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Adding a little whimsy to your special day can help set the tone for what your marriage should look like— playful, lively and every wonderful thing you could’ve ever imagined. Here are the best whimsical wedding ideas to create a beautiful, magical look. 

1. Have a Fun Dress Code

Encourage people to be as creative as they want with the dress code, or set the tone with a whimsical element from the beginning. For example, everyone needs to have some sparkle on their dresses and suits.

You can also apply the same idea to your own outfit! Many brides have opted for dresses in other colors that better suit their style and personality rather than the classic white. 

2. Get Creative with Wedding Makeup

Deviating from natural wedding makeup and incorporating more stunning features can also improve your overall whimsy. You can use some subtle options, like choosing glitter eyeshadow over your regular shimmers. However, you can also go a little louder with gems, graphic liner or even bolder lips. Do what fits with your style. 

3. Add Whimsy to Your Hairstyle

Letting your hair down? Opt for a more whimsical half-up and half-down wedding hairstyle. You can also accessorize with a flower crown, a headband, or even a hairpin. Another option is to fashion a few dried flowers or tinsel into your hair. 

4. Choose a Picturesque Venue

Finding a picturesque outdoor venue can offer the ambience that your whimsical wedding should have from the get-go. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Garden: A garden is one of the simplest yet most magical spaces to host your wedding. It can be especially beautiful if it’s filled with florals and you have clear skies. 
• Castle: Castle wedding venues introduce some medieval elements and panoramic views to your big day. Consider touring some romantic ruins when making your choice. 
• Cabin: For intimate gatherings, a private cabin can be a relaxing option. Think cottagecore, especially with the right decor. 

5. Select a Variety of Flowers

Every bride deserves beautiful flowers. A wildflower bouquet celebrates texture and asymmetry while looking absolutely breathtaking, which is definitely fit for a whimsical wedding. Just remember to choose your favorite florals and make sure they match the rest of your attire. That way, you’re still getting a cohesive photo.  

6. Create a Story Through Lighting

Lighting can result in a more whimsical-looking wedding. Plus, there are many options to bring your vision to life, from fairy lights in mason jars to lanterns hanging from your trees. Make sure these are scattered throughout your venue to ensure the whole venue looks magical.

7. Add Interactive Elements

Aside from engaging and entertaining guests, interactive elements can simply help you bond with your loved ones. Here are some suggestions to make a beautiful memory:

• Maypole: A maypole is used at folk festivals and invites people to dance. Add those long ribbons for your guests to grab and go around. 
• Wishing tree: Encourage guests to tie notes to a wishing tree at your wedding. Offer glittery pens and highlighters so they can decorate their letters however they’d like. 
• Balloons: Sending several balloons floating into the sky can be a magical way to commemorate your wedding. Plus, it’s a fantastic photo opportunity. 

8. Find the Right Centerpiece

Sometimes, the devil’s in the details. However, it also helps to have one big piece that screams whimsy to truly make your wedding feel instantly whimsical. Picture chandeliers or flower arches. You can also splurge on a beautiful water fountain or mural that guests can check on. 

9. Have a Themed Reception

While a traditional ceremony is classic for a reason, you can also have more of a themed reception for everyone to let loose. For example, have everyone wear little fairy wings as they move forward in the celebration. You could also add little temporary tattoos to help everyone look a little cooler. 

10. Set a Creative Editorial Shoot

If you don’t want a themed reception, a themed photo session with your loved ones can still yield some fun mementos. Just remember to organize who’s taking pictures with whom, as a chaotic schedule that has anyone jumping in may be a little overwhelming. 

11. Make a Playlist Full of Lively Songs

A magical wedding deserves a fun playlist. Make sure to choose a mix of romantic tunes and whimsical melodies that you, your partner and other couples can dance to. And as with every lively event, some old classics are a must to jam and dance to. 

12. Write a Story Vow

Tell your guests about a mundane story about how you both started getting along and falling in love. Your wedding vows for the love of your life can be one of the simplest yet earnest ways to promise a life full of whimsy. 

13. Curate a Magical Menu

Food can be one of the simplest ways to add whimsy to your wedding day. Just remember that presentation means everything. From rainbow salad bowls to funfetti French toast to tortilla pinwheels, customize these as you need with the rest of you. Then, imagine having such good food while sipping a simple blushing bride or another wedding cocktail to wash it all down. 

14. Offer a Lovely Remembrance

Everyone wants a keepsake of such a magical event, so remember to plan the wedding favors to be just as good as those. Little displays, like snow globes, music boxes or wooden figures, can be such a good idea. Or if you want more useful items, consider candles or scarves.

15. Wait for the Sunrise or Sunset

A more spontaneous way to end your wedding is to wait until dawn or dusk. You can choose either period depending on what time the festivities start. Aside from the spectacular view, sharing it with your loved ones can make this place extra meaningful. 

Recreate Your Favorite Whimsical Wedding Ideas 

You and your partner deserve to have a wedding celebration as magical as you both are.  Choose your favorite whimsical wedding ideas to bring into your wedding planning. You can also share these with a bride-to-be!