Aloha & Goodnight

For several reasons, Stephen and I decided to skip a traditional grand exit at the end of our reception. For one thing, we planned to be the last ones left, enjoying every final second of the celebration we had planned. Plus, with all of the venue’s restrictions against sparklers, noisemakers, and other potentially messy or loud options, we knew we’d be better off coming up with a unique plan of our own.

And that we did. After the final dances of the evening had played out and our guests were gathering their things to leave, we had one final surprise for them, and one last opportunity for them to wish us well as we prepared to head off on our Hawaiian honeymoon adventure. At the DJ’s announcement, best man Brian and maid of honor Kellie slipped colorful leis over our heads, and the remaining guests gathered around as we danced to Elvis’ “Blue Hawaii” with our engagement slideshow playing onscreen in the background.

Since our photographer and videographer had already left for the night, our guests were kind enough to snap a couple shots of us sharing these final moments of our party, and to then wish us “bon voyage” as we at last headed out the door. Though there was no shower of streamers or glow of fireworks, plus no long tunnel of guests to run through, I couldn’t have been happier with the way this ending worked out.

What are your plans for a grand exit or special last dance?

(Photo Credits: Personal Library)

The Wedding Exit: Saying Aloha!

Even as our wedding day draws to a close, the fun will be far from over, since the very next morning, Stephen and I will jet off to Hawaii to start our weeklong honeymoon cruise! And what better way to get into the Hawaiian spirit than by using fun, colorful leis for our big sendoff?

Though we considered what feels like practically every exit option under the sun, none seemed as fitting or fun as this one. So, as Elvis’ “Blue Hawaii” plays in the background, we’ll make our way down the receiving line, saying farewell to our guests while they place the classic floral chains around our necks.

In addition to making for some silly photo ops, especially as we reach the end of the line completely loaded down with leis, these are a super inexpensive party store buy. I can’t wait to say aloha to everyone!

How will your guests send you off in style?

(Photo Credit: Google Images)

The Wedding Exit: It’s a Tossup

From the very beginning, both our church and golf club reception site made it clear that tossed rose petals, which I always envisioned as being part of my wedding day, are out of the question.

Though I’m still a little disappointed, their refusal has given me a reason to research plenty of other fun ideas, either to take place right after the ceremony or at the end of the night. Here, some of the ideas we’ve tossed around, a few of which we’ve since found out are also not allowed.

Bubbles…

Butterflies…

Doves…

Sparklers…

Streamers…

Poppers…

Noisemakers…

Tambourines…

So, which of these options are we going with? None of them! Check back tomorrow for details about what we’re doing that will switch things up, but in the meantime, I’d love to hear your ideas!

(Photo Credits: Google Images)