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 milestone event. So, it is only natural that the guests who attend it will want to gift you something valuable and useful on this occasion. A wedding registry is a convenient deal for both the couple and their guests. When you set up a wedding registry, it is easy for your guests to find something that you will appreciate and use in the new chapter of your life. So, if you thought you do not need a wedding registry, you ought to rethink this decision.
Today we look at the do’s and don’ts when setting up a wedding registry as well as some important information you should know about it.
When should you start your wedding registry
While some of your guests will wait till the last minute to get you your gift, others will prefer to complete the task ahead of time. It is best to get your registry ready before you have any wedding-related celebration, like an engagement party. In any case, your registry should be ready seven to nine months before the wedding. Now, if you prefer to wait and do things at leisure, this Brides article suggests that your registry should still be ready in time for your bridal shower. This will ensure your guests have enough time to check it out and find a suitable gift.
Top places to register for wedding gifts
There are several places where you can register for wedding gifts. So, don’t be hasty or limit your choices without first exploring your options. Create a curated list of items that will help you as a couple, and find places where these are available. Once you know what you want, we suggest that you restrict your registry to a few online and in-store locations where the items are available. Many of the suggested retailers offer extra discounts, perks and free gifts for registering with them. So, add it to your watch list.
Wedding registry Etiquette—Do’s and Don’ts couples should know
Do choose from low, medium and high-end stores
Many couples often wonder how many gifts they should register for their wedding. We think it is better to register for more gifts than just what you need. A good rule of thumb is to register for more gifts than you have guests. Your guests will then find it easy to locate an item you prefer. While providing a wide range of items, you should also pick items of varied pricing. Include low, medium and high-end stores to keep your list diverse. This will allow your guests to find a gift that fits their budget without much difficulty. Your guests will also appreciate the fact that you do not expect them to shell out a fortune to get you an expensive gift, if you only register with a high-end store.
Don’t forget to include high-ticket items as well
While it is sensible to add gifts of all price ranges into your list, this doesn’t mean you should exclude expensive gifts entirely. It is likely that there may be at least a few friends, family members or work associates who would prefer to gift you a generous gift. Give them the opportunity to find something that fits their idea by providing at least a few high-end items in your list. As long as your list also has moderately priced items, the rest of your guests can overlook these options and go with one that is within their budget.
Do keep the wedding registry information out of the invitation
It may seem easy to simply put your wedding registry information in the wedding invitation. However, we do not recommend this as it isn’t considered good wedding etiquette. Some experts suggest it is alright to add your wedding registry details to an invitation insert, but never directly on the invitation. Include the name under which the registry is listed, so it is easy for your guests to find the right one.The ideal place to provide your wedding registry details is on your wedding website. You can also share this information with your family and bridal party. They can then pass it on to anyone who asks for it. Although most guests won’t ask you for this detail directly, there is no harm in telling them if a guest chooses to ask you directly.
Don’t ask for money in your registry
Whether you already have all that you need in your home or would prefer cash over gifts, we do not recommending asking for cash in your registry. The traditional expectation from guests is to give a gift in kind, and this is what most prefer. However, if you think its better to receive money, consider registering with a financial registry. This greatly reduces the awkwardness of the situation. These non-traditional registries will allow you to pool your gift money together and buy something bigger. Honeyfund allows couples to register for honeymoon extras through guest gift giving.
Your wedding registry needn’t just have items that are useful for you right now. So don’t limit your options. Think long-term and create a wedding registry ideas list first. Consider what you may need in the years to come. Remember to include special occasions, items you will need for entertaining or even for when your family grows. Set up your registry accordingly, so your guests can get you gifts that may be useful later, if not immediately.
Don’t forget to update your registry on a regular basis
Just so you don’t end up with duplicates of the same item, it is important to review your registry regularly. As you do, remove items that have already been bought and include new items if any. It is a good idea to set up your registry so that you receive updates when an item is purchased. With this option, you will know when to update your registry without personally checking it every time. As the wedding approaches you will have to review your registry more frequently, and keep updating it every time a gift is bought by your guests.
Do keep track of who sent which gift
It is common courtesy and essential wedding etiquette to send thank you notes for all the gifts you received. For this, you should maintain a list to record who sent you what, just as you receive each gift. Either create a list on your mobile device or computer for the purpose. Or write down the names and the name of the gift as and when you receive each of them. At your bridal shower, don’t forget to have one of your bridesmaids note down who got you what if you open the gifts at the venue.
Don’t delay writing your thank you notes
Since thank you notes are time-consuming, it is a good idea to start writing them before the wedding. Common courtesy is to send the thank you notes out soon after you return from your honeymoon. Start with your thank you notes just as your gifts begin arriving. By completing a certain number every week, it will be easier for you to finish them. You can then put them in envelopes and get them ready in time for the wedding. All you have to do afterwards is to post the notes once you are back from your honeymoon.
DO focus on gifts that are useful to you as a couple
The idea of a wedding gift is to give the couples something that will help them grow as a family. Guests also usually prefer to gift items that do not have an expiry date attached to it. So, it isn’t really appropriate to ask for gifts that suit just one of you. Instead focus on items that are useful for entertaining, for your new home or that contribute to a family experience like a trip. Don’t add personal items like shoes, shades, handbags or makeup to your registry.
Don’t hesitate to edit your registry if you have second-thoughts about certain items on it
One good way to avoid regret is to take some time when creating your wedding registry. You may feel that you have a complete registry. However, let it sit for a day or two and then get back to it. This will give you time to recollect if you have missed out anything. Sometimes, it may also be better to edit out certain items from the list, when you go over the list again.
Do take inventory of what you own before setting up your registry
It isn’t always easy to decide what should and what doesn’t have to go on a registry. After looking at what you need in your new life as a couple, also take inventory of the things you already own. As you go through it, you will most likely notice that some of the stuff you already use needs replacing. You may also be adjusting with what you have in certain cases. Use your wedding registry to upgrade these things to serve you better when you are a couple.
Do mix the types of gifts you have on your registry
Everyone has a certain idea of what is an ideal gift. Hence, your guests may prefer certain types of gifts to give you for your wedding. To satisfy this need, keep the items in your registry mixed and there will be a choice that suits everyone. From essentials for a home like towels and linens, add items for entertaining and partying as well as household tools, dishes and equipment that will be useful in your new life together. Heavy-duty kitchenware, basic set of china and good quality bed sheets are definitely useful for all newly weds. So, definitely add these to your list.
Don’t forget to read up on the store’s policies before registering there
If a store stocks most of the things you need, also find out about their shipping, exchange and return policy before registering there. Your guests will prefer to shop at a place where their gifts will be shipped directly to your address. Take a close look at the exchange policies. In case you end up with duplicates of a gift, the exchange or return policy is important to help you switch it out for something else. It will not be easy to exchange your gifts if they allow limited time for it. So, check this out as well. Some stores also offer incentives and discount programs that will give you better benefits when you register with them. Do your research and you can make the most of the available options.
We understand how busy and taxing it is to be a bride, and in most cases the registry isn’t always on the top of your priorities. However, it is folly to let this opportunity slide. Follow this rule list and you shouldn’t have any trouble with setting up and making the most of your wedding registry.
For more updates, advice and help on everything wedding-related, keep visiting us here on the Best for Bride blog. The Best for Bride website is your one-stop wedding destination, featuring most modern wedding dresses, bridal party attires, bridal accessories and everything the modern bride needs for her special day. From designer labels to in-house custom creations, we strive to help you realize the perfect wedding day with our extensive range of wedding services. Visit our website today, to find out how we can help you.
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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