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?
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.
Isn’t it refreshing to see an unconventional wedding palette? Perfect for the casual wedding theme, polka dots are a pattern that can liven up any atmosphere. Whether it is done in just two colors or a variation of several colors, it is always a fun choice that we cannot, but love. And for brides who can’t convince their to-be-husbands that polka dots is the way to go for your wedding, you can still enjoy your love affair with this mesmerizing pattern by having a polka-dot studded bridal shower or engagement party.
So, here is a collection of 10 fantastic polka dot ideas to inspire the quirky bride, whether it is for her wedding or any of the events leading up to it. Get ready to swoon!
1.Fun and festive wedding cake
Choose a contrasting combination of colors for a polka dot wedding cake like that featured in the picture here. Look at how the assorted polka dot colors frame the white frosting elegantly? Matching the polka dot colors on the cake to the design on the ribbon that decorates the cake, instantly adds more style to it. Resembling a gift box, the best part about this cake is that it isn’t too complex to create, but has an unusually interesting overall finish. So, if you are after a budget friendly option, this design is one to consider.
Image Credits: Suzanne’s Bespoke Bakery, via Flickr
2.Spotted cupcakes
Dessert buffets may no longer be as popular as they once were, but if you have one at your polka dot theme wedding, these fun spotted cupcakes are a must-have. The design is so simple, yet unusual, and we are sure your baker will be able to whip them up for little to no cost. Despite all this, the impact of the m&m studded cupcakes will be mind-blowing. If you aren’t up for this idea at your wedding, it will certainly work out for your colorful bridal shower on the polka dot theme. What do you say?
3.Spot this save-the-card
In an interesting twist to the polka dot style, this spot and check polka dot save-the-date photo card will be an instant hit with your guests. This design features emerald and canary ink colors to create the exciting combination featured here. However, you may make your pick from the many colors available to suit your wedding color palette, and you will have a save-the-date that is high on style and impact, and attractive at first sight. Follow up with a matching RSVP card and a wedding invite in the same colors as this invitation card, and find respite for your obsession with polka dots. This save-the-date card can be ordered online from our collection at Best for Bride. To do so, or to take a look at the hundreds of other attractive options we offer, check out this link.
4.Bling invitation card with golden dots
If you are a bride who loves bling, here is a wedding invitation that is a charming representation of dots with plenty of the “bling” factor. While the invitation wording is done on white, it is framed elegantly within a golden polka dot and textured gold border. The best part of this design is that the beautiful golden dots follows through the invitation into the envelope, creating a charming overall effect. With golden lettering as well, this is a rich and luxurious choice that your guests simply cannot miss noticing. To place your order or to find out more details about this wedding invitation card, visit our wedding invitation collection at this link.
5.Spots on the bride-to-be shower book
Here is an accessory that will blend into a polka dot theme bridal shower seamlessly. This pink and white polka dot bridal shower guest book features a modern bride-to-be illustration that is simply adorable. With the space to hold up to 55 guest signatures, it will easily be enough for all the guests at the shower. It will also be a pretty keepsake that will always remind you of the interesting party you celebrated with your favorite girls. To find out more details about this guest book, or to order it for your celebration, take a look at this link.
6.Spotted china for a delightful brunch
If you are bold enough to side-step the conventional wedding day colors and patterns for polka dots, you would most likely be open to the idea of a wedding brunch instead of the usual reception. Not only is this budget-friendly, there are a whole set of other reasons too, that make the idea attractive. Read all about why you should consider having a wedding brunch, in this previous post of ours. If you like this idea, think of using polka dot china to serve your delicious breakfast menu in. If it is an outdoor wedding brunch, it will simply add oodles of color to the overall setting, and make the party more lively. In case this isn’t possible we have other suggestions to make your tablescape work. Nevertheless, this is an option that you should consider, as it is a definite winner.
7.Dots and spots on napkins
If the idea of the spotted china is out of reach, turn to the next best thing instead. Go all the way with a table cloth decorated with dots, or do it in moderate doses with polka dot table napkins instead. We prefer the latter, as it makes the polka dot effect more elegant and sophisticated. This is also your chance to add some glitter and glamor to your reception tables, but with subtlety. Golden polka dots on a solid color napkin would look classy, while still keeping the fun theme alive at your party.
Image Credits: Shari’s Berries, via Flickr
8.Polka dot metal boat as wedding favor
Here is the perfect polka dot favor for those couples who want something that matches a nautical theme. While the groom enjoys his share of fun with a sailing or ocean theme, you can add a soft touch of your own with this as a display accessory at your wedding reception. These quaint blue and white polka dot metal boats can do double duty as both a thematic place setting, and as a favor for the guests to take home after the party. Stuff it with mints or candy and personalize it with a thank you note on the flag, and you have a wonderful favor that your guests will love. For more details on this product, check out our wedding favors page here.
9.Spotted cellophane bag insert
The simplest way to add dotted details to your favor table is to use polka dot inserts in cellophane bags, like shown here. The simple addition of these economically priced bag inserts can liven up a plain cellophane bag and make it a work of art. With custom options to choose from four different colors, these favor inserts are a perfect addition to any color palette. It can also be your little polka dot detail, if you don’t want polka dots ruling the entire wedding scenery. With such a pretty cover to carry candy off the dessert spread, your guests will love your attention to detail. Whichever color you choose for the spots, this will add a welcome dose of color to your desert table and really make it pop. You can also add a small bit of information and a thank you message on the insert to complete the look. For more details on placing your order and the various colors that this item is available in, please visit our online shop by clicking this link. You can also use matching polka dot straws for the beverages at your party. Whether you choose to serve these straws by themselves, or with little flags, their presence will not go unnoticed. This will allow you to mix and match the details, and still achieve a cohesive effect that your guests will not miss.
10.Bright and beautiful spotted bridesmaids dresses
Polka dots may not be standard bridesmaid stuff, which is what makes it so much fun. It is an easy, and obvious way of adding your favorite detail into your wedding day and making it totally unique. Your bridesmaids will be happy to buy a dress that they can definitely use again, and you have a world of options to choose from. If you have your mind set on an outdoor spring or summer wedding, bridesmaids dresses such as that shown here will be a pleasant addition to the overall picture. This dress also has a vintage charm with the puff sleeves and bigger and bolder dots on the fabric. With bright colors like pink, turquoise or orange appearing on a white or cream background, the entire atmosphere will resonate with fun and joy. As interesting as this idea is, remember not to take the detail overboard. Balance out the polka dots with suitable addition of a solid color, that blends well into the overall picture. Also remember that it may not be a great idea to go with full-length gowns, as it can look overwhelming. Stick with cocktail length dresses instead. You can also think of matching the bridesmaids accessories to the color of the polka dots.
11.Polka dot manicure
Wearing a polka dot wedding dress may be stretching the theme a little too much. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have any thing dotty on yourself. Surprise your guests with your own unique polka dot detail, through your wedding day manicure. Polka dot nails look fantastic, and having this done will easily make it a fashion statement on your wedding day. The options are endless, as you can choose any possible base color and polka dots in any color, so it blends into your wedding theme. Our favorite combinations include white with black dots and black dots on gold. You can choose to keep it simple with just a border of polkas at the nail base or on the end of the nails. The other option is to keep it uniform and have it all over your nails. You can also try add polka dots of different sizes and in mixed colors, for more impact. It will be a delightful addition, either way. Make sure that you have your manicure done closer to the wedding day, so that your nails look fresh and the dots are details that are obvious and attractive.
12. Lucky gnome with polka hat
To keep your décor interesting, but not overwhelming, choose décor elements that bring in the effect softly. Accessories and charms like this adorable little procelain gnome featured here, can achieve this effect perfectly. Although the polka dot effect is seen only on his hat, it is still striking and just enough to make it significant in any setting. Place him as part of the centerpieces at your venue, or gift him as a party favor that carries a good wish to the bearer, and it will be a gift that everyone will appreciate. It is possible to customize the message he carries to one that you choose. For more details, visit this link at Best for bride.
Hope this has given you enough inspiration to plan your wedding with this ever-trendy and interesting detail.
For more interesting ideas and everything wedding-related, keep dropping in at Best for Bride. Beginning with wedding dresses, accessories and bridal party attires, we bring you all that you need for planning the perfect wedding day. We also bring you interesting ideas, latest trends and fabulous pictures from real weddings to inspire you as you begin to plan the most special day of your life. Join us to explore all that the world of weddings has to offer you.
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