There are endless ways to evoke the five senses : here are some of our favourite ideas to get you started ..
Sight
It ’ s true : first impressions count . So , transport guests to your chosen wedding wonderland with on-brief invites , considered signage and décor , and a cohesive styling plan . Lighting is an area couples often overlook but it will seriously make or break your ambience . Swap unflattering fluoros for the magical glow of candles , neons , fairy lights or 3D light projections instead . Tree boughs festooned in lights will create an instant focal point after dark . Then take the tempo up a notch with fireworks or a sparkler exit .
Sound
Whether it ’ s an elegant string quartet , a roving Mariachi band , or a dance-ready DJ , your choice of music will set the wedding mood . “ Music is key ,” says Melinda from First Class Functions . “ It ’ s your night , you get to choose the playlist , so make sure they ’ re songs you love and take you back to fun moments together as a couple .” And don ’ t forget , ambient sounds need to hit the right notes as well . Murmuring waves
make the moment . Road noise , not so much .
Smell
Nothing stirs the soul quite like scent . That first-date perfume , incense on the Bali breeze , fresh-cut grass . Instant nostalgia . Choose a signature scent and weave it through your details to pique those olfactory senses . Think room candles and spritzes , cocktail garnishes , and bathroom hand soaps ( bonus : they make excellent bonbonierre ). A crackling open fire will also bring the holiday feels . Just remember to tone things down when it comes time to enjoy the aromas of your reception meal .
Taste
From a post-ceremony coffee van to a late-night snacking menu , there are plenty of opportunities to treat your guests through flavour . We love a cocktail cart , gelato station or dessert bar for a focal point . And of course , the wedding cake . Sentimental bakes or mix and match layers of your favourite flavours are always a sweet option . And don ’ t forget , we eat with our eyes , so the way your food looks will enhance the flavour ! “ Another popular idea is a fun mocktail , cocktail or shot that is symbolic of the two of you ,” says Melinda from First Class Functions . “ Whether it ’ s the name or the ingredients ( such as gin from a distillery you visited ), I love that whenever you have that drink in the future , you ’ ll be reminded of your wedding day .”
Touch
For that feel-good factor , look to tactile textures that complement your theme . From velvet-embossed invites and billowing silk tablecloths for a romantic traditional event to rattan placemats and crisp linen napkins for a tropical beach soiree . Don ’ t overlook comfort either : giving guests somewhere plush to sit or lounge will instantly put them at ease .
( Top ) Eliza & Justin sparkle at Preston Peak Winery . Photo : E . L Simpson Photography . ( Above ) Autumn Grove Events organised a tree for Lauren & Ben ’ s wedding at The Warehouse . Photo : Tara Lee Photography . ( Left ) Champagne moments at The Warehouse . Styling : Main Event Weddings Photo : Dreamlife Photo & Cinema
84 Autumn 2022