What to Avoid When Planning a 2017 Wedding

Published: 2017.02.01

Every year, hundreds (if not thousands) of couples get married for the first time—and along with them, their mothers, fathers, siblings, and best friends "experience" the wedding planning process too.

Some families give the couple full freedom to create their dream wedding, while others heavily influence decisions, dictating what must or must not be included.

For couples who opt for wedding planning services, we help them stay on trend and avoid things that have been done a thousand times before.

We’re here to make sure your wedding doesn’t look "so yesterday"—especially for guests who have attended multiple weddings in recent years and are tired of the same ideas (instant photo souvenirs, honey jars as gifts, etc.).

Of course, some traditions still make sense—like gifting honey if your family runs a beekeeping business—but our goal in this article is to help 2017 couples be more creative in their wedding choices.

Outdated Trends & What to Do Instead

Painting a Picture for the Couple / Writing a Guestbook Alternative: Most couples already have a painted portrait or never read their guestbook again. Instead, consider:

• A "Recipe Book" for a Happy Marriage, where guests write their advice

• A "Travel Bucket List" – guests choose a country the couple should visit and explain why
  

Formal Gift-Giving Ceremony & Posed Photos with Each Guest Alternative: Instead of long, staged photos with each guest, hire multiple photographers who capture:

• Candid shots with guests at the cocktail bar or dance floor

• A designated gift table with a decorative "gift throne" that guests cannot miss
  

Sending Thank-You Notes After the Wedding Alternative:

Instead of sending cards months later, plan this before the wedding:

• Print thank-you postcards in advance

• Send them a few days before the wedding so guests receive them right after the event

• Imagine their surprise and happiness when they return home to find your thoughtful note!
  

Honey Jars or Sugared Almonds as Wedding Favors Alternative: These gifts have been used too often. Instead, consider:

• Revitalizing or relaxing tea blends with fun notes:

  
  

  "For a post-wedding refresh – thank you for celebrating with us!"

• Small coffee bean bags labeled:

  
  

  "For a bright morning after the party!"

• Write a personalized message for each guest to make it special
  

Traditional Outdoor Wedding Party PhotosAlternative:

Large group photos in fields, cities, or jumping in the air have become overused. Instead, try:

• "First Look" Photoshoot – This happens before the ceremony, capturing the couple’s authentic emotions when they see each other for the first time

• This approach ensures fresh, natural, and emotional photos before the ceremony fatigue sets in
  

Cupcake Wedding CakesAlternative:

While cupcake towers were once trendy, modern weddings favor elegant cakes:

• "Naked" cakes – a minimalist, natural look

• Large, artistic, single-tier cakes with intricate designs

• If you still want something playful, mini doughnuts are a great option!
  

Source: www.apievestuves.lt

Tags: 2017 Weddings, 2018 Weddings, Wedding Estate, Wedding Planning Tips, Wedding Menu, Wedding Planning