10 Ways to Personalize Your Wedding

Photo by: Kristen Strecker

1. Put table numbers in snow globes.
— Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event in Chicago

2. Decorate the newlyweds' chairs with real flowers and vines embroidered with the couple's initials.
—Tony Schubert of Event Eleven

3. Play up a garden setting by interspersing urn planters and a fountain among chairs.
— Marianne Weiman-Nelson of Special Occasions in L.A

4. Instead of assigning seating, surround the dance floor with a lounge-like mix of banquettes and sofas to encourage lively conversation.
— florist and event designer Luis Collazo of Lotus in N.Y.C.

5. For a beach wedding, opt for centerpieces that incorporate driftwood and seashells and, at each place setting, a bottle containing a copy of part of the proposal.
—Emma Corrie of Events Unusual in Barbados

6. Cocktail hour is a great time to serve food inspired by your heritage. Minced-beef-and-tofu patties and scallion pancakes are delicious Korean options.
—N.Y.C. planner Susan Holland

7. Have fun with your food. Consider serving s'more toasted on small hibachis.
— Lulu Powers, an L.A. caterer and planner

8. Seek out meaningful favors, like small bags of your favorite house blend if you and your mate met at a coffeehouse.
—Karen Clark of Something Borrowed, Something Blue in Raleigh, N.C.

9. Instead of combining traditions, party twice with celebrations honoring both cultures.
—Carol Marino of A Perfect Wedding in Fairfax, Va.

10. If you or your groom already have children, honor your blended family by inviting the kids to join in lighting the unity candle.
—Randi Lesnick of Hospitality Consultants in Nashville