Picking a theme is an excellent opportunity to show off your unique personalities and styles as individuals and couples. It’s the ideal way of putting your stamp on your big day.
Your theme will guide your choices regarding your venue, décor, menu options, and even your music playlist. It’s one of the most critical considerations of the whole planning process, and we’re here to help!
The classic white-dress wedding will naturally always be a firm favourite among couples. But there are plenty of other themes available to choose from too.
Opting for a unique and unexpected theme will make your wedding even more memorable for you and your guests—and could even inspire other couples in the future!
These seven unique wedding theme ideas are sophisticated, timeless, and will never go out of style. So please give them your creative spin, and you’re sure to have the matrimonial ceremony of your dreams!
Does your idea of the perfect wedding theme involve drama, glamour and unparalleled romance? If yes, you will love the idea of a night wedding.
Night weddings may be a relatively new thing, but it is certainly gaining popularity. After all, a ceremony under a starry moonlit sky is simply lovely. Not only is it an intimate affair, but it is also a whole new experience that your guests will not easily forget.
Not yet convinced? Here are some factors that are exclusive to nighttime affairs.
The Sunset And Night Hours Create A Magnificent Backdrop
Imagine how beautiful it would be if you had purple skies speckled with scatterings of sparkle from twinkling stars as your backdrop. The beautiful colours of the setting sun and magical sounds will be your background. Need I say more about how dramatic nature is at this time of day?
Your wedding is a reflection of your personality and style. When the various elements at your wedding come together, it will showcase who you are as a couple. So, it is not just about the details, it is also how these details work together.
Most brides base their wedding on a theme. Although the same theme may have been done a thousand times before, it can be executed completely differently at yours. Nonetheless, making it unique depends on how you plan your details. This is where our tips for styling your wedding will help you.
Here are some of our insider tips to help you style your wedding, to make it uniquely yours!
1.Discuss and note down what you want
Before you begin collecting pretty pictures on Pinterest or browsing the internet for trending themes, take a minute. It is easy to be swayed by what looks good and interesting. However, it may not be the right one for you. Instead, identify what you want first and proceed from there. Sit down with your fiance and discuss what you want your wedding to look and feel like.
It is helpful to jot down not just elements and factors that should be at your wedding, but also words that describe the effect your wedding should create. This will help you when you have to shortlist or choose between ideas that are right for your wedding plans.
2.Collect ideas for all the different elements of your day
Once you know what you want, it is easier to collect ideas that work. This is a good time to start looking at Pinterest and all those pretty details in the various websites you come across. Cover all the different elements from wedding dresses, accessories and food to transportation, décor and stationery. It is a good idea to create different boards on sites like Pinterest and Loverly to segregate your collections into relevant groups.
You may come across new and more interesting ideas every single day. So, this will be an ongoing process. Nonetheless, don’t forget to revisit the data you collect, and subject them to closer scrutiny. Then eliminate those that do not hold your attention, as they did originally. This will help you narrow down your preferences and you will soon identify a pattern emerging.
3.Be open to options
Not all things that match your vision will be available easily. Don’t be disappointed if you find that the items in your mind aren’t all available. To avoid this situation, always make a Plan B. When you plan your wedding imagery, do it with plenty of alternative options. This will improve your chances of finding things you need to complete the effect. At times, it may also be helpful for you to reconsider your options and choose items that are easier on the pocket.
4.Don’t hesitate to get creative
There are no specific rules that govern your choices. You are in charge and have absolute freedom to mix and match, eliminate or combine ideas till you find what you love. Look at the various images and ideas you have and find out what it is that you like most about each of them. If you always thought you wanted pastels at your wedding, but find your collected images to have jewel tones, use this as a cue.
Images will help you recognize what actually appeals to your taste. Use the information you collect to identify patterns, prints, colors and style elements to dictate your wedding style. It is also possible that you will find more than one emerging trend. What do you do in this case? Simply mix and match to create your unique style statement. So, if it is boho and chic, use elements of both types to style your wedding.
5.Get help from the pros
Pulling off the numerous details of a wedding is no easy feat. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself overwhelmed and reeling under pressure. Hire professional help if you find yourself reaching nowhere with your ideas. If not for the entire scene, you can still spend money on just the details that are important.
Wedding planners usually have the talent to find vendors who will gel with you and bring your vision to life. However you can also ask the vendors you’ve already booked to suggest others who they have worked with and are capable of getting the overall picture right. When you discuss your ideas with a potential vendor, see if they accept your vision. Work only with those who believe your idea is feasible, don’t dismiss your ideas or suggest too many changes to plan.
6.Think out of the box
One of the biggest problems with wedding planning these days, is that couples stick to the trends entirely. When they borrow and execute ideas as such, the novelty is lost. Avoid this mistake. While you should be inspired by ideas you find, try to add to it with your own inputs. Get creative and break the mold.
If an idea captures your interest, think of how you can further enhance it. Whether it is adding an unusual accessory to your wedding dress or giving an unexpected twist to the menu, exercise your creative juices. Small but quirky ideas can be remarkably memorable, and all that it takes to shift your wedding experience to a whole other level. Keep it personal, and the custom changes you make will have stronger impact.
7.Sometimes less is more
Whether it is color, texture, prints or patterns, use liberal doses at your wedding. However, make sure it doesn’t overwhelm. When there are too many details, it is likely that the important ones will simply drown in the chaos. So, aim to create just one or two focal points, and let the rest of your wedding arrangements draw on this as inspiration. When working with bright colors, keep the effects contained and use no more than four colors in your wedding to avoid a cluttered look. Remember that it is important to prioritize the factors that mean most to you, and focus on these in your wedding arrangements. The rest should simply be to complement the main things and not compete with it.
8.Remember ideas aren’t always expensive
Executing an unusual or interesting idea at your wedding doesn’t mean it should eat into your budget. With the right approach and planning, you can snag the deal for a good bargain. Handmade details or DIY ideas can be inexpensive when done right.
Set aside time to visit thrift stores, search online and in likely places to find items for less. If you are crafty, use your skills to personalize your décor, wedding favors or add custom touches to your outfit. Shop and think with an open mind. If you are flexible with your choices, it will be easy to find alternative and unusual options for your settings. Not only will these pack a punch, you can also impress your guests with your eye for detail and resourcefulness.
9.Score extra points with unusual items in your décor
Every time we come across an unexpected element in the wedding décor, it stays in our memories. These small items usually end up being the signature of your wedding day scenery. Your guests identify them with the occasion, and they become a strong part of their memories. So, do some brainstorming to identify unusual items that will enhance the décor at your wedding. Take a look at this article on the Woman getting married site for some unique wedding centerpiece ideas. The best part is that most of them are easy to DIY, and give your creativity a big boost.
10.Don’t get caught up in other people’s expectations
Whether it is your mother, your wedding planner or maid of honor, their role is to help you realize your wedding vision. For the full-list of who these likely wedding hijackers are, take a look at this article on the Knot. Don’t succumb to pressure and give-in to what they say, unless you absolutely agree.
Some brides are too timid to step up and say something when others try to take over their wedding. Don’t do this or you will see your ideas going out of the window. Remember that it is your wedding, and the day should reflect your likes and preferences. Keep it that way. The easiest option for you to make this happen is to identify your must-haves earlier on. Welcome opinions that contribute to your vision, but don’t commit to anything that you aren’t sure of. You can always say, “I’ll think of it, thanks,” and get off without committing to the suggestion till you think it through.
11.Prepare well and prepare right
Although you may have a zillion brilliant ideas, it is useless unless you execute them with perfection. Preparation is key to nail perfect results. Use visual cues to recognize whether your ideas will translate well in person. Set up a journal or diary to record these details. If you are good at sketching, try to recreate the picture in your mind through sketches. Or if you prefer to work with existing pictures, spend time comparing the colors and effects. This will help you set it all up easier, when the time is right.
For decorations, make note of the general rules to obey to create a visual setting that will impress. Gather all your props, raw materials and décor essentials to set up samples and ensure they look as good as you expect them to. Take pictures of the arrangements you make and click pictures. They will serve as reference points for when you have to do the real thing and are pressed for time.
12.Think of how it will photograph
After the day, all the details you painstakingly create will live through your photographs. So, it is essential that you plan a photogenic wedding, so the memories are sharp and impressive. When you think of your wedding style and especially the colors, consider this aspect. Think of how certain color combinations will translate in photos. Unless it can be captured as beautifully as it is in person, your theme may not look great in pictures.
Even the food you serve at the wedding, your bouquet and jewelry should look beautiful when displayed. Play with contrasts and textures wisely to create an attractive setting to increase the visual appeal of your wedding scene. Discuss these factors with your photographer prior to the wedding. He can guide you on changes that will improve the overall look of your pictures.
13.Create your own style
We always advise brides to have an inspiration board when planning their wedding. However, like I mentioned earlier, this shouldn’t be the be-all and end-all of your wedding. This is only to motivate you to come up with your unique ideas. Pictures that appeal to your taste will definitely give you a good idea of what you would like to have at your wedding. Once you recognize a pattern and shortlist elements that will be in your wedding, you should go about creating and settling into your own style.
Try to create a cohesive look and feel, and fashion your unique wedding statement. Whether you DIY or hire professionals to do the various details, make sure that it finally reflects who you are as a couple and your personal choices. This will help you avoid a cookie-cutter wedding.
Best for Bride has been helping brides realize their wedding dreams for over a decade now. From bridal dresses to dresses for the bridal party, accessories, wedding favors and even cakes, we have everything you need to plan the perfect wedding day. Visit our website by clicking this link and discover how we can help you have the perfect wedding day.
Today, most weddings are planned around a chosen color scheme. Choosing between colors has been a popular trend for quite some time now. Since there is nothing new other than perhaps find a brand new winning color combination, more and more brides are turning to patterns and print to add a unique touch to their weddings. Patterns and prints bring an extra element of style and sophistication, and this is a surefire way of making an impact, without going to too much trouble.
The best thing about incorporating prints and patterns into your wedding décor is that you have so many options to choose from. Whether you want a classic, elegant wedding theme or a quirky, contemporary style you have plenty of designs to fashion it on. The fun doesn’t end here. By varying the size, dimensions and frequency with which you use prints or patterns in your décor, you can achieve entirely different effects.
Some of the benefits of including prints and patterns into your wedding scheme are:
It is one of the easiest ways to add more texture and interesting colors to your décor
Certain prints are standard representations of themes, and this is an easy way to create the vibe you desire, for your wedding. For example, spring flowers scream garden celebrations, and using this print in your décor can instantly set the right ambiance at your venue
It is easier to mix and match colors around a pattern or print, than when using a single color, which will involve more detailed matching of elements
With pattern and print, a little goes a long way. You can make a powerful statement by using prints and patterns in moderation
Prints allow you to keep your base color simple, while adding accents in a fun way to your wedding theme
There are hundreds of options in prints and patterns to choose from, and it is pretty exciting to explore the options. Depending on the style of wedding you have, you can consider the following options.
Traditional prints
Basket weaves: Soft and elegant, basket weaves are a perfect pattern to add subtle texture to your wedding décor elements. You can use this print in table linen, in the rugs and even in the cake for a dramatic and elegant finish.
Image Credits: Tracy Hunter, via Flickr
Art deco: Bring neat and stylish Gatsby inspired motifs to your wedding as the patterns that will be highlighted in your décor. Crisp, clean and easy to incorporate, you can try the same print in different colors, or stick to just one print and color combination throughout.
This popular Arabic weaving pattern is a beautiful traditional icon that is both elegant and sophisticated. It is a perfect choice for your wedding invitations and stationery. Use it in lavish doses throughout your décor for a regal vibe.
An eternal vintage favorite, lace can jazz up the scene with pretty floral details in your table décor, bouquets, centerpieces and even wedding cake design in an instant. For brides who want a modern update to traditional lace designs, consider laser-cut lace details that are crisp with super-fine details
Rolls of crochet lace can be used to tie together wedding favors, embellish envelopes and even to secure silverware to the table napkins.
Ikat
Add a punch of color to your wedding scene with ikat handloom prints that are an all-time favorite with the Boho bride. Perfect for a colorful wedding, and there is an endless variety of prints to choose from.
This invitation from the Best for Bride collection can be ordered here.
Modern patterns
Greek key
The new favorite in interior designing, the Greek key print is a perfect choice for the bride who wants a subtle pattern with symmetry, that makes it balanced and interesting. Start off with an envelope seal to your chosen wedding invitation format, and build the rest of the scene at your wedding around this pattern.
Jazz up your modern wedding with prints from the animal world, including zebra prints, leopard prints, tiger stripes or giraffe prints for a chic vibe. It is exciting and interesting, and totally cool! Step away from the original colors and pep it up with bright, unusual colors for an even more interesting touch.
This envelope liner can be used with your invitations to give your guests a sneak peek at the theme of your wedding. Available here at Best for Bride.
Geometric prints
The go-to pattern for modern and stylish celebrations. The straight edges and neat corners of modern geometric prints will find favor with the bride who is organized and loves to go with neat, but pretty trends.
Universal prints that work for both contemporary and traditional brides
Chevron
A versatile print that can easily be modern or classic depending on how it is used, and the colors chosen in it. Chevron in gold and white is classic, while the colored versions are playful and fun. Use it everywhere, from your table linen, to the backdrop and even add it to the edible favors, brides shoes or bridesmaids dresses.
Image Credits: Cooking Cinderella, via Flickr
Checks
Big or small, check prints are a must-have for garden weddings and outdoor ceremonies. Do it big, in ample doses everywhere from the favor bags to table cloth, or keep it in moderation by adding it to the bunting and napkins. Color combinations like red and white are fun, while black and white or tartan prints are classic.
Polka dots
One of our favorite all-time prints, polka dots are a happy pattern that can bring a soft contrast and step up the fun element at any venue. They can be either whimsical and fun, or stylish and classic, depending on how the colors are mixed to create the combination.
Stripes
Another classic design that can be used in both modern and classic weddings with ease, stripes are the perfect pattern choice to either dress up or dress down your wedding theme and create the vibe you want. There are infinite options to consider, and there is no scope for mistakes.
Florals
Flowers and weddings are a match made in heaven, and you can make the most of this bounty of nature by adding it in lavish doses to your wedding theme. Apart from incorporating it into the décor and stationery, we think you should also consider dressing up your pretty bridesmaids in flower print dresses. Your bridesmaids will go crazy over this printed dress from the Alfred Sung bridesmaids collection. Check it out here.
Now that we’ve had a detailed look at a handful of beautiful prints that would be great for your wedding day, let us discuss a few important things that you should keep in mind when using prints and patterns.
Follow these tips and you are sure to do it right.
1.Have a color scheme in mind: When doing patterns and print, it is easy to go overboard. If you do, you will end up with a cluttered scheme and the entire effect will be spoiled. To avoid this, pick a scheme with a maximum of four colors to mix and match. Consider how practical it is to work with these colors, and where you can add each combination. Sketch the imagery in your mind, and collect inspiration from available sources on your wedding inspiration board. Try out different combinations, till you find the right one that appeals most to you. Then proceed with the plan.
2.Do patterns and prints in the right doses: Getting the most of patterns and prints is possible, only when you do the combinations in moderation. Prints can freshen up the scenery when they are mixed with a solid base color, that offsets the busy look. Collect swatches in various combinations and set it up against plain solid colors, till you find the right mix that you can use in different places through the décor.
3.Start with the stationery: We said earlier that your invitation is the right place to offer your guests a sneak peek into the prints you will employ at your wedding. So, make sure you choose an invitation, envelope seal or envelope liner that will feature the chosen theme element. Apart from that you can further dress up your wedding venue with place cards, coasters, menus and programs centered around the theme. This is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to add patterns and prints into your décor.
4.Place it where it will be noticed: Some clever planning is necessary for this part. To make a statement with prints and patterns, you should not just float it around in the background. You should place it where it will be most noticeable. Place it against items that are simple and plain, so the prints stand out against them. For example, display the patterns as cupcake tiers in the candy buffet, or add it as ribbons on a plain favor bag. Most prints, including stripes, polka dots and chevron, can be incorporated into wedding cakes. Do this in the right dose, and it will be a statement look that everyone will appreciate.
5.Use it in unexpected ways: This is one of the quickest ways to make sure the theme comes alive. Do a little brainstorming to add your central theme into places where your guests will least expect to see it, and it will not go unnoticed. Some places to add the little element of surprise are in your centerpieces, by adding it to the vases in which the flowers will be displayed. You can also use it in lavish doses in the program and menu cards, as it will not escape being noticed when your guests read through them.
6.Wear it well: If you have your mind set on a white wedding dress, don’t compromise on that to incorporate pattern. Instead think of other ways in which you can cleverly add prints to your look. Accessories like shoes, sashes and bouquets can be dressed up with the pattern you choose, thus integrating your look with the theme you have chosen. Something as simple as tying a fabric with the chosen print around your bouquet, is all it takes to update your look and match it to the theme. For your groom, consider a patterned tie or printed shirt in the chosen theme. Similarly you can have your bridesmaids in dresses that feature the chosen pattern or gift them accessories that sport the print.
With these tips in mind, you are all set to add the right prints and patterns to your wedding. The best thing about using this idea is that even a little goes a long way. You do not need elaborate plans or go through yards of fabric swatches to find the one combination that will make your wedding truly unique. Having a theme that works, couldn’t get easier than this, and it is the perfect way to make the right statement.
Our invitation suite has wedding stationery in almost every print, pattern and color you can possibly imagine. Finding your dream color and print combination couldn’t get any easier than this. Similarly, you will find an endless gallery of options in wedding favors, reception décor, table and aisle decorations and more in our wedding favors shop. So, don’t forget to check out the different options you can consider, for your chosen theme and colors. Bring your wedding vision to life through the different wedding services we offer at Best for Bride. Visit our home page today, to find everything you need.
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