Long before the first toast or walk down the aisle, a successful wedding experience begins with anticipation. 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 invitations to pre-wedding events, here’s how Minnesota'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.
Invitations That Do More Than Invite
Invitations have always been the traditional first step, but today’s couples are treating them as an artistic preview of what’s to come. "They set the tone for everything that follows," says Melody Hall of Events by Melody. She recommends using a custom logo or monogram that can carry through the entire celebration - from invites to signage and even cocktail napkins - for a cohesive and personal touch.
Going bold with your paper goods? Do it with intention. “I’m all about bold, personality-packed save-the-dates, invites, and websites that scream ‘this is SO them,’” shares Paloma Rodrigues of Rosetree Weddings & Events. Her go-to? Statement-making stationery from Paper Rock Scissor that practically buzzes with joy.
And it’s not just about what you send - it’s how you send it. “The invitation is more than just details - it’s the first impression of the entire wedding experience,” says Grace Eberhardt of Northern Pacific Center. Whether it’s textured paper with hand-drawn illustrations or digital invites with motion graphics and music, Grace encourages couples to mirror their overall vibe right from the start. “Think of it as the movie trailer to your wedding day premiere.”
Inject Personality into Every Pre-Detail
Custom stationery with heart goes a long way in telling your story. “Your wedding stationery is the first glimpse your guests get into your day,” says Alexandra Robyn of Alexandra Robyn Photo + Design. “It’s a chance to share fun details like theme or color - I love, love to see custom pieces with all the personality.”
But why stop at paper? Pre-wedding personality can shine through in a variety of creative and immersive ways - like curated pre-wedding boxes sent to guests. These can be filled with meaningful, on-theme items: a candle in your signature scent, a sweet treat from your hometown, a mini bottle of champagne, a custom playlist QR code, or a fabric swatch from your wedding colors. Not only are these boxes a delight to receive, but they give guests a multi-sensory preview of the experience to come.
Share the Hype Online
That idea of personality extends well beyond paper. “There’s something so fun about giving guests little glimpses of what’s to come - it’s like sharing a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the big day,” says Rachel Larson of Mintahoe Catering & Events. "Whether it’s a cute countdown on Instagram, a wedding website with fun facts and photos, or a short video from your engagement shoot, these little touches make people feel included and so excited to celebrate with you. I also love when couples share a playlist of songs that’ll set the vibe - it gets everyone in the mood and makes the day feel even more personal.” These digital touches don’t just inform - they create a joyful buzz and a sense of connection long before the first toast.
Lights, Camera, Anticipation: Digital Teasers
In today’s digital world, a well-crafted video can stir major emotions. “One of the most fun ways to build pre-wedding hype? Sending a short video to your guests,” says Natalia Brummond of Belle Âme Vineyard. She suggests incorporating footage from your engagement shoot, sprinkled with scenes from your love story or how you met. “It sets the tone, gets everyone emotionally invested, and makes your wedding feel like more than just an event - it becomes the story they’re stepping into.”
Build a Spotify Playlist Together
Get your guests involved musically by creating a collaborative Spotify playlist. Ask them to submit their favorite party songs or tracks that remind them of the couple. Not only does it generate buzz, but it also provides a crowd-sourced soundtrack that you can feature during pre-wedding events or even on the dance floor. It’s a modern way to bring your people into the process - and spark a little dancing-in-the-kitchen joy before the celebration.
Color-Driven Dress Codes
Want your guests buzzing with excitement before they even step foot at your ceremony? Invite them into your color story. One creative way to build anticipation is by sharing a color palette and asking guests to dress in hues that match. It not only makes for stunning, cohesive photos - it turns your loved ones into part of the aesthetic magic from the start.
“Shopping for the perfect color coordinated outfit is a great way to get guests excited about being a pop of color in their ceremony shots!” says Carlie Knudsen of Event Lab. “There is no denying that wedding days are memorable, but couples who carefully curate the guest’s experience from the initial invite to the last dance, create lasting memories that they will be reminiscing about for years to come!”
This thoughtful pre-wedding prompt creates a sense of inclusion and shared purpose - transforming dress code into an interactive teaser for the celebration ahead.
Pre-Wedding Events That Feel Like You
Events leading up to the big day are another chance to build excitement - but authenticity is key. “Pre-wedding events should be an authentic reflection of who you are as a couple,” advises Jenna Culley of Jenna Culley Events. "Whether it’s a bachelorette party in Vegas or a quiet weekend getaway at a family cabin, the key is to prioritize what makes you truly happy rather than what you think others might expect.
Not only do they provide context and connection, they ease the pressure. “Kicking off your wedding weekend lets you greet guests ahead of time,” says Sarah Trotter of Lasting Impressions Weddings. “It takes the pressure off having to talk to everyone on the day of the wedding.”
Casual meetups also offer a chance for genuine moments. “A welcome dinner, group hike, or even a coffee gathering gives guests space to connect and sets the tone for what’s to come,” adds Brianna (Bri) Schwartz of Bellagala Photography.
Venue-Backed Celebrations
Venues are uniquely positioned to build pre-wedding hype by hosting memorable lead-up events that set the tone for the big day and extend the celebration. “Providing beautifully handcrafted cocktails, exceptional food options, and excellent service all wrapped up in a historic and unique venue at the St. Paul private airport is the perfect recipe for unforgettable pre-wedding celebrations that build excitement and create lasting memories," says Event Coordinator Kasey Nixt of Holman’s Table. "If the weather is nice you can even score some excellent sunset photos with the St. Paul skyline in the background from the tarmac!"
Main photo by Trish Allison Photography
