If you’re looking to say “I do” in an out-of-the-box way, creativity is King.  There are some fun ways and interesting places to tie the knot, but you must be willing to escape normalcy and adhere to adventure and excitement.  Are you game?

According to statistics published in Bride’s magazine in 2010, nearly 80% of all weddings take place in a religious environment, particularly a church or synagogue.  Other statistics show that the summer months are when most weddings take place.  So, what about the 20% that are not getting hitched in a church or exchanging “I do’s” under the summer blaze?

Below are some of the most unique ways to get married that stretch the norm and get you away from the Big White Wedding tradition.  Playing up your interests and love for one another factors greatly in determining a creative way to tie the knot.  It’s time to think a little differently. Below are seven ideas to get you started.

7 Fun Ways to Say “I Do”

1.    Get some ink.

Looking for something extraordinarily creative and even artistic?  Try saying “I do” while the both of you are getting tattooed.  This can be done in an eclectic tattoo parlor or even the infamous LA Ink shop in California.  You may want to verify that the guest list attendees are a little on the edgy side, but what a great way to permanently exchange vows.

2.    Cruise the sea.

Cruise type weddings are becoming more and more popular as couples throw away tradition and look for ways to combine their ceremony and honeymoon.  Couples enjoy retreating back to their cabin for a time of romance, while partying with their friends and family on board when the social bug hits.  The traditional alone time has become a thing of the past, as couples enjoy spending time away with their loved ones.  Wedding photos can become quite lively aboard a cruise liner. 

3.    Vegas Baby!

Nearly 120,000 couples a month wed in Vegas, and the number continues to grow as budget constraints become tighter and tighter.  More people are looking to spend their money on the honeymoon and less funds on the wedding itself.  Vegas themed weddings provide a unique way to exchange vows on the cheap.  If money is no object, however, try sky diving from a plane just outside of Vegas or booking the Bellagio penthouse.  Las Vegas provides a wide variety of locations, interesting places and creative themes that advertise your love for one another – and, Elvis might even show up in the mix. 

4.    Your own back yard.

While this venue may be somewhat traditional, a small percentage of brides and grooms –to-be exchange vows in their own backyard.  An English tea celebration, garden affair or intimate evening soiree can provide the personal touch you are looking for among close friends and family members. 

5.    High on a mountain top.

Ok so hiking to the top of a mountain in your beautiful white gown with bridesmaids in toe may be a little extreme, but if money is no object, why not send for a helicopter to drop you off.  The dramatic arrival and take-off will leave your guests gaping, especially if timed at sunset.  Even if you are on a tight budget, cutting costs on flowers and making the most of nature can provide enough funds to cover the pilot and unconventional mode of transportation. 

6.    The beach with a twist.

A growing number of couples are opting for a beach wedding and saying goodbye to the traditional confines of the church.  While a beach wedding may not be totally unique, creative ideas in wedding attire, catering and decorations can jazz up the ceremony.  You may even implement a Reggae band or Polynesian dancers to bring even more festivity to your party. 

7.    Mark the event in history

What better way to mark the ceremony in history than by getting married at an historical place.  If you and your lover are history buffs, then you will feel even more honored to exchange vows at a place with a history.  Try investigating places in your hometown.  The local Chamber of Commerce is a great resource when it comes to finding a historical spot that will make for interesting print on the invite or enthused chatter while waiting for the bride to arrive. 

The best way to determine the unique venue to exchange vows is to examine your own hobbies, interests and pinnacle moments that have brought you to the place you are today as a couple.  Once you have discovered, or rediscovered, these places together, the list of unusual settings is endless.

Author of De-stress Your Success: Get More of What You Want with Less Time, Stress and Effort, Sacha Crouch is a business, executive and life coach who helps people create the work and lives they love. For other free lifestyle resources visit www.activ8change.com.au