Unique Wedding Ideas

By Ann Daniels


The demand for more modern weddings is understandable, given that many of the traditions associated with the marriage ceremony have roots in diferent times and cultures in which marriage was very often a political strategy or a business agreement rather than a love match.

When one considers that most of the elements generally regarded as necessary for the wedding day are used and then disposed of or put away after the day itself, it's plain to see that the wedding rings, as the one exception, are the most important material part of a wedding. Plain wedding rings in classic metals like gold and platinum are still well-liked, but the demand for more modern and unique wedding rings is formidable. For a fancier style, eternity rings with diamonds and other precious stones might be the way to go, and for something in a cutting-edge material and design, tungsten carbide is likely the smart choice.

Tungsten rings or, more accurately, tungsten carbide rings, are a distinct gunmetal gray color that sets them apart from other types of rings in appearance. Their special properties don't stop there, however-- tungsten carbide is much stronger and harder than standard jeweler's metals and is incapable of tarnishing. Tungsten carbide rings are also extremely difficult to scratch and lend themselves well to other modern elements of design, such as tension setting and laser etching.

Another important part of your wedding day is the music used in the ceremony. Music sets the mood and inspires or heightens the emotional response to an event, so a meaningful occasion like a wedding needs it. However, don't feel bound to the old standards of the wedding march and processional typically used-- I was a part of a wedding last year that used songs by Muse and from the original "Star Wars" films to great effect, and it made the day memorable and endearing for everyone.

The rules have changed regarding wedding flowers as well-- the white roses and baby's breath of traditional bouquets are now often edged out by bright colors, exotic plants, and non-floral accents like ribbons and crystals. For the wedding I discussed above, the bride carried a bouquet of flowers sculpted from metal and glass while we bridesmaids held bunches of peacock feathers.

The point is, in this modern age where we can be and do anything we dream of without being limited by social convention of the past, our dream weddings are within reach as well.




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