A Dr. Who Wedding for the Whole Family
Dr. Who is one of the most popular and longest-running science fiction television shows in the entire world, with a fan base more dedicated and loving than most marriages. It seems so very obvious then that so many couples would want to use elements from the show within their nuptials, usually in the form of cake toppers, garters, photo booths, and other wedding reception goodies. So how can you include your love for the doctor in the most important social gathering of your relationship without alienating those you love in the flurry of Dr. Who gadgets and memorabilia? The answer is subtlety, as it is with anything, especially when you’re dealing with wedding elements outside of your wedding reception. Here are my thoughts and recommendations for your special day:
The Ceremony
The ceremony is possibly the best place for some beautiful Dr. Who inclusions. Aside from the color scheme and the attire (everyone loves a fez and bow tie), think of including some personal touches within the wording and accessories of the ceremony itself. My favorite touches for a ceremony? Have the parents of the bride(s) and/or groom(s) “consent and gladly give” their children away to replace the traditional bride hand-off, or have the officiant perform the marriage ceremony out of a replica TARDIS diary, inspired by Dr. River Song. Again, keep your Whovian accessories accessible! Your fandom is important, but you don’t want to lose the attention of those you love most in the middle of the ceremony. If necessary, explain why little things have been changed in the ceremony program you provide for your guests.
The Paper Goods
Dr. Who invites are very easy to come by and to make, with various degrees of subtlety. As “Tardis Blue” is now an actual color that items can be purchased in, despite the resistance of Crayola, it isn’t difficult to create a Dr. Who-inspired set of stationary to send off to all of your closest friends and relatives. Consider police box-shaped backing and TARDIS blue envelopes. Some dedicated fans have even signed off on their mailings with the doctor’s famous catchphrases. Consider such gems as “Hope to see you there – Allons-y!” or “Bow ties are optional, but you should wear one. Bow ties are cool!” As with any usage of fan culture in wedding accessories, it’s important that you try to make these little inclusions accessible. Don’t write the address in Gallifreyan or list your names as “the future Rory and Amy Pond.” Have fun, but keep up the subtlety!