The Ceremony Extras You'll Need to Buy (But Probably Haven't Thought of Yet)

Take it from us: You'll likely need to check these off your list at some point.
catherine jessee the knot contributor
by
Catherine Jessee
catherine jessee the knot contributor
Catherine Jessee
The Knot Contributor
  • Catherine Jessee is a Nathalie Dupree Graduate Fellow at Southern Foodways Alliance and is completing her Master of Arts in Southern Studies.
  • Catherine previously worked on editorial teams, but is currently studying Appalachian History.
  • Catherine worked for The Knot as a Digital Editorial Intern from 2016 to 2017.
Updated Jan 29, 2021
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With so much wedding preparation to do, it's important to keep track of miscellaneous items you'll need for the ceremony itself—especially those you may not necessarily think of right off the bat. Whether you're participating in a religious tradition (like a unity candle) or imagining a ceremony exit through lots of confetti, it's the little extras that make your "I dos" totally unique. See our list of important wedding ceremony extras below.

Programs

Your ceremony programs can include any information you want to communicate with your guests—and you can get as creative as you want with the design. Create your own via an online stationery store (like Minted) or connect with a local pro.

Guest Book

Have your guests sign a guest book as they enter your cocktail hour or reception. (Pro tip: It doesn't need to be an actual book.)

Aisle Runner

An aisle runner can lend a regal touch to your ceremony. You can use anything from vintage, bohemian rugs to a legitimate red carpet—or you can design your own custom one here.

Signage

Whether you want a cheeky sign that includes a funny quote from The Office or a mirror sign informing guests to put their phones down, see (and shop!) some of our favorite wedding signs here.

Any Religious Necessities

If you're having a traditional Jewish wedding, you'll probably consider coming equipped with your Ketubah, a chuppah, yarmulkes and glass. Your traditional elements will obviously depend on your religion—you may need a broom (if you're jumping the broom) or crowns for a Greek Orthodox ceremony, for example.

Unity Candle

The unity candle is a well-known wedding tradition that symbolizes the marriage (literally) of two families. Not into candles? There are tons of alternative ideas you can get inspired by, from tree planting to a tea ceremony.

Ring Pillow

Outfit your ring bearer with a personalized ring pillow, box or holder.

Flower Girl Basket

The flower girl will likely need a basket to carry down the aisle as well.

Pashminas

Pashminas are the perfect addition to your ceremony if you're having an outdoor wedding during the fall or winter—keep them in baskets next to the pews so your guests can keep warm during the ceremony, and let them take them home as favors.

Something to Toss

Exit your ceremony or reception in style by having your guests toss confetti, rose petals or something else entirely. (Get inspired here.)

Fans

If you have an outdoor summer ceremony in the books, make sure your guests can keep cool with adorable paper fans. Also, make sure there's plenty to drink (even if it's just ice water with lemon or cucumber).

Umbrellas

Rain or shine, you'll be happy you played it safe by getting plenty of umbrellas for your outdoor ceremony.

Shoe or Heel Protectors

Grass and stilettos don't mix. Make sure your guests avoid sinking during your outdoor, grassy ceremony by equipping them with shoe or heel protectors.

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