Bear in mind that the venue that you choose for your wedding plays an integral part in setting the scene and theme for your special day. An aquarium is an unusual choice for couples planning their wedding, but they can create exquisite settings in which to celebrate your union. Using an aquarium as a ceremony [...]

Bear in mind that the venue that you choose for your wedding plays an integral part in setting the scene and theme for your special day. An aquarium is an unusual choice for couples planning their wedding, but they can create exquisite settings in which to celebrate your union. Using an aquarium as a ceremony or reception venue introduces an entirely new perspective on your event. Unlike any sort of outdoor wedding, an aquarium wedding showcases the beauty of a place that is not otherwise visible to us – the world below the surface of the oceans. This is sure to elicit lasting memories for the special family and friends that share this celebration with you.

You may opt to say your vows in front of one of the tank windows, giving your guests a fabulous show while they listen to the “I do’s”. Alternatively, have only your reception in one of the function rooms of the aquarium, which usually boasts some of the tank windows and their marine residents. Guests can admire the beauty and wonder of nature as they wait for you to arrive and while they enjoy their meals. Some aquariums even offer a ‘fishbowl’ effect, which refers to a room with rounded walls made completely from glass, so that the couple and their guests feel that they are right within the watery home of a variety of colourful and interesting marine species.

Your theme colour(s) will work best if they complement the colours of the ocean and / or its fauna and flora. Obviously, the primary colour of the deep water ocean is blue. Your theme colour does not necessarily have to be a particular shade of blue, but should work well when it is set against the blue waters of the aquarium.  Be sure that the decorator that you have hired for your wedding has seen the venue as well as the effect that the light and water have on different colours and objects. The décor of your wedding cannot and should not try to compete with the tank and underwater scene, but should aim at enhancing it as much as possible.

Your wedding theme could be based on the ocean itself (using fish, starfish, kelp and shells in your décor and design elements, for example). But, you can avoid that approach too and keep the décor simple, allowing the setting to create the largest and most effective impact.

Setting your wedding within an aquarium creates plenty of fantastic opportunities for stunning wedding photographs, whether formal or informal. In addition to unbeatable backdrops, you can also take advantage of this scene by including props, such as colourful cardboard fish, fishing nets, kayaks, the couple petting other marine wildlife, riding on a model of a dolphin, etc…

You may feel that it would be inappropriate for guests to admire the gorgeous fish through the glass as they dine on juicy seafood. On the other hand, a seafood menu would also enhance the theme. This is completely up to you.

Some flowers and materials may not be permitted into an aquarium because of the potential for foreign viruses that they may introduce, or because of the possible hazards that they present to the wildlife. These include balloons, strobe lights and smoke machines. Be sure to discuss such issues with the venue well ahead of time to be certain about what you are allowed to use.

Your wedding day is your time. Make it unique and relevant to you, as a couple, by enjoying it in your favourite place. For many couples, this is an aquarium.