“Just Married”: Decorating the Wedding Couple’s “Getaway Car”
Decorating a couple’s exit vehicle is a time-honored tradition, going back centuries. In Tudor times, guests would throw shoes at the wedding carriage, with the tradition that hitting the carriage was good luck for the couple. This eventually evolved into tying shoes or tin cans behind the car. The custom may have also been intended to scare away evil spirits. Whatever the original rationale, today it is just a fun way to announce a newlywed couple to the world. If you aren’t a fan of tin cans, here are some other fun ideas for decorating a wedding car.
Just for Laughs
Responsibility for decorating the wedding vehicle is traditionally taken on by the groomsmen, who sometimes enjoy the opportunity to embarrass the couple. Writing messages on the car with soap or shaving cream is quick and easy and provides ample opportunity for creative messages or images.
Decorations aren’t limited to the outside of the car. Consider filling the inside of the car with balloons or silly string for that extra touch of festivity.
Make it Romantic
If messages written in soap aren’t quite the style you’re looking for, there are plenty of more romantic options. Order preprinted signs or window clings in fancy type to hang in the window. Decorate the car (inside and out) with flowers or flower petals. If the couple has rented a limousine, make sure they have champagne and their favorite music.
Be Considerate
Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to be considerate. Remember, this is the wedding couple’s special day, and while it is fine to give everybody a laugh, you don’t want to do anything that will cause excessive trouble or bad memories. For limousines and rented cars, make sure to find out any rules or restrictions beforehand. If the decorations will be difficult to clean up, make sure somebody is prepared to take on that task (don’t leave it to the bride and groom). Above all, don’t do anything that will put anyone in danger.
However you choose (or your friends choose for you) to leave your wedding, Stonebrook Manor can help you plan the perfect wedding and reception. Contact us to schedule a tour today.