Couples planning their wedding day may be curious about the latest trends. Our expert event planners offer this simple advice related to today’s trends: each wedding is different, and every couple is unique, so let your personalities and passions shine! With a continued increase in personalization, distinct guest experiences, and nods to sustainability, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas you can customize to keep your wedding authentic and green!
Decorated Arch
We offer a beautiful arch as a backdrop for wedding ceremonies, which acts as both a focal point framing the couple and a symbolic gateway to their shared future. This arch was handmade by our on-team artisans from fallen ash trees on our property. This addition to your ceremony provides a marvelous backdrop, with fabric draped simply over top or florals attached with zip-ties.
Raptor Meet & Greet
Schlitz Audubon offers a one-of-a-kind, interactive Raptor meet & greet during cocktail hour! This is a perfect opportunity to treat your guests while creating a lasting impact by supporting our mission of environmental education and conservation. You and your loved ones will enjoy a delicious cocktail while learning about the raptors’ individual stories and habitats. You’ll also be able to take photos with these magnificent birds, tokens of this exciting and enlightening experience! Over half of our couples invite the raptors to their wedding – what a fun memory for nature-loving newlyweds!
First Dance Before Dinner
A trend growing in popularity is the first dance immediately following the grand march. This timing feels natural as it engages guests’ attention while they’re seated and helps create a smooth transition into dinner. As a bonus, when the dance floor opens later in the evening, guests can jump in and get the party started without hesitation!
“Firsts”
Speaking of first dances, many couples highlight other “firsts” throughout their wedding day. Doing a “first look” before the ceremony gives couples a private moment to bask in, helps shake off nerves, and allows ample time for portraits or private vows. Other first moments typically relate to food and drink. We have seen “first bites” of cake, “first sips” of champagne, and even sharing a “first sip” of espresso for coffee lovers!
Dessert in Front of Emerson
The most popular placement for dessert tables at Schlitz Audubon weddings is in front of Emerson’s tank, our beloved snapping turtle! Incorporating Emerson’s aquarium is a fun way for guests to interact with our charming animal ambassador, while tying in elements of nature and the history of our venue. Guests always get a kick out of his social behavior and often end up taking selfies to commemorate this special wedding guest!
Signature Cocktails
Signature drinks are a great option for adding some personality to your bar! Many couples choose a favorite cocktail to represent themselves or add a specialty mocktail for a festive and distinct non-alcoholic option. Our event team works with you to help customize the bar offerings for the best guest experience. One playful way to incorporate your furry friends into your wedding is by naming a signature cocktail in their honor! Some couples even make a custom sign showcasing their pets or include customized napkins at the bar with their picture!
Lighting Enhancements
A magical trend and our most popular rental add-ons are lighting enhancements. Lighting sets the mood and adds intensity to focal points, both in-person and in photographs. Café string lights over the dining area in the Great Hall or the cupola above the dance floor add a lovely romantic ambiance and are many couples’ first choice. Up-lights against the structural tree pillars can cast a classic warm amber glow or add a lively pop of color. Outdoor ceremonies can be enhanced by adding café string lights surrounding the Pavilion Courtyard, creating an enchanting and inviting atmosphere as dusk begins to fall.
Signing Bench
Our Aldo Leopold signing bench is a twist on the classic guest book. Many couples enjoy this practical physical reminder of their wedding day and loved ones. These handmade keepsakes are set up in the Hearth Room, providing a place to leave messages and well-wishes to be remembered for years to come!
Flower Alternatives
While fresh florals are still the standard centerpieces for weddings, alternatives that are creative, cost-effective, sustainable, and long-lasting are becoming more common. Examples of floral substitutes couples opt for include wooden flowers, lanterns, stacked books, seasonal pumpkins, personalized photos, and even Lego bouquet arrangements! Centerpieces are a great opportunity to express your personality, showcase interests or hobbies, and incorporate any themes.
Breaking from Tradition
Personalizing your wedding and really making it your own may mean straying from tradition. Recently, we’ve seen many modern twists that reflect the couple’s style and values, providing a feeling of freshness and authenticity. Instead of the classic flower children during the processional, couples have been choosing adults to play this role. Grandparents tossing flower petals and groomsmen blowing bubbles down the aisle are a few sweet and playful options we’ve seen lately. Other couples are choosing to shake things up with non-traditional wedding attire. We’ve seen an increase in colorful gowns, from floral designs to all black ensembles, as well as vibrant or printed suits!
Catching Sunset Photos
Schlitz Audubon has 185 acres and 6 miles of trails for endless photo opportunities! Most couples sneak off during dinner with their photographers to capture stunning and romantic sunset pictures. For these scenic shots, you can stay close by on our prairie trail or venture further down to Lake Michigan or up our incredible Observation Tower.
These trends can create a fresh and modern experience while being adaptable to what feels most authentic for each couple. Our rental and events team look forward to helping you envision your one-of-a-kind wedding day at Schlitz Audubon!
Feature image: Ari Rosenthal
