Gone are the days when the wedding celebration started with the walk down the aisle. Couples today are redefining what it means to “set the tone,” offering guests creative sneak peeks into their celebration well before they step foot at the venue. From creative invites to curated experiences, here’s how Washington's top wedding pros are helping couples build that buzz - and why it makes the whole event feel more like an immersive journey than a single day.
Curated Welcome Boxes That Set the Tone
Before the first toast is made or the dance floor is packed, some couples are giving guests a taste of the celebration to come, literally. “More couples are embracing the idea of sending curated welcome boxes to guests before the wedding weekend begins,” says Madison Henrie of the Seattle Wedding Show. “These thoughtful packages might include locally made treats, a custom cocktail recipe, or a QR code linking to a wedding weekend playlist. It’s a creative way to build excitement and set the tone for the celebration - especially for destination weddings where guests are traveling to attend. This personal touch makes guests feel appreciated and gives them a fun, tangible preview of what’s to come.”
Invitations That Do More Than Invite
Invitations have always been the first peek into a couple’s wedding aesthetic, but today they’re going far beyond paper. Whether it’s a digital teaser, a video message, or even a custom scent, couples are using invitations to introduce their vibe - and create a multi-sensory connection.
“Depending on the situation, if it’s a destination spot, sending out a promotional video of the property can get people excited to visit and start making their trip one to remember!” says Danae Johnsen, Wedding and Event Planning Manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington. She adds, “Invitations are a surefire way to set the stage for the cohesion of a theme or color palette throughout all of the wedding events - from showers and engagement parties to the welcome dinner and beyond.”
Kick Off the Celebration Before the Ceremony
Before the main event begins, couples are finding meaningful (and fun!) ways to start the party early. Hosting pre-wedding events like a welcome party or rehearsal dinner helps set the tone for the weekend and gives guests a chance to connect in a more relaxed setting. Whether it’s a casual cocktail hour, a location-inspired gathering, or a themed get-together, these moments create shared anticipation and lasting memories - long before the vows are exchanged.
Wedding Websites That Do More Than Share Info
Wedding websites have evolved from basic logistical tools into dynamic, storytelling platforms. “They’re now part of the pre-wedding excitement,” says Madison Henrie. “Couples are using them to build anticipation with interactive timelines, sneak-peek galleries, and even fun quizzes like ‘How well do you know the couple?’ It’s a creative and personal way to share their story, drop hints about what to expect, and get guests excited long before the big day arrives. A well-designed site sets the tone and gives guests a memorable first impression of the celebration to come."
Get Social with Cultural Moments
Social media and email sneak peeks aren’t just for Gen Z. Couples across the board are using their platforms to share small details that lead to big excitement. For multicultural weddings or multi-day celebrations, they can be especially powerful for introducing guests to cultural traditions in an engaging way.
Jennifer Lazon of Suncadia Resort recommends using something as simple as a henna photo to spark interest. “If you’re using social media, a wedding website, or even a welcome email, include a henna image with a caption like: ‘Tradition meets love. The beauty of henna, the story of heritage, and the joy of what’s to come.’ It hints at events like the mehndi night and builds curiosity and excitement.”
Digital Teasers That Create Community
Sharing sneak peeks or playful updates on a wedding website or Instagram story can spark community before the first guest even arrives. Think behind-the-scenes prep videos, "his and hers" playlists, or a cheeky countdown series. These little touches make guests feel like insiders and allow couples to craft a shared sense of excitement - something that only builds as the big day draws near.
Use Humor to Make It Memorable
Some couples are embracing humor to set a fun, lighthearted tone right from the start. Dan Merscher of Indian Summer Golf and Country Club recalls on particularly unforgettable invitation:
“We had a couple send out a really cool online wedding invite through a video. The link was titled, 'You're invited to our no pants party.' When clicked, it opened to a video of the couple and their kids playing on a lake, talking about ‘taking the plunge’ - complete with drone shots of them jumping off a dock. There was a bit of sarcasm as they joked, ‘we tolerate each other, so it makes sense for tax reasons.’ The wedding was held on Lake Travis in Texas, and the only dress code was shorts—absolutely no pants allowed. The video ended with their 16-year-old son looking into the camera and asking, ‘So can I call you Dad? Daddy? Papa?’ - followed by a quick cut to his stepdad saying ‘NO’ to each one. It was cute, comical, and one of the best weddings I’ve ever attended.”
A little humor not only breaks the ice - it creates something guests won’t forget.
Countdown Emails and Texts to Keep the Buzz Alive
Sometimes, it’s the little nudges that build the biggest excitement. Countdown messages - whether via email or text - help guests stay connected, especially as the big day draws near. These fun reminders can include signature cocktail reveals, dress code inspiration, or day-of tips. They keep the energy high, the details fresh, and make everyone feel involved in the experience step by step.
A Scent of What’s to Come
One unique way couples are engaging the senses? Teasing the perfume or cologne they’ll wear on the big day. Jennifer Lazon suggests pairing a photo of the signature scent with the wedding invite for social media: “Every detail tells a story… the scent she’ll wear, the moment they’ll say yes forever, and the invitation that starts it all. Let the countdown begin.”
Photo @bettyglobaphotography; Video @toastweddingfilms; Planning @gianevents @gianevents.jade; Floral @roseandsparrowfloral; Signage @onthewalldesignstudio; DJ @dj.dlion; Rentals @cortpartyrental; Stationery @luckysisterpaperco; Beauty @luxeartistryseattle; Photo Booth @gianevents; Venue @suncadia; Lighting @lightsmiths.seattle; Dance Floor Wrap @genealexanderdesigns
