The World Is Your Oyster: How These Little Shells Are Making Waves at Weddings

Oysters aren’t just a delicious treat—they’re also a unique and elegant way to add a coastal, rustic, or even glamorous touch to your wedding. Whether you’re tying the knot by the sea or just love the idea of incorporating natural elements into your decor, oysters can be used in so many creative ways. From table settings to keepsakes, here are some fabulous ideas to bring the charm of oysters into your big day and some fun pictures of how our couples have incorporated oysters into their wedding!!

1. Oyster Shell Place Cards

Instead of traditional paper place cards, consider using oyster shells with your guests’ names written in elegant calligraphy. These can be placed on each plate or tucked into a linen napkin for a chic coastal look. Bonus? Your guests can take them home as a keepsake!

2. Oyster Shell Candle Holders

Fill cleaned oyster shells with wax and a wick to create dainty, sea-inspired candles. These can be used as centerpieces or wedding favors, adding a warm and intimate glow to your reception.

3. Oyster Escort Card Display

Set up a stunning escort card table by arranging oyster shells with guests’ names and table numbers on a bed of sand, moss, or driftwood. This not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a unique decorative element.

4. Oyster Shell Jewelry Dishes

For a luxurious touch, paint the inside of oyster shells with gold or silver leaf and use them as ring dishes at the ceremony. They also make perfect bridesmaid gifts!

5. Oyster Shell Garland or Chandelier

For a dramatic statement piece, string oyster shells together to create a garland or even a hanging chandelier over the reception tables. This adds a textural and organic feel to the decor, perfect for beachy or bohemian weddings.

6. Oyster Shell Centerpieces

Pair oyster shells with driftwood, candles, or floral arrangements to create beautiful centerpieces that feel both natural and sophisticated.

7. Oyster Bar or Raw Bar Display

If you and your guests love fresh oysters, why not incorporate them into your wedding menu with a stylish oyster bar? Display them on a bed of crushed ice with custom cocktail sauces and elegant signage.

8. Wedding Favors: Pearls of Wisdom

Fill small oyster shells with tiny scrolls of "pearls of wisdom"—sweet quotes or marriage advice from family and friends. Guests can take them home as a sentimental memento.

9. Oyster Shell Wedding Invitations

For a luxe touch, have your wedding invitations or save-the-dates printed on thinly sliced oyster shells or include an oyster-themed design.

10. Oyster Shell Guest Book Alternative

Instead of a traditional guest book, have guests sign or write messages on oyster shells and collect them in a beautiful keepsake box or vase. This is a fun and personal way to remember your special day.

Bringing It All Together

Oysters are not only beautiful but also symbolize love, prosperity, and transformation—making them a perfect addition to your wedding. Whether you go all out with oyster-themed decor or just add subtle touches, these ideas will bring a unique charm to your celebration.

Would you incorporate oysters into your wedding? Let me know in the comments below!

VENDOR CREDITS

[IMAGE 1-6: Maggy & Will] Photographer: Jenna Lindsey Photography || Planner: Sutlan + Co || Florist: Us! || Venue: Colleton River Club || Rentals: Event Works & Amazing Event Rentals || Cake: Brown Sugar Custom Cakes || Hair + Makeup: Brideside Beauty || Ceremony Music: Two Strings || Reception Band: Emerald Empire Band || Lighting: JLK Events || DJ: All About You [IMAGE 7-10: Marley & Cory] Photographer: Lunic Visuals || Planning + Florals: Ivory & Beau || Venue, Bar, + Catering: Crane Cottage || Reception Music: East Coast Entertainment || Ceremony Music: Music by Pegge || Desserts: Cathy Huber Cakes || Rentals: Beachview Rentals || Hair + Makeup: Studio Bride [IMAGE 11-14: Ashlee & Joseph] Photographer: Lindsey Morgan Photography || Planner: Maggie Hughes Events || Venue: Cedar Lodge on Honey Creek || Videographer: Ardsley Park Productions || DJ: We Are the Needle || Rentals: Beachview Event Rentals