As your wedding day approaches, it’s very likely you’ve not given a thought to your reception entrance.  Considering everything else you have to think about, that’s no surprise. If you do want to spice up your introduction as husband and wife, we’ve got a few suggestions.

The simple entrance is the most common, and many couples slowly walk into the room, usually introduced by the band leader or DJ. Some couples even skip that formality, and walk in unannounced.

The more formal introduction involves the band leader or DJ introducing everyone in the wedding party and finishing up with the two big stars, the man and wife. This is a long entrance, and great for a big, extravagant affair. If you go this route, it’s especially important that you don’t keep your guests waiting at the reception for a long amount of time before your arrival.

If you want to add some flair, there are lots of fun alternatives. One cute idea is to do a dance move, with the husband dipping the bride. Like everything else on your wedding, there’s one caveat: “If you’re going to do something, own it." “Rehearse your entrance; otherwise it’ll look amateurish or you’ll chicken out at the last minute.”

Other, unique ideas include bubbles (have them shooting from guns or hire a machine), sparklers or other legal fireworks, even great music. “A fun song can be a great introduction to the crowd." “Also, it will get people dancing.”

Dry ice has been the opener for a lot of pop music stars, and couples have done it too. It’s an over-the-top idea, but can work wonders at an outdoor wedding. Talk to a planner or designer about renting the equipment, and be prepared to rehearse the “effect.” Smoke machines don’t always take direction and can end up blanketing a room. Many DJ’s and bands deal with pyrotechnics, so ask about logistics. We don't have any fogger or dry ice at this time.

The even bigger entrance usually involves something outrageous, like riding in on motorcycles or a classic convertible. One couple we spoke with had a ski-lodge wedding and actually skied into the reception area. Another couple flew in on a glider. You can rent a horse and buggy, or, for that lake or ocean wedding, Jet Skis or a sailboat.

How big you want to go is up to you and your budget. What’s important is that the two of you show up, together, as man and wife.