual. Everyone is on their best behavior and emotions are flowing. However, I do believe it is possible to add some joy and laughter into a wedding, when it’s appropriate, and where it’s appropriate, that is.

Rings, and ring pops!

Many couples I’ve worked with have expressed a desire to have the ceremony contain some elements of laughter or humor. The best way I have found to achieve this is to discover what it is that really makes the couple tick. Sometimes I find sharing a cute story about them (with their complete approval that is) will bring knowing laughter and smiles. It might be about a proposal that didn’t go quite as planned, for example. There are some really sweet and humorous readings and poems that can be incorporated.

And it’s always a joy to include the pets!!!

This weekend I officiated for a delightful couple. The bride had two children. I created a ceremony in which vows were said to the children and they were thanked for opening their hearts to this new relationship and the changes in the family. The children also promised to try to do their best for the new family. It was so special and everyone loved it! But here’s the fun part. After I pronounced them as husband and wife, the groom called the children forward and gave them ‘ring pops’. I actually didn’t know what ‘ring pops’ were (haven’t been around little kids in a while, I guess!) but when I saw them I just loved it. It was just so cute and everyone laughed and truly enjoyed it, especially the kids! It was just perfect.

yummy ?

Another fun element in a wedding I performed had a mariachi band. The bridal party had chipped in and hired the band to surprise the couple. The band came in playing for the recessional and led everyone from the ceremony site and into the tent for the party. It was fabulous – especially as they feel in love on vacation in Mexico and apparently they love mariachi music.

The band led everyone into the ceremony tent!

It is wonderful to see all the guests not only cry during the vows, but smiling and really enjoying this happy occasion. A good ceremony always reminds me of that classic statement for a good movie review: “I laughed, I cried!”

Does it get any cuter than this?