Wedding themes aren’t necessary, but they can definitely set your wedding apart from the rest. There’s a lot to consider before pulling off a themed wedding, so here are some questions to consider and a list of pros and cons to help guide you toward taking your first step into planning.
If you’re considering having a wedding theme, first ask yourself:
1. Is your partner on board with this idea too?
2. Do you both love the theme?
3. Have you thought if the theme will age gracefully (and do you really care if it doesn’t?)
4. Are you willing to put in the effort (and money) to pull off a themed wedding?
If you answer “yes” to all of the above, you’re in good shape to start planning your themed wedding. Now let’s go over the good, the bad, and the potentially tacky.
The Pros
Create A Unique Atmosphere
A wedding theme can convey a vibe that’s reflective of you both as a couple. It can be as general as “rustic boho” or as dramatic as a Lord of the Rings cosplay wedding. Either way, your theme can create an unforgettable night for your guests. Just make sure you’re willing to commit to the theme you choose.
Photo Credit: AGI Studio
Simplify Planning
Having to stick to a theme will narrow down the decisions you need to make, freeing you from the anxiety of having to choose from endless options. By having a solid place to start with your theme in place, your vendors will have a better understanding of what you’re looking for on your big day!
Get Creative
A wedding theme can give you the opportunity to be extremely creative, and it can also make the wedding planning process more fun. Everything from the decor to the attire to the cake can be more unique and exciting with a themed wedding, and you will definitely be giving your guests a memorable experience that they will remember forever (especially if they have to dress accordingly or participate in some other way).
Photo Credit: AGI Studio
The Cons
Expenses Can Add Up
You’ll find that certain wedding themes will rack up the bill a lot higher than others. Certain decor, props, and services can be more expensive. For example, if you’re having a fantasy-themed wedding, you’ll likely find that hiring a horse-drawn carriage is more expensive than a basic stretch limo.
However, some themes are much cheaper than others – for example, DIY items fit in perfectly with rustic-themed weddings and are very cost-effective.
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Uncooperative Guests
You know your guests, so be honest with yourself: Are they going to be excited by possibly adhering to a strict dress code if you opt to go for a 1950’s themed wedding? It won’t take you long to realize Aunt Margaret won’t be having that. If you see a dress code being an issue with your guests, it might make the most sense to scrap it.
Tough To Get Right
Have you ever seen those “what I asked for/what I got” memes? You don’t want your wedding to become one of those. If your theme is too elaborate, you run the risk of it turning out…dare I say it, tacky. Make sure you edit yourself when planning your themed wedding – not every single facet needs to abide by the theme or be taken super literally. However, if over the top is your thing, be as campy as you want to be!
Hosting a themed wedding is a personal decision, but it very well may be right for you. Remember that your wedding day is about you and your partner, so make sure you’re both well-aligned on how you want your special day to turn out.
