Photo: Haley Sheffield Formal group photos
at weddings are always fun (and a must of course), but the wedding
photos you're going to look back on and really love are those
in-the-moment group shots of you and your squad. Whether it's the boys
chilling and smoking cigars together at the reception or you and your
sorority sisters all jumping up in the air at the same time, here are
the group party shots you've got to remember to capture for your own
good.
1. Friend groups
Wedding planner Marilisa Schachinger of Martel Event
personally loves when couples want to do a fun group shot with either
the bride's sorority sisters, the groom's med school cohort or even the
group of childhood friends that you grew up going on vacations with! "As
members of the group get married over the years, keep the tradition at
each friend's wedding so you can see the group transform thanks to the
photos of the memories. Be sure to talk to your photographer
about group shots you'd love captured during the wedding reception and
give the appropriate people a heads up about potential timing and a
place to meet. For example, tell everyone to meet during the band's
first break by the bar."
2. All the kids
If your wedding is kid-friendly,
then this one is a must! Gather up all the kids on the dance floor and
have your photographer take a picture of you and the groom with them.
"It's nice to see later on how much they've grown and how young they
were when they shared your special day with you," points out planner
Brett Galley from Hollywood Pop Gallery. Plus, it's just too cute!
3. The whole gang (AKA all your guests!)
Having a semi-small wedding?
Then get the whole gang together for a picture of everyone. "Sometimes
it's possible for the band or DJ to ask all of the guests to join the
bride and groom on the dance floor for a group shot," says Bucks County
wedding photographer Kate Leigh. "This can be a nice replacement of the old tradition of taking table shots."
4. Random pairings
So many brides get caught up on shot lists to cover the basics (i.e.
bride with bridesmaids, the invitations, etc.), but some favorites are
always the bride alone with the groomsmen and the groom photo bombing the bridesmaids, notes Kate Uhry of Kate Uhry Photography. "Have fun with it! When you stay too focused on shot lists you miss out on some really fun spontaneous moments."
5. The standard "party pic"
Whether it's one of all the boys kicking back and smoking cigars or a
shot of you and your besties toasting with a drink in hand or your arms
wrapped around each other on the dance floor, you'll want to get that
group shot you'd get at any other party with your favorite peeps in the
world. Think much less formal and way more relaxed. The kind of picture
you put in a frame because the emotions really shine through and it's
anything but staged.
It’s true what they say: Home is where the heart is.
For couples who want a wedding with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, an
at-home celebration is a perfect fit ― whether it’s their backyard,
their parents’ house or one belonging to another family member or dear
friend.
Below, meet 12 lovely couples who made a house a home when they got married there.
“The
best thing about getting married at home would be the fact that we now
have such incredible memories shared with our family and friends within
our house. It was also a comforting feeling to know that at the end of
the night our bed was just a few feet away.” — Dani Penic
“There
was literally no other place we considered getting married besides our
own backyard! We had just built our house and spent the year before
painstakingly remodeling. Once the house was completed, we both knew the
best way to start our news lives together would be to say our vows to
each other on the steps of the home we’d built together in front of our
friends and family. It was a perfect beginning!” — Summer Simmons
“We
had our first kiss playing spin the bottle at my parents’ house on Pine
Street, and Mount Prospect, Illinois is where we grew up together. My
block had always thrown block parties for other events. It just seemed
so much more meaningful to be home for our big day than anywhere else.”
— Susie Osei
“We
added yet another happy memory to a place already full of them. I love
being reminded of our wedding every time we visit my parents now. That
and maybe our wedding party dragging us into the pool as the last song
played.” — Jonathan Aakre
“We
wanted to have it at home because it’s the house my grandfather built
and where both my mother and I grew up. We wanted it to be an intimate
affair with only our closest relations and friends who have been
involved in our lives, sharing this special day with us.” — Aru de Silva
“We
had spent almost our entire relationship living together in the
apartment we ended up getting married in. Throughout our eight years
together, the space evolved just as much as we did individually and as a
couple. We are avid collectors, so by the time we decided to tie the
knot, there was no better space that was a perfect physical
representation of who we are and where we had been along the way.” — Kristen Romaniszak
“After
the wedding, my mom left remnants of it around: a sign out in front
that reads ‘we’re so glad you’re here!’, some ribbons hanging in the
trees, strings of lights, and art installations my friends made. Some of
the magic of the day hasn’t faded since there are these little
reminders of how beautiful all the details were. It also shows just how
much my mom loved hosting it!” — Mallory Nezam
“Both
of us had already been previously married and had the big, expensive
weddings in the past. We both hated the thought of spending so much
money again and, instead, chose to have a more intimate experience with
some homemade touches and save the money for the honeymoon.” — Lisa Papotto
“We
chose to start our marriage off in the most natural way possible: by
hosting our wedding at our home. We love our lives here, and we feel
like that is something worth celebrating, just as much as our legal
union.” — Whitney Leigh Morris
“Getting
married on my parents’ acreage has always been a dream. My husband and I
were high school sweethearts, we grew up and fell in love spending time
there.” — Madison Lavelle
“My
husband and I wanted to have a very practical wedding and not spend a
ludicrous amount of money on one day. We decided to focus on a down
payment on a house rather than an extravagant wedding.” — Krystle Simms
12 Maighread Simpson Photography
“We
got married at home because we wanted an informal, relaxed, friendly
and open wedding. We bought our property two years earlier (actually to
the day of the wedding) and the place has been a labor of love for us.
We wanted everyone to come and enjoy the surroundings and have fun.” — Jan Baird
After months of planning for one of the biggest days of your life, it
goes by like a flash. So to soak up that newlywed glow, and finish out
your big day in a luxurious suite on your wedding night. For Los Angeles
brides, we've rounded up the most luxurious hotels for your first night
as a married couple.
The London West Hollywood
For the fashion-forward couple, the Vivienne Westwood suite in this
centrally-located spot. This is a suite you'll want to get ready in
before your ceremony — and then come back to in the wee hours of the
night. This grand room has its own private patio that is big enough to
have an intimate brunch for friends and family the next day (yes, that
big!). If you venture out of your room, The London also boasts one of
the best rooftop pool areas in Los Angeles. And last (but definitely not
least), because the room is an homage to the British fashion designer
herself, everyone who stays in the suite gets a private shopping trip to
its nearby namesake boutique on Melrose Ave, as well as a complimentary
his and hers gifts. Read real brides' reviews here! Shutters on the Beach
Is there anything more romantic than waking up to the crashing waves of
the Pacific Ocean the morning after your wedding day? Book the Pacific
View Suite at Shutters in Santa Monica and that's precisely what you'll
get. This quintessential beachfront hotel boasts a dedicated catering
staff, complete with complimentary transportation using the hotel car
(yep, it's a Tesla). If you're up for a little exercise the following
day, you and your honey can borrow Budnitz Bicycles beach cruisers and
peddle along the California coast — or just take some of the plush
cotton towels and plop down in the sand right outside your room. Read real brides' reviews here!
The Culver Hotel
This hidden gem is ideal for any Old Hollywood fans, as this 1924
National Historic Landmark space has had a variety of celeb owners
including Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne. Decorated in chic-but-cozy
jewel tones, the best suite for newlyweds is 610 (make sure to ask for
the champagne and truffles when you arrive). Since Culver City is a
relatively central location, the staff will happily set you up with
transportation for a morning hike followed by high tea in the Grand
Lobby. Read real brides' reviews here!
The Line
If you're looking for more of an urban experience on your wedding night,
this Koreatown hotel has great mid-century style and is located in a
walkable neighborhood. The room to grab is the Hollywood View Suite —
offering floor-to-ceiling windows (where you'll casually be gazing at
the iconic Hollywood sign while you sip complimentary champagne from
your bed). The hotel staff will also sprinkle your room with rose petals
and even serve you breakfast in bed the next day. However, if you're a
foodie, this hotel boasts the restaurant Pot, conceptualized by famed
chef Roy Choi as well as one of Los Angeles' prettier dining rooms, The
Commissary, which is set in a glass greenhouse right next to the pool.
The Hotel Bel Air
If the two of you want a little hideaway, this beautiful spot — tucked
away in Bel-Air, one of Los Angeles' most exclusive neighborhoods — is
your pick. With 12 acres of rolling gardens, this glamorous hotel houses
a Wolfgang Puck restaurant and world-renowned spa by La Prairie. We
suggest signing up for the Couple's Retreat Package the morning after
your wedding, which includes a 1-hour couples' massage followed by an
outdoor hydrotherapy bath — topped off with the hotel's signature
outdoor picnic brunch. Read real brides' reviews here!
Life is like a box of chocolates: You never know when Tom Hanks is going to jog into your wedding photos.
Photographer Meg Miller had
what can only be described as the ultimate New York City celebrity
moment over the weekend when Hanks approached the bride and groom she
was photographing in Central Park.
Miller said joggers in the
park were mostly staying far away from the shoot, but at one point she
put her camera down to let “this guy” pass when he came too close to the
couple.
Except the guy didn’t pass. Instead, he approached the newlyweds,
Elisabeth and Ryan, “took off his hat, just leaned right into the group
and said ‘Hi, I’m Tom Hanks,’” she said.
Meg Miller Photography
According to Miller, he then
proceeded to shake hands, kissed the bride’s hand and wished the pair
congratulations ― even offering up a few wedding services of his own.
“He asked if they needed a wedding officiant, because he is an ordained minister,” she said with a laugh.
After taking a selfie with the couple, which he posted
on his own Instagram, Hanks just “sort of took off running,” Miller
said. “Had he just run past us we would have never known it was him.”
Miller told The Huffington
Post the experience was pretty much a first for her. While she’s had
minor celebrity encounters at other nuptials she’s worked, they were “no
Tom Hanks-level celebrity.”
Thanks to a video taken by the couple’s videographer, First Day Films, the unforgettable moment has been immortalized on film, too. Just try not to smile over the bride’s reaction faces.
Nothing like a “Big”surprise on your wedding day, eh? Head to Miller’s site and Instagram to see more of her work. And congrats from us, too, Elisabeth and Ryan!
As Irene S. Levine, Ph.D., psychologist, friendship expert, and creator of The Friendship Blog, points out, friends are our chosen family. And just as we'd work to impress and befriend our in-laws, it's just as important to work to buddy up to our partner's pals.
"When your relationship with him becomes serious, you don't want him
[or her] to lose meaningful friendships that have helped shape the
person you've come to love," she explains. "Those friends will help make
your life as a couple more interesting and intellectually stimulating.
You'll also be able to count on them for support."
With that in mind, here are six easy ways to become BFF (or pretty darn close) with your partner's friends.
1. Discover their interests.
Levine suggests sleuthing out (or simply asking) what your partner's
friends enjoy. "Many of their interests may dovetail with your own," she
says, "and that will give you fodder for discussion and create
opportunities for you to spend time together." What's more, if you can
share an activity together, you'll created a history you can reminisce
over late, points out Jane Greer, Ph.D, relationship expert and author of What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your Relationship.
2. Take note of their birthdays.
When it comes to their birthdays, do more than leave them a friendly
message on Facebook. Go above and beyond, and really make a good
impression, by giving each friend a gift on his or her birthday. When
you do, says Greer, "they'll feel special to you as well as your
partner." 3. Make them feel welcome in your home.
You may not want your partner's buddies over all the time. But when they
are there, you do want them to be comfortable. So, "if your partner was
single and his friends were accustomed to coming over to hang out
without calling, it might entail defining new boundaries that feel
comfortable for you and your partner," says Levine. "That way, you'll
avoid uncomfortable or awkward visits yet make them feel welcome and
comfortable."
4. Give your partner license to have a regular guy's night out.
Just as you need a girl's night out,
so does your partner need alone time with his friends. "There will be
times when guys want to be together and talk about the old times or
pursue activities that would hold little interest for you," says Levine.
Your partner and his friends will appreciate you giving them that time
without a fight. Plus, there could be something in it for you, too,
Levine says. "Your partner may even want to bounce ideas off his friends
that will help strengthen his relationship with you," she says.
5. Add them to the invite list.
If you're having a get-together at your home with your BFFs, be sure to
add your partner's friends to the guest list, too. "They'll appreciate
being a part of your world, and they'll be able to meet your friends and
family, if possible, so they get a full picture of your life," explains
Greer. Levine says you can extend the invitations to holidays, such as Friendsgiving or even a Christmastime occasion, too. "Shared traditions help strengthen friendships," she says.
6. Nurture friendships with their girlfriends and wives.
Extending your social circle past your partner's friends and onto their
significant others means you'll be able to better enjoy group dates and
get-togethers. "Yes, it can be complicated to maintain relationships as
couples," says Levine. "It requires the meshing of multiple
personalities, but these relationships can be especially enriching to
couples."
After-parties are every couple's favorite way to keep the wedding festivities going.
After all, who wants to stop celebrating when the lights come up at
midnight? But while it sounds like a great idea a few months out, the
day of your wedding might be a different story. So can you decide
last-minute to skip your own after-party? Our experts weigh in.
Whether you're tired, overwhelmed by the attention, or are feeling a little too tipsy,
there's nothing forcing you to attend your own after-party — but that
doesn't mean it's canceled! Instead, let someone (your maid of honor or
best man, for example) who will be attending know that the
guests of honor won't be making an appearance so they can let the rest
of your guests know not to expect you. You should also make sure they
let the venue manager know you won't be attending, so they know not to
try to find you with any questions. Make a point to say goodbye to
people as your reception is ending so you can catch any guests you might
have missed throughout the night, then head to your room and enjoy a
few extra hours of sleep!
Of course, you may want to stop by for just a few minutes to get the
after-party going before you head to bed. Grab a water or a club soda
from the bar if one more drink just isn't appealing, make the rounds
quickly, and then make your exit. Who knows, you may get a second wind!
While you can't force guests to stay all night,
even with an open bar, have your wedding party serve as unofficial
hosts to welcome guests and make sure everyone is having a blast. And
make sure to collect all of those late-night stories during your
morning-after brunch!
A handfasting ceremony has its roots in ancient Celtic tradition,
symbolizing the binding together of two people (and the origin of the
phrase "tying the knot!"). While it is most often included in Wiccan or
Pagan ceremonies, today, it has become more mainstream and pops up
alongside both religious and secular vows and readings.
During the ceremony, the officiant begins by explaining the ritual
and what it means to the couple. This statement often includes the
notion of the couple binding their lives together and the union of their
hopes and desires. The officiant then invites the couple to join hands,
which symbolizes their free will to enter into the marriage. Many opt
to cross hands, taking your fiancé's right hand in your right hand and
his left hand in your left hand. You could also opt to stand next to one
another, joining one of your right hands with the other's left, and
have your hands bound that way, around your wrists.
From here, the officiant reads a series of vows as cords are wrapped
around the couple's hands. You could opt to use a separate cord for each
vow, or twist or braid together a few cords
and wrap them as one around your hands. Then, your officiant may make
an additional statement about the completion of the binding and the
commitment it symbolizes.
After your hands are bound, you can proceed to exchange additional
vows, or use your handfasting as the vows you'll exchange and move
directly to the ring exchange.
The ring is on your finger and the planning is underway—time to get your guests in the loop. Your first step: Send a wedding save-the-date card.
This pre-invitation officially announces your wedding date and lets
guests know that they will, in fact, be invited to the celebration. Here
are the answers to your most-asked etiquette questions.
Where to Start
Q. Do we have to send a save-the-date?
As
destination weddings
and three-day weekend affairs have become more standard, so have
save-the-dates. And if you're marrying during high-travel times like a
holiday weekend or summer in a beach town, a save-the-date is an
expected courtesy. Of course, you don't have to send one if you don't
want to, but it will give guests a heads up about your wedding plans.
Between travel arrangements and busy schedules, sending a save-the-date
will increase guests' chances of attending your celebration. And that's
the goal, right?
Q. When do you send them?
As a general rule, it's best to start spreading the news around six
months prior to the ceremony (eight months for a faraway destination or
holiday weekend). This gives wedding guests plenty of time to book their
travel, save a bit of cash and ask for days off from work. Any earlier
and they may toss the notice aside. Any later and it might as well be an
invitation.
Q. Do we have to send save-the-dates to everyone?
Just to the people that you want to come to your wedding. Even if you've
already received verbal confirmations from certain guests, you should
still send them a save-the-date (
bridesmaids, siblings and parents). But remember: Only send to those that you definitely want to attend. Once these are in the mail, there's really no turning back.
Q. Which information should we include?
At this point, you may not have all the specifics, and that's okay. The
save-the-date should include the couple's names, wedding date (or dates,
for a wedding weekend), location (a city is helpful, even if the venue
isn't booked yet) and a notice for a formal invitation to follow.
Including a
wedding website
is ideal, but again, not necessary. At this point an RSVP shouldn't be
expected—after all, this is the correspondence that gives guests an
opportunity to figure out what their RSVP will be when the formal
invitation arrives.
Q. Do our save-the-dates have to match our wedding invitations or theme?
Not at all. Save-the-dates are much less formal. This is your
opportunity to let your style as a couple really shine, or try out a
theme you love but are hesitant to commit to just yet. Play with colors,
motifs or fonts to create something that will get guests excited for
the occasion.
Sticky Situations
Q. Can we send electronic save-the-dates?
Email invitations for informal events like bachelorette parties and
postwedding brunches are becoming more popular, and as a result,
rewriting the rules of snail mail etiquette. We stand by old-school
stationery for the big stuff like formal invitations, but leave the use
of digital up to the discretion of the couple for any additional wedding
events. If you do decide on digital, consider doubling up: Send out an
electronic save-the-date to everyone,
and send paper correspondence to older relatives or friends that may want it as a keepsake.
Q. Do we need to add “and guest," or can that wait for the invitations?
It's best to be clear about who's invited to the wedding, even this far
in advance. By including the actual names of every intended guest on the
envelope, you're less likely to have any assumed invitees (like your
second cousin's new boyfriend), or general confusion (is your
seven-year-old niece invited?). Being up front about who's invited also
gives families with uninvited kids ample time to plan for child care,
and out-of-towners time to figure out hotel room shares.
Q. What if we send save-the-dates and then change the date or location?
This
scenario is very unlikely, since no couple should send out formal
wedding information before setting the plans in stone—but stranger
things have happened. In the event of an unexpected change of plans,
your best bet is to update your wedding website,
pick up the phone and start spreading the word. You do have the option
of sending out another mailing that explains the dilemma—but a personal,
verbal notice is the best way to avoid confusion. (If your wedding guest list is a bit overwhelming, enlist the help of your bridal party.) Q. What about our registry information?
While your guests will likely want to know where you're registered, it's
in bad taste to include this information on your save-the-dates or
wedding invitations. Gifts, of course, are not required. Guests will
know to ask bridal party attendants or your parents for the scoop. You
can also include a link to your wedding website (where your registry
information should live) on an invite insert.
Theoretically, wedding gifts
are not gender-specific. Wedding registries are supposed to be filled
with things the new couple needs to complete their household, hence the
traditional presents, like dishes, blenders (and other small kitchen
appliances), linens, and cutlery. Gifts for bridal showers, on the other hand, tend to be more feminine as they're for the bride, specifically.
But lately, traditional bridal showers are being replaced with co-ed wedding showers
that include both the bride and groom, as well as a co-ed contingent of
guests. Why the shift? Probably because grooms are far more involved in
the wedding planning than they have ever been in the past, and they
want to be a part of the pre-wedding festivities. And because married
couples like to give showers for their engaged-couple friends together.
Co-ed showers are usually in the evening, and typically have a lot
more cocktail-ing than at a bridal shower. And because the focus is on
the bride AND the groom, a little more creativity is required when
selecting gifts. Instead of going straight off the registry, or handing the couple a gift card, consider being more creative.
Bar and Entertainment Accessories
These are always a hit for a co-ed shower. It's an opportunity give
brides and grooms higher-end items than they probably wouldn't buy for
themselves. I absolutely love the cutting boards, fancy muddlers, and
serving trays from The Wooden Palate.
Their coasters made from the old Atlantic City Boardwalk are gorgeous.
You can personalize barware for the couple, with monograms on glasses
and cocktail napkins. Or get even more creative with monogrammed whiskey
rocks that display their wedding date from The Ultimate Man Shop.
Outdoor Activity Kits
These are the modern take on giving the traditional picnic basket as a
gift. Start with a compact, but high-end, cooler that has slots for wine
bottles, in addition to room for food and other beverages. Bed, Bath & Beyond
has a selection of options for every budget and style. Pockets for
utensils and paper products are a plus, and giving the gift stuffed full
of things to use makes it twice as nice. If it comes with picnic
accessories, fill the empty spaces with wine, crackers, and other
non-perishable gourmet items.
For a couple who likes the beach, a wheeled cart designed to hold
their beach chairs, cooler, umbrella, and beach bags is a huge hit.
Personalize it with some luxurious monogrammed beach towels from Advantage Bridal, sporting the soon-to-be-married couple's new initials.
Emergency Preparations
For the couple who has everything, HIS and HERS "go-bags"
or "bug out" bags are a new thing. Everybody is supposed to have a
"go-bag" packed and ready to take out the door in case you have to
evacuate. Following guidance from a reputable source such as The Survivalist Blog, fill up color-coded backpacks with some of the essentials. Create a checklist
of what-all should be in each bag, mark what you've provided, and put
the list in a card with a note of explanation so the couple can complete
it themselves.
Photo: Getty Images
You say the two of you are tight. Rock solid. Impossible to tear
apart. The two of you are a match made in heaven. An unbeatable team.
Whatever the metaphor is for long-term bliss, you believe your
relationship is it. The alpha and omega. Kismet.
And you may be right. There is one way, however, to measure up if your relationship is rock solid, or not. These 10 things will never happen if the two of you are really such an ironclad pair.
1. Cheating.
Don't tell us the two of you are a solid pair if there's constant cheating.
I'm not just talking about having physical contact with another person;
I'm talking about the emotional cheating: Facebook affairs and texting
with another person who is not your partner.
If your partner is "loving" and "liking" every hot photo of every hot chick and completing the sentiment with sexy comments, this is cheating. This is disrespecting you. An ironclad relationship has no part of this nonsense.
2. Second-guessing.
Are you always looking at your partner's phone? Second-guessing
everything your partner does or having insane suspicions constantly says
your relationship is not rocks, but rather, paper.
4. Having identical identities.
An ironclad, match-made-in-heaven relationship has signs of separation.
By separation I mean the two parties have their own unique identities.
They get to be who they want to be in the world around them, without the
other trying to control how the party is framed or how the party reacts
with other people.
5. Controlling behavior.
A solid relationship NEVER involves one party controlling or monitoring the other person in any fashion. Any sign of control or manipulation is a sure sign of a negative relationship, not a solid one.
6. Walking on eggshells.
A solid relationship has two people who are able to clearly state how
they feel about everything, from each other to politics. These two
people never have to be reminded to be respectful with their words,
because they just are. But either way, neither party censors the other. Both partners feel as if they can share their feelings with their partner without being shunned or hurt.
7. Asking for unreasonable accommodations.
A partner who is close with you and cares for you will never ask you to
impossibly alter yourself. For example, an ex of mine ragged on me for
being too sensitive. This wasn't something I could easily change. Could I
change other things? Sure, but a person who loves you for you isn't
going to ask you to alter something that is incredibly unreasonable.
9. Criticizing constantly.
Yes, a solid relationship is marked by honesty. However, two independent and loving humans don't feel the need to share every single
thing with each other, especially if these things may be hurtful. A
smart and loving partner will know when the keep his or her lips zipped.
It's a sign of love and total devotion.
10. Relying on power dynamics.
Every partner has his or her own role in a relationship, but a solid couple will not rely heavily on power dynamics
in which one party is completely and emotionally dependent on the
other. A solid relationship requires people who know how to shift gears,
take turns, and utilize each person's individual strengths to keep the
relationship going.
Check out the hottest classic wedding color combos that we’re obsessed with right now.
Black + White
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Jana Williams Photography; onelove photography; Jana Williams Photography; Jana Williams Photography
Good for: formal winter weddings Tips for pulling it off: What's more classic than a timeless wedding color palette
of black and white? It may seem intimidating to design, but you can
make it your own with the use of different fabrics, textures and décor
accents. If you really want to make a statement, wear a black and white
gown. For something more subtle, keep an all-white look until the
reception, then accessorize with a few pieces of black jewelry.
Peach + Sage
Photo by Clockwise
from top left: Audrey Rose Photography; Robert & Kathleen
Photographers; Jason+Gina Wedding Photographers; Audrey Rose Photography
Good for: whimsical spring weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Looking for a pretty palette that radiates springtime enchantment?
Peach and sage it is. These two colors live beautifully together, and
they thrive when they're styled in an alfresco reception space. Continue
to let spring blooms inspire the details all the way to your favor—a
potted plant!
Yellow + Gray
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Roohi Photography; L Photographie; Mandy Paige Photography; Mike Larson Photographer
Good for: casual outdoor weddings Tips for pulling it off:
For a bright and inviting party vibe, opt for a cheerful palette of
yellow anchored by a dark gray. Let yellow take the lead in all the
accent details—think: envelope liners, bouquet wraps, cocktail napkins
and even sprinkles! Then add in some gray (or sleek accents of silver)
when you need to create depth. With a palette so cheerful, it should be
matched with memorable entertainment, like an interactive dessert
station or photo booth with quirky props.
Red + Gold
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Mirelle Carmichael Photography; Our Labor Of Love; Mirelle Carmichael Photography
Good for: formal summer or fall weddings Tips for pulling it off:
We love the regal appeal that comes with gold in a color palette,
especially when it's paired with red for a bold and modern look. Since
red is such an eye-catching hue, you only need touches of it here and
there for it to stand out. For example, decorate the tabletop with gold
chargers, flatware and napkin rings, then accent with a single red
napkin or place card. For your blooms, pair red stems with shades of
pink to soften the floral arrangements and create a trendy monochromatic
effect.
Jewel Tones (Eggplant + Ruby + Fuchsia)
Photo by Clockwise
from top left: onelove photography; Allison Maginn; Jess Barfield
Photography; onelove photography; Ron Soliman Photojournalism
Good for: formal fall weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Can't decide on just two colors? No problem! Try a range of hues in the
same color family. The key is picking colors that are close in
saturation. You'll have nearly unlimited options when it comes to
florals, and not to mention how thrilled your bridesmaids will be to
pick out their own dress color. We love the sultry yet playful vibe
created by a range of deep jewel tones.
Coral + Light Blue
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Gabe Aceves Photography; B Hull Photography; Laura Simson Photography; Sweet Tea Photography
Good for: outdoor summer weddings Tips for pulling it off:
For a coastal affair, keep things tranquil. A light blue hue will
complement any waterside event, and a preppy pop of coral (think: inside
of a conch shell) will keep the vibes upbeat and fresh. Incorporate a
water element onto your tabletops with floating candles to really round
out the aesthetic.
Scarlet + Navy
Photo by Clockwise
from top left: Jacqueline Patton Photography; Brandon Kidd Photography;
Brandon Kidd Photography; Broxton Art Photography
Good for: vibrant summer weddings
Tips for pulling it off: Keep the look less "America the
Beautiful" and more "your wedding is beautiful!" by adjusting the shade
of your colors and playing with textured materials. Mismatched colored
glassware, embossed charger plates and contemporary flatware make for
one stylish reception.
Lavender + Sage
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Artistrie Co.; Joshua Aull Photography; Birds of a Feather; Heather Payne Photography
Good for: formal spring weddings Tips for pulling it off: Soft
and sweet, this organic palette is perfect for a sophisticated alfresco
reception. Coordinate the wedding party with lavender dresses for the
bridesmaids and matching pocket squares or bow ties for the guys. When
it comes to the reception, wake up your guests' senses by garnishing
each escort card or place setting with sprigs of lavender, or
incorporate it into a signature cocktail. For the finishing touch, add
layers of lace, tulle or other billowy fabrics to soften tablescapes and
add wisps of color.
Peony + Burgundy
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Brandon Kidd Photography; Brandon Kidd Photography; Meg Ruth Photo; Eli Turner Studios
Good for: casual late-summer weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Are you totally inspired by peonies? We don't blame you. Lean on your
favorite summer bloom to anchor your wedding color palette and décor.
Paired with a dark red and contrasted with plenty of greenery, these
flower focal points can go a long way. If you can't spring for a
reception full of peonies, incorporate a peony motif into your
stationery and signage to keep the theme consistent without splurging on
a lot of stems.
Jade + Cerulean
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Jodi Miller Photography; Jodi Miller Photography; Jodi Miller Photography; One Eleven Images
Good for: destination weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Planning a nautical bash? Get inspired by a monochromatic palette of
chic seaglass blues. Print and texture mixing is encouraged, along with a
signature sip and dessert bar that perpetuates the color scheme.
Hunter Green + Orange + Navy
Photo by Clockwise from top left: onelove photography; onelove photography; Ashley Seawell Photography
Good for: eclectic fall weddings Tips for pulling it off: For
something contemporary and totally trendy, go for a colorful palette of
green, orange and navy. We love coordinated groomsmen, but for the
fashion-forward groom, a dapper two-toned navy suit with black lapels is
a sure way to stand out from the crowd. If formal is what you're after,
elegant patterned china and colored stemware is a great way to steer
the vibe away from boho and toward country club chic.
Purple + Turquoise
Photo by Clockwise
from top left: Melissa Jill Photography; Annie Mcelwain; Melissa Jill
Photography; Melissa Jill Photography; Allison Maginn
Good for: modern vineyard weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Want a color pairing that's equal parts bold and beautiful? A vibrant
turquoise and pure purple combo is perfect for the couple who wants to
make a statement. Turquoise pairs beautifully with the natural greens in
your florals, so amp up the greenery for more of a garden vibe. If glam
is what you're going for, incorporate exotic flowers like orchids and
add some metallic accents into the mix.
Ballet Slipper Pink + Dove Gray
Photo by Clockwise from top left: Photo Love; Our Labor Of Love; Shara Jo Photography; Studio Finch Photography
Good for: romantic backyard weddings Tips for pulling it off:
These two soft colors act as a neutral base for romantic details. We're
talking scenic backdrops, overhead bistro lighting, fabric drapings and
lengthy garlands of greenery—and don't forget the flower crowns! The
perfect finishing touch? A dramatic exit with sparklers aplenty.
Cornflower Blue + Navy
Photo by Clockwise from left: Meg Ann Photography; Meg Ann Photography; Marni Rothschild Pictures
Good for: coastal nautical weddings Tips for pulling it off:
We love a good seafaring navy, and we love it even more when it's
accented with a peppy cornflower blue. Hop on the mismatched dress trend
and let your bridesmaids choose which shade looks best on them, while
still achieving a coordinated look. Natural blue florals are limited
(you could go with white flowers with a blue tint), so lean on white
blooms to blend in with the rest of the décor, while placing blue
details elsewhere, like tabletop, bar and favors.
Rose + Rose Gold
Photo by Clockwise from left: Abby Jiu Photography; onelove photography; onelove photography; onelove photography
Good for: preppy summer weddings Tips for pulling it off:
Rose gold is having a moment—not only in the jewelry world, but in the
décor world too. Metallic blush accents are popping up everywhere from
dinner plate designs to welcome signs. Our favorite rose gold moment?
The foil on mini champagne splits. It's perfectly coordinated with the
color scheme and makes for the cutest favor.
