If you’re a bit of a stargazer, the idea of exchanging your vows under the stars is likely quite romantic. But what if you could take things even further, into outer space?
As crazy as it sounds, couples are increasingly choosing to have their big day in the cosmos. While some of these out-of-this-world weddings are simply in-person ceremonies held at venues with a view, others, like the one featured here, use technology to connect with loved ones who can’t be there. And thanks to the pandemic, it’s easier than ever to incorporate virtual elements into a traditional ceremony.
While it’s not yet legal to marry in outer space, there’s a precedent: Russian astronaut Yuri Malenchenko married his bride Ekaterina Dmitrieva while he was orbiting the International Space Station and she was on Earth 16 years ago. They celebrated by video linkup, with her walking down the aisle to David Bowie’s “Absolute Beginners.” In keeping with Texas law, the couple performed a proxy marriage ceremony (another astronaut, Ed Lu, played Mendelsohn’s traditional wedding march on the keyboard aboard the station), then kissed each other as Malenchenko returned to the station for his final flight back home.
Most commercial spaceflights last just 10-15 minutes in microgravity, which isn’t enough time for a full ceremony, but companies like Space Perspective offer special flights for couples that want to say their “I do’s” before re-entry. But getting there is no small feat: Most flights require you to wear a pressurized flight suit that restricts your movement and can make it difficult to hold onto something, like rings or a bouquet. Plus, you’ll need to practice beforehand to get used to weightlessness.
But if you’re determined, there are plenty of other ways to have an out-of-this-world event. Here are some tips to help you plan your own cosmic celebration:
The Celestial Details
For a more subtle nod to space, decorate your venue with heavenly decor. Look for galactic-inspired touches, such as star lanterns and twinkle lights, moon shaped centerpieces, and colored glassware. This bride DIYed her own planet-shaped centerpieces, and we think the result was out of this world!
Or go all-out with a cosmic cake. This three-tiered beauty by Kelley Kakes was topped with chocolate gems that were out of this world. The invites by Whimsy Design Studio were also out of this world, with a bronze-colored theme that carried through to the starry-blue water-colored envelopes and lunar-shaped menu cards.
Likewise, this star-themed bridal bouquet by Floral Design by Melody was out of this world. And these star-shaped chocolates by Kelley Kakes were out of this world, too!
If you’re interested in a real-life space wedding, the first space hotel, designed to be more of an orbiting cruise ship than your standard resort, is scheduled to open in 2027. It will feature bars, restaurants, entertainment options, and luxury guest suites — and, of course, a view of the galaxy. We can’t wait to see what kind of cosmic weddings will be planned on board.