One way is to start from the end and work backwards. It gives a different perspective as the reader already knows the outcome and then you unfold how things got to that point. For example, in a mystery story, you could start with the solution of the crime and then show how the detective pieced together the clues.
Writing from the perspective of an inanimate object is also quite creative. Let's say you write a story from the point of view of a old, worn - out chair in a busy café. It has witnessed countless conversations and events, and through its 'eyes' you can tell a story about the people who have come and gone in the café over the years.
Begin with a vivid and strange image that makes the reader wonder what's going on. For example, start with a character waking up in a place full of floating objects. Then, build the story around that. Incorporate real - life events or emotions but in a fictional context. It makes the story relatable yet imaginative. Also, play with the structure. Have non - linear timelines, jumping between past, present and future.
One creative way is to start with an unexpected character. For example, make the protagonist a talking animal in a human - dominated world. This immediately grabs the reader's attention. Another way is to use a unique narrative structure, like starting from the end and then working backwards to explain how things got to that point. You can also create a vivid setting that is out of the ordinary, such as a city that floats in the sky. This kind of setting can inspire a lot of interesting plot ideas and make your short story stand out.
You can do a choose - your - own - adventure style wedding story. Start with the build - up to the wedding day, and then at key moments, give the reader options of what could have happened. For example, 'The florist didn't show up with the flowers. Do you (A) raid your neighbor's garden for some quick replacements? or (B) make paper flowers with your bridesmaids?' It makes the story interactive and fun.
One creative way is to start with a vivid dream or a strange thought that pops into your head. For example, you might dream about a city floating in the sky. Then build your story around that unique concept. Another way is to combine different genres in an unexpected manner, like mixing a detective story with elements of fantasy. You could also write from an unusual point of view, such as that of an inanimate object observing the world around it.
You can also take a common situation and give it a completely different twist. Like turning a simple school day into a day where the school is transported to a different dimension. This can create a very interesting and unexpected story.
A dinner theater - style presentation would be interesting. Set the scene at a long table as if it were the Last Supper but incorporate the Christmas story elements. The actors can perform the story while the audience enjoys a meal. It makes for a very immersive experience as the story unfolds right in front of them during dinner.
Another creative way is to write from the perspective of the tattoo itself. If the daughter has a tattoo of a flower, the story could be told from the flower's point of view. How it came to be on her skin, how it experiences the world as she moves through her day, and what it means to be a permanent part of her. This unique perspective can add a lot of charm and depth to the story.