Hands down the best thing at your wedding, apart from tying the knot, is seeing your guests’ faces light up when you surprise them with something unexpected. And, adding that startle effect will also give you something to talk about for years to come.

Below I’ve summarised some of my favourite things to do; but really, when it comes to adding that wow factor, the only limit is your imagination.

A moment for you two

The private moments before your ceremony starts is a great time to surprise each other. You could send your spouse a special gift or heartfelt message; or arrange for a romantic place away from the crowds to capture the first time you lay eyes on each other.

You’re in it together

Your guests will expect your dad, mom or another relative/special person to walk you down the aisle towards the groom. Why not surprise everybody by walking hand in hand towards the altar and into your new life as a married couple.

Dare the ninja vows

Can you imagine not seeing your vows until the moment you have to utter them in front of your family and friends? Deciding to write each other’s vows is a great symbol of trust and adds a lovely surprise and a lot of fun for you and your guests alike.

Surprise…we’re getting hitched

If you really want to surprise your guests, pretend you’re not having a wedding at all. Pull the greatest hoax of all by inviting them to your engagement party, housewarming or similar and then announce that you are getting married right there and then.

We have some BIG news!

At what other point in time will you have all your loved ones gathered in one place? Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to surprise everyone with big news such as a pregnancy, big trip, new job, move or other life adventure.

Go viral

Plan a choreographed first dance or flash mob. Actually, it doesn’t even have to be the first dance… or even with your bride or groom. Put on a show with one of your parents, your wedding party, or organize a flash mob with a small selection of your guests.

Footloose and fancy-free

If you’ve found a celebrant you really trust and love, why not hand over the reins. Let them write your entire ceremony without ever even glancing over it. Your ceremony will be just as much of a surprise for you as it will be for your guests.

Bingo, will you be our witness?

Can’t decide who should stand in as a witness on the big day? Let fate be the decider by conducting a fun wedding bingo or lottery on the day.

Hello from afar

Surprise messages are an awesome way to surprise your guests or spouse. There are endless ways you can deliver them, including via signs down the aisle; video messages from pets, loved ones from overseas and other guests who couldn’t attend; or organising a digital wish from your spouse’s favourite celebrity for example.

Finish with a bang

Round out the night with a beautiful display of colours… a firework will add a huge element of surprise. If a costly lightshow is not within your budget, you could also hire a confetti gun to get the party started.

There are so many awesome things you can do to add that element of surprise to your wedding. If you're looking for a fun, young, celebrant who’s full of great ideas, can deliver laughs and tears in 15-30 minutes and fits right in with your family and friends, I'm your girl! Get in touch today and let’s start planning your special day.

How to add a touch of sparkle and surprise to your wedding