Choosing Your Wedding Colors: A Guide for Designing Brides
And even if you're getting the cake from Ron Ben-Israel, he's not going to ask you whether your wedding theme draws elements from 14th century Venetian court dress ... he'll ask you about your colors.
A mere generation ago, planning the wedding was a lot easier. It expressed your social class, and your parents' tastes. Even if they had particular ideas, the market couldn't offer much in terms of individual design. But these days, your wedding expresses your personal style in a way it never has before. Translation? The pressure's on!
Sussing Out Your Style
Some brides can solve the color question without thinking too much about style. They might have a life-long love for purple. Or, their venue might have strong hues they need to coordinate with. Or, when they picture their wedding, they already see their bridesmaids awash in certain colors. Easiest of all: sometimes they already have a theme in mind.For others, it's not that simple. Still, you can quickly pin down the styles that get your heart beating almost as fast as your fiancé does. Does Martha Stewart's relaxed, preppy look command your undying devotion? Do you pray you can someday actually subscribe to H&M magazine? Did Vera Wang's modern, moody Bolshevik collection for fall 2007 incite heavy breathing? This gives you some major clues.
Destination: Home, Sweet Home
Still, even if you don't consider yourself a fashionista or a Martha devotee, all's not lost. Instead, let's turn our eyes back to home and hearth.Many brides aren't just looking forward to a wedding, they're also buzzing with anticipation over the dream house they plan to share with their beloved. And in the process of hunting down this love nest, most spent lots time mulling over their personal style. What did you picture in your mind's eye as the right setting for your new life together? A rangy colonial with a gabled roof? A warm, log-sided farmhouse with a wood stove in the kitchen? Or did you dream of finding a downtown loft bursting with recessed lighting and monochromatics, and flip through the new IKEA catalog to pick out your cabinets?
Or consider: do you dream of filling your home with antiques you can pass down to your children? Look to seasonal-inspired color schemes and ballrooms. Plan to drape your bedroom ceiling in yards of mosquito netting? A fairytale wedding drenched in candelabras, gold braid and gauzy swags might fit the bill. Collect exotic objects from all over the planet? Try an art museum for your setting, and a sophisticated or daring palette.
And if you're one of those eclectic types who pairs Amish rocking chairs with aboriginal artifacts, use this old designer trick: think of the last bit of art or furniture you bought to spruce up your house. That tells you what's on your mind lately.
Your Secret Romantic Style
So, you know your domestic style is Eclectic Contemporary. Congratulations: that means you're holding a black-and-white wedding with chartreuse accents and ostrich feathers in a huge SoHo loft, right?Hold it: not so fast. Why? Because many brides have a special romantic style that exists in a universe by itself. You might be thrilled picking out Art Deco style spaceships for your pendant lighting. And yet, when it comes your wedding, you might picture something a lot more traditional.
So even if you're the most fashion-forward girl on the block, take a moment to consider whether your wedding vision doesn't actually go back in time by few hundred years. You might secretly harbor a special place in your heart for New England autumns, Victorian elegance, English cottage style, or even timeless fairy tales. And if that's true, rest assured you've got plenty of company.
The Gown's the Guide
But how do you tell if this stylistic gotcha's operating in your case? Here's the secret: go get your dress.For many brides, The Dress is a journey that starts with many preconceptions, but ends in the unexpected. Finding the dress is usually a case of recognizing it once you've tried it on, not knowing ahead of time what you'll wear.
And once you've found it, the dress will offer some big clues about your Romantic style. Captured by a demure ivory gown covered in Alençon lace, with a button-back closure? Start your search with pastels and neutrals that suit a 1930's vintage or feminine garden wedding. Fell hard for a sleek, diamond white v-neck that's all about the lines? Investigate the crisper, more playful palettes we see today, such as black and white, aqua, bright pinks, lime green and corals.
Adjust for Geography, Venue and Season
Now that you've unearthed your personal style, it's time to look outward. If your style's traditional, for example, start with a hotel ballroom. If you want a strong seasonal feel for fall, try a rustic barn. Cultivated gardens go well with traditional, Martha-esque tints. Tents weddings are a blank slate: you can make them as classic or brazenly modern as your heart desires.Geography, too, plays a role in your colors. Tropical affairs in the blinding sun are often showcases for the brightest hues of all: coral and orchid, for example, or aqua and orange. Evening white-tie affairs in New York City? Not so much.
Many brides are in the middle, and want to weave in at least a seasonal hint. Fortunately for them, most seasons have palettes both traditional and modern. For example, a classic summer wedding might feature cornflower blue or sage, where a modern one draws on fuchsia and lime green, or orange, pink and black.
Even flowers help set the style. For example, a profusion of pinks in a bouquet of roses and peonies says English cottage. Mini-sunflowers and chrysanthemums says New England country. On the other hand, the color blocking in a hand-tied bouquet of purple callas is strongly modern.
Essential Color-Choosing Tools
Now you've got a style in mind, let's get to the art of actually picking colors. Here are a few can't-miss tools:Color Schemer. You'll need to create a free account, but this wonderful site has user-created palettes aplenty that you can search by keyword. Once you've registered, hit the "search schemes" button and enter words that fit your vision, like "fall,""garden," "sunset," "winter." Or free-associate with adjectives like "nautical," "peaceful," "modern," "preppy" or even "trendy." We promise, you'll be hooked.
Sherwin-Williams Color Generator. Hit their site, and choose "FIND COLOR." Click on any color that draws you, and you'll automatically pull up two accent colors that complement it. Cool.
Big Huge Labs Palette Generator. Have a photo on your hard drive that seems to capture your wedding's heart and soul? Upload it to a palette generator, which will kick out most of the main hues involved. Unless you're on the beach, use one of the more neutral, calming colors as a primary (e.g., use it for bridesmaids or table linens), and the more nervous, high-energy colors as accents (use these in table napkins, chair sashes, ribbons, and some of your flowers.)
Make a Mood Board. Once you've narrowed down some favorites, start grabbing photos (for your own personal use, of course). Make a special folder on your hard drive, and save photos that seem to fit the colors, setting and season you're going for. If you've got any photo editing software, start putting them together in one big image. This will tell you more than thousands of words how your look will play out.
Making the Most of Your Choices
Now that you've got your colors, how can you really make them shine? A problem that plagues some brides is an oversized fear of chaos. Although it's simple, most weddings aren't at their best when the groomsmen's vests and ties exactly match the bridesmaids' gowns, which in turn match the bride's sash.So, choose your colors wisely and stick with them, but strive for designing more than matching. Brown and ivory are neutrals when chosen thoughtfully, so use their many shades for a sophisticated, monochromatic look. If the bridesmaids wear mocha or persimmon, the men will look great in chocolate brown. And even if the flowers call for a palette of orange and yellow, let a little green or cream sneak in for dimension. Check for too much of a good thing: when the entire wedding party wears matching brown or black, the effect can be overpowering.
And They Lived Happily Ever After ...
Picking your colors is a journey, just like finding the dress, or knocking all those planning items off your checklist. But hitting on the right colors, theme and setting for the ultimate expression of your own Romantic style? That can be the pleasure of a lifetime.
Chime In!
Stuck on colors, and looking to chat? Upload some starter pics that shows us your venue, your dress or whatever you're working with. Tell us the season or theme, if you've got one ... then post away!You Might Also Like ...
- Month by Month: Wedding Themes and Colors for Every Season
- The Meanings of Colors in Weddings
- Dreaming of a Dazzling Green Theme Wedding
- A 5th Avenue or Beach-Style Aqua Blue Wedding
- From 40s Fantasy to Designer Deco: the New Black and White Wedding
- Pink Theme Weddings
- Is Orange & Fuchsia Too Loud for a Wedding?
- A Pale Pink & Champagne Springtime Wedding
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Ok…I have no pictures to post on here however, I am as lost as as lost can be! My wedding is June 19, 2010 it is at a country club golf course in a small town! I think I have time but don’t think I can make up my mind! So here are some of my ideas I’m just not sure about! Watermelon pink and silver But i think the watermelon color may be to loud of a color…I am not Picky I just stink at picking colors…All I want is something Elegant and small just like my wedding…Nothing over the top do you think the watermelon pink is to loud of a color…Please help I’m open to any Ideas!!
hidee,
actually you have a great color!! pair it with one neutral and leave the silver tothe metal accents unless you wnat to go in a more silvery gray and watermelon. this is a classy yet hip color scheme. green is a great color to this scheme!! i have a couple of pics to show you. you said something about using silver so i found a board putting the girls in a silvery grey. ( make sure you see which shade compliments the bm skintones and make adjustments)
*style me pretty ( this scheme makes for easy and failproof planning;can also put guys in a charcoal grey for more ideas google image pink and grey wedding)
another personal fave of mine is from martha stewart…
*fuschia and taupe( i am in awe everytime i see this simple elegant yet crisp up to date wedding) i love the taupe ( and totally rewearable!) suits for the guys or like i said use grey. also fuschia or watermelon and black or (especially brown) would be super!! just like this!! just swap out the taupe for silvery grey( not shiny) and have bridal party in black or watermelon ( guys in classic black and white). there is not a whole lot for watermelon pink so google image hot pink and silver wedding also hot pink and silver wedding board.
Hi Stacey
Its me again and I really need your help.
Im at lost as how to use my color [sage green, ivory and fucshia] in the decor.
I want fabric swagging under the white tents but dont know what color[s] to swag with. Also, whats a nice and budget friendly fabric to do the swagging? i don’t like the usual tulle.
I will be using ivory paper lanterns in the trees but dont know if i should also use it together with the swags under the tents. If so what color should I use.
What color should i use as tablecloths?
I’m having a garden theme and wants the decor style to reflect that. I also want to keep it simple yet elegant. I will be having 10 tents with lots of greenery around.
Eagerly waiting to hear from you.
Thanks
sarah,
gossamer might be pretty reasonable.i would check prices locally. although fluid like not stiff tulle would be the most inexpensive. have tables in sage green linens; ivory accents ( napkins etc) ivory favors tied with sage ribbons, then add fuschia flowers. i wouldnt add lanterns with the draping unless you see that it still needs an xtra something. if you keep the draping not to heavy you could add lanterns hanging right over the tables which would give it an amazing look.
Stacey,
What colors should i swag with?
I like your idea of the lantern right over the tables.
What color lantern would u suggest?
Is organza a good fabric for the swags?
sarah,
hi!! i would personally do either white or a mint or pale green and white. keep it soft. all white will keep you from having to buy two different colors. therefore saving $$$. you could use that xtra $$$ from the green to buy the white and make sure you have enough. have your lanterns in pale green and white keep it fresh and more nuetral, so your fuschia centerpieces can shine. google image wedding paper lanterns. i was thinking. if you wanted to save $$$ all together. you could axe the fabric draping. and just suspend a TON of paper lanterns(in green and white) in various sizes from ceiling. it would give such a dreamy effect just like the draping would. it would also mask the room. if you want to add more color to the paper lanterns, suspend them with ribbon put green with white lanterns and vice versa or tie them all with pale pink ribbon. then tie single fuschia or pink ( you can add pale pink inthese places cause it will compliment the fuschia) flowers on chairs ( in a safe non tripping position) with sheer ribbons. i have a couple pics(one to show you the suspension) that i am talking about to hang over tables. the other the chairs. it might open up some ideas for ya in a budget friendly way?!?
sarah, organza where i live can be pricey. use bargaining skills if you buy in bulk. also try this website….
*saveoncrafts
Thanks Stacey!
Hi Stacy,
I am getting married August 21, 2010. The most trouble I am having is picking out my colors. I’ve always wanted a Fall wedding and have Orange and Brown as my colors, but because of work and other family members a Fall wedding was not possible. Could Orange and Chocolate Brown still be okay for a Summer wedding. If not, I would really like to have some ideas on colors for a Summer wedding. I do like brighter colors.
If you could get back to me with some ideas that would be great.
Thanks.
tricia,
hi! absolutely!! i put together a board for you, i hope it sparks ideas!! the way to pull it off in summer is to add a summery version of the orange. now i put a fun twist on it to pull it into summer more but you can just go with brown, a pale orange(ex: peachy orange) pale green, and ivory or white. google image orange and brown wedding boards then orange and brown summer wedding also try chocolate and orange wedding. each of these pull up different results.
I am getting married in July of 2010 and would like a color that would go with raspberry. I’m not even sure if that would be a good color for the summer.
ramona, google image raspberry wedding board also google image and google search raspberry color wedding board you can also try colors that are similar like berry, strawberry and maybe fuschia.i love the lime with it!! when you see something that you love let me know and i will find more ideas. i wasnt sure if you wanted more fun or elegant. so i found both. i have to say these two are my faves!!
*Inspiration Boards, XV
*strawberry and lime wedding
PS- my venue is honestly pretty boring! we are gonna have a lot of work ahead of us to dress it up, the walls are pretty much all dark brown…which i hate! but the venue is what worked best for us for location. Im kinda leaning more twards lavander/green/pink becasue of the brown walls, help!!
Hi Stacey, im getting married in June 2010 and im having a really hard time deciding on colors. I want colors that are spring related but i dont want it to look like Easter! Any suggestions on color combos? im lost!
Hi Stacy,
I need help in finalizing my wedding colors! I am getting married July 17th 2010 in the city at an Urban Yacht Club. I am drawn to really bright colors and have been thinking about using an array of colors. I am stuck on a bright green, lemon yellow, bright Orange as pops of color and then light gray/white for the linens/dresses. I attached a picture from their website that shows the venue. Any ideas would be a big help. Thank you!
sarah,
you have a great neutral palette to work with, lucky you!! i think bright colors would be perfect int his setting. wow!! i love waht your gonna do, that is a really nice color scheme. before going further i need to know what the bridal party is gonna wear. what color? these colors can be really hard for complexions to pull off, even the bright green. i would put them in a charcoal grey or a pale version of one of the bright colors. another idea navy blue for both guys and girls. your colors would be outstanding agaisnt this. another question is what is the vision you see? a theme? this will help make it a bit easier to find or give ideas!! i cant wait to help!!
HI Stacey,
Thank you for the reply! The Bridal Party will be wearing the gray and I will most likely either have the sashes of the bright colors and/or the bouquets in the bright yellow, green and orange. Unfortunately I don’t have a theme in mind but I would love to do whole lemon (as opposed to sliced) centerpieces with really tall glass vases and flowers/branches coming out of the top (see attachment) . I am not quite sure how to add the other colors in…I don’t want it too crazy and hap hazard looking. Any ideas would be great…please feel free to ask any more questions…Thank You!!
sarah,
i would go with the grey dresses/no sash, with the bright bouquets agaisnt it. i found a bouquet that would work beautifully with this. i thought an xtra punch of color would brighten a tad. i would have the submerged lemons in tall vases or cylinders on grey linens, yellow or white napkins. the lemons will stand out against the grey,if you cant get grey have simple white with centerpieces. have simple white napkins. for your cake consider chocolate with yellow flowers. the lemons will be stand out so have guys in charcoal grey suits with simple white pocket hankies. have the flowergirl in white with a grey or pale apricot sash. this bouquet is supermarket flowers. head to realsimple.com
i think you have found your theme. citrus!
*Turn Supermarket Flowers Into Beautiful Bouquets
after studying the options. if you use the bouquet i suggested i would keep the citrus to either limes or lemons. its not overpowering that way. youstill get to bring in the orange and other color thru the bouquets though. i preferred the limes with it, just gorgeous!! the lemons look so fab too!!
Hello Stacy,
I am getting married on Dec 5, 2009. I would like the colors of my wedding to be black, ivory, and gold. The FI has agreed. I want the girls to wear black dresses and the guys in black tuxes. I am having a hard time picking out flowers for myself and the girls. My dress is a deep ivory.
I am also having hard time trying to pin down the decor for the reception. I have several ideas but nothing seems to pop. I know want Black table clothes, black napkins, and gold chargers. That’s it. Do you think that’s to much black?
Any Suggestions is helpful..
I have attached a few photos:
crystal,
after looking at this color combo. you can go a couple of ways. add red or all white flowers. i dont think it is to much black but i would add centerpieces of white or ivory flowers not tightly arranged but loose structure. you could also replace black napkins into a damask or other print. it can be subtle. this would be gorgeous. carry the damask into your bouquet ribbons. can you tell me what other ideas you have and what your fave colors are. i might be able to derive something from that. i do have some pics though. are you wanting to lighten it up? i will be happy to help all i can!!
Hello Stacy,
I would love to add red however, the FI does not like red at all. I thought about white flowers but I want a little more color. I am looking more at Fall colors like: rust, orange, yellow, etc.
Also, I want to use table candlelabras with hanging crystals (if possible) and votive candles to accent the table. I would like add some color with the flowers???
I want to use more ivory vs. white. Or use both?
I’m at a lost.
Crystal
OMG! I just don’t understand your knack for putting colors together, I must admit I’m getting a bit jealous. I am getting married May 2010 on a beach in jamaica. I love purple orchids, but that’s as far as I’ve gotten. I’ve thought about raspberry and lime colors, but it just doesn’t seem to say beach romance to me. I would also hate to put my girls in an unflattering color. If you could help me that would be great! Thanks so much!
Katelyn
hi katelyn, wow jamaica! how wonderful!!
well your actually in luck cause purple can be stunning on the beach and so fitting!! there is one color ( a richer periwinkle or lavender ) will compliment a variety of skintones.
*Toronto summer wedding( this could be sooo easy to do for a beach wedding!! just pick one type orchid)
*Nicole and Marshall in Kamuela, HI ( my gosh! this is so simple yet so beautiful!! i love this it really screams beach and romance to me; it just looks like love)
may i suggest guys in khaki suits or tan pants and white shirts (the untucked hemline) flipflops, have girls in lavender or periwinkle. have the bm carry white orchid bouquets . your bouquet can be the purple orchids (or vice versa in bouquet colors you with white/them with purple-a deeper shade looks amazing against a lighter shade of purple!!) have a simple white and tan backdrop (linens and napkins ) and vases of lush purple white and local greenery ( if preferred) in center.( this will allow the purple to take center stage agaisnt a neutral backdrop hint: use billowy sheer fabric on a bamboo arch or tied to an aisle of tiki torches; it is just dreamy) if budget doesnt allow then have a mix of local flowers mixed in with greenery. i wanted to give you the xtra cake pic, didnt know if you’d like it but this is another combo. i also think a clean out 1/2 of coconut shell would make a neat ringbearer alternative to pillow. or drill holes and thread with ribbon for a flowergirl basket.
for visuals check out the knot.com under wedding photos (will carry you to color details) also check out real weddings and ( real beach weddings)
*faith and lee
*hawaii weddings: decor ideas
*dramatic purple
i hope you find something youlove; let me know so we can narrow it down.
hi there,
i’m getting married in october (south africa) i.e. early spring and i quite like the colours teal and silver. however, i thought to warm it up a bit, red roses might go well with those colours… any opinions on that? or can you make any other suggestions?
thanks
keena,
hi! red looks great but have you checked out orange? google image teal and red wedding also teal and orange wedding. i also imaged teal wedding board
*teal weddings
*teal and red
wow, thanks so much stacey - very helpful and i need all the help i can get frankly
That would be an interesting color to add but it could work. You might want to add little touches of red elsewhere to include the color more so it doesn’t look like you just went to a florist and grabbed roses without any thought to how it works in the wedding- small accents so as not to be overwhelming such as small ribbon touches on favor bags or something. I agree with stacey with a warm and rich orange added instead of a red… you would be surprised how well that would go too.
great, thanks for the advice, brandi :)
Hi Keena,
I saw a beautiful over the top wedding on the tv show Platinum Weddings on WE TV a few weeks ago. The colors were teal red and silver with a peacock accent.
Check out these links to their wedding…
http://www.wetv.com/photo-galleries/platinum-weddings-danielle-todd/the-wedding-ceremony-reception.html?num=2
http://www.wetv.com/photo-galleries/platinum-weddings-danielle-todd/the-reception.html?num=5
http://www.wetv.com/photo-galleries/platinum-weddings-danielle-todd/the-decoration.html?num=7
Best of Luck,
Alexa
Ha! Excellent - so I’m not a complete mental case after all… :) Thanks so much, Alexa!
hello everyone! my name is Laura and I need help!! I am getting married soon and I havent even chosen my colors. I’m getting married in feb and i wanted something gold and lavender. I saw these colors that I’m really interested in I just dont know which ones they are! haha help me!!! what colors are these? (the first ones on the left)
laura,
eggplant or raisin, mango and golden yellow. where did you find the bridesmaid with bouquet? i will research it even more if you like. if you want to see more on eggplant just google image eggplant wedding board then purple and gold wedding also try plum wedding board then eggplant and gold wedding. the bouquet appears to be mango callas, orange dedrobium orchids, and a i think a magenta roses among yellow bi color roses; all nestled in oval eucalyptus leaves. yeah i just looked at raisin bridesmiad dresses it is a deeper shade. sometimes you can find lighter eggplant and darker raisin the colors vary in fabric yet it is still called the same color. your best bet is to stick with the eggplant cause it is easier to find. be careful how light you go on these colors as they can wash out skintones. it is a gorgeous and feb. worthy color scheme!!
Hi my name is Meagan. My wedding is March 2010. My finace really likes the color green (clover) and I just dont knwo what kind of flowers you you get with that because I really wanted lilies. I kind of wanted the color blue like the “pool” blue. I think that like pink cascading lilies for my boquet and bm have some what cascading ones. But will pink lilies go with the clover green.? He likes the yellow lilies. What would look better? The flowers that I like are the ones with pink in them and the yellows ones he likes. so if anyone can help me out please please please do. I want my wedding not to look childish or thrown together. I want it to be thught out.
meagan,
are you having a bridal party? if so, waht color do you want them in. second what does your venue look like? this will play a huge role in determining what you should pick. your love for lilies should be pulled and they are so gorgeous either they need to stand as the only type flower or pair them with roses. the biggest factor in choosing a color will be: what color looks best on the bm skintones? i would let them try on clover, pool blue. sometimes it will surprise you!! you might even find the girls look great in yellow.
for spring you dont have to choose just one color. it is a blend of different fresh colors! you can have more than 1 color to make it grown up spring wedding. first…i would pick a simple elegant 2 color scheme like the green and white ( white linens/white napkins with silver napkin holders; add clover green in by using green boxes or green program cards) and add fresh springtime bouquets for the centerpieces in crystal looking vases for more chic get green glass vases just make sure they match the program or favor green. for your bouquet have the pink and white lilies ( for your added blue and the something blue) wrap this bouquet with a rhinestone ribbon with blue jewels on it or add a white satin ribbon with a chic blue brooch. not to much just enough ( keep the blue in a not to showy color so it wont overpower/clash) then carry the blue onto a spring theme cake( think elegant pale blue cake with white lilies tucked in between tiers) i also love closed liles included in a bouquet in that fresh green color( which will further tie in your green) have bm bouquets in either colors or solid white and same color ribbon as dress.
meagan,after looking at pics, i had to rethink the colors. i am having trouble for some reason with clover. it doesnt add wow factor. though a beautiful color, it lacks a certain something. i have a pic i want to post and when you look at it try to imagine it with single colors as well as multi. i have looked at several pics and it doesnt enhance the skintones. i have several pics to post but i will start with the bouquets you posted with clover green etc. i posted a pink and yellow combo floral, you can take your finger and cover up each one at a time to check it out. then look at the bouquets you posted.maybe its just me, i wanted to get your thoughts though.
meagan, now here are my thoughts……
i combined all the colors in a strategic way that incorporates your blue and his green. which if you use greenery in the centerpieces etc. it will still pull in the green he likes. i did choose a subtle shade of blue dress dress from jimhjelm.com with a “shade” of green around the waist. this way it blends what you both like. it also lets the grace and beauty of the lilies stand out. i picked an all white linen for the yellow, pink, and green(greenery and closed lilies) to stand against. for th ecake you will notice a blue band accents it with your lilies. you can choose plain lilies instead of with the brown spots. which i thought the plain made it looks more chic. i thought it looked grownup and elegant!
- bridesmaid dresses - chocolate brown with sage/lime green sash
- reception colors - sage linen with chocolate brown napkins, flower centerpieces (vase filled with pumpkins and flowers to have greens, whites and a touch of mango, reds). I am unable to picture the reception. Can someone help me!!! I am not sure whether this matches, color coordinated or simply does not look nice?
Thank you for all your help and ideas in advance.
Hey Liz,
Ever since Stacy recommended googling color boards I have been addicted and have seen so many amazing color combinations aside from the one that I am going with.
I wanted to share these two boards that I came across. I’m curious, what color are the guys going to wear? I think that Chocolate and sage green would be beautiful and the orange would really make it pop. I have even seen some beautiful photos of pumpkins that were used as a vase for the florals as well as miniature dried pumpkins in a tall clear vase with candles.
If you scroll down on this first thread you will see some examples of brown green and orange in an actual room setting.
http://www.brides.com/forums/all-the-style-details/thread.jspa?threadID=51262&start=240&tstart=0
http://community.theknot.com/cs/ks/blogs/wedding_style_file/archive/2008/09/09/reception-ideas-an-orange-garden-wedding.aspx
http://junebugweddings.com/blogs/what_junebug_loves/archive/2008/01/18/Real-Weddings_2D00_-Constance-and-Paul.aspx
The other idea that I had was to have your girls in chocolate with burnt orange sashes and then incorporate your green throughout with your florals and the greenery that comes with that.
I realize that I am rambling. I hope that Stacy can give you more help.
Kindest Regards,
Alexa
I also found this one
http://www.haveweddingpride.com/2008/11/inspiration-monday-green-and-orange.html
Thank you Alexa!!! All the help is appreciated! I am enjoying the wedding planning, but now that its coming to the colors and the decor….urgh!
I’m lost!!! I will check out these websites. Thanks a lot! 
liz,
you have to see this it is breathtaking!!! with all the colors chocolate dresses with sage sashes would be beautiful!!! unfortunately i didnt find a table with the look you are after but i did find inspiration nonetheless!!
i have to admit i am a little concerned about the sage linens, i found some green linen pics and it just took away from the vibrancy of the autumn flowers. i think brown makes it pop! you can still have the girls in the chocolate dresses with green sashes, it will look amazing! promise! smile.
if it were me, i would choose champagne linens with brown napkins and brown chair covers (if chairs arent brown) dont worry about pulling champagne into the other decor. it will be perfect. a light mocha would do the trick too. IS there a way i can see a pic of your venue? i would be able to put the colors together better. thanks!!
*Fall is here!
*Knottie Bio: Middy (look closely it has the submerged pumpkins, this is “pretty” close just axe the purple; maybe it will give you “an idea” anyway)
*Caroline & Daniel in Menlo Park, CA
since you are undecided, might i recommend this link so you can get a visual of what you love!! just stunning pics and ideas!
*fall weddings
Thank you Stacey for your help, I really need it!!! I found a few pictures of our venues, but not where its empty. I hope they work. The venue has tress inside with clear christmas lights on trees as well as all around the hall on walls. It has windows all around it.
What else?
liz, i really love your venue. white lights are dreamy and romantic. i have a pic i would like you to look at. it is a fall wedding in a similar atmosphere. i want you to see the centerpieces they are so beautiful especially with the lights etc. it has a rustic elegance quality which is perfect for this room. i cant say enough how “creamy white” flowers; think orchids and roses, look against a rustic setting. if you had more white with the florals with a few mango callas, reds and added fall leaves or greens it would really be amazing. what have you narrowed it too?
*autumn wedding
*Wedding Wednesday: Brown and Green
liz, more pics. you gotta see this cake it is so pretty AND unique! i also included a white bouquet pic and a table setting. the linens are a luxurious sage and it looks fantastic!
liz, oh yes that will be stunning!! it is curly willow. yes!!! to the centerpieces. great ideas!!
Hi Stacy,
I think that your ideas are so insightful! I am hoping that you can help me with my color dilemma. I am getting married on Sept 4th, 2009. It is an evening wedding ceremony will be outside in front of a gazebo and the reception will be held inside. I was sold on the concept of green, chocolate and ivory. I was thinking chocolate for the groom and men as well as the BM’s. I also wanted to do chocolate tablecloths. I realize that would be chocolate overload! I am also really attracted to the deeper rich colors such as wine, plum and grape and rust. I really want the place to look rich(I don’t mean monetarily) and romantic. I also like subtle touches of damask. How can I incorporate a “fall” color with my chocolate brown while keeping everything together. I will attach a pic of my venue and my vases. I appreciate any assistance that you could provide. Oh and I should mention that I do not like yellow or orange with brown (aside from interiors that is).
Kindest Regards,
Alexa
alexa,
thank you!! after looking at several pics and envisioning in my mind i am just completely concerned it will be “to” many colors. i love all these colors but with the green something just didnt fit well. i think the shades of green that normally goes with the brown wedding is throwing everything off balance. can you post me a pic of the venue so i can take a better look at what will work. i am thinking just keep the xtra fall colors in leaves and add those elegantly into ivory floral centerpieces (ivory roses set in rust wrought iron urns; these are fairly lightweight) you can carry the only bouquet of plums, burgundy and grape to pull the color off the leaves. girls can carry fallish bouquets of white and green bouquets adding vine into the bouquet. it will come off elegantly and not “rustic”. i am thinking all roses. cause nothing looks more elegant in a rustic setting than simple roses. it just plays well off each other. ivory damask napkins would fit in nicely, not stopping there. have a damask patterned wedding cake.(google image and look at pics). add candlelight in clear glass votive holders, it will bring the urns to an even more wow factor. this is just off the top of my head. this should be ultra romantic. cant wait to see the pics!!
alexa,
check out what i found;especially the bridesmaids bouquets. think that would work? see the hints of plum in the florals. this is just breathtaking!! i havent seen these bouquet colors before. would work with creamy chocolate dresses or you could consider a lighter mocha like they are wearing. now this looks fallish and great with the green!!
*Karen Tran Florals
Stacy,
Thank you so much for your reply. I am attaching a few pics of my venue. I have been searching for different color boards and have been recently inspired by these.
http://www.elizabethannedesigns.com/blog/2008/07/24/real-wedding-allison-drake/
http://with–this–ring.blogspot.com/2008/02/another-damask-wedding.html
The thing is when I originally envisioned my colors we had a different venue in mind. It was on a rolling green golf course and I wanted everything to look really earthy and chick. But then the fiance nixed that place due to our budget and now those colors do not seem to mesh.
If I were to remove the green do you think I can pull off some sort of deep pink/magenta/plum like color with chocolate brown.
If your answer is yes, going off of the colors that you see in the above links what color would you pick for BM dress’? Would it be too much to have both the girls and guys in brown with colorful florals? Neither of the sites that I have referenced show bm’s. Also, if I went with these deeper colors could I lighten up the room with a few tall arangements of white or ivory flowers?
Please help me I am a color mess!!!!
Kindest Regards,
Alexa
alexa,
looking forward to your thoughts. 
wow! that is beautiful. i think chocolate linens would look superb in this room and the colors youhave chosen are top notch!! i love it!!!! i am assuming you are wearing ivory? i think the 2 boards you have posted are perfect. i have to say the first would be a stunner in this venue! there are a couple of colors the girls could wear. champagne with a brown sash. or you could go ahead and put them in the brown dresses and just add a colored sash of your choice like magenta etc. you can really play with the colors here for their sash. having the moh with a different color than the rest. another idea is a lighter shade in the rose family(a shade from your color scheme just lighter, it will give some contrast) something that will compliment skintones and add to the color. scheme that you have chosen. take the girls to the boutique and try on different colors (brown and the lighter shades of each the plum, magenta, etc.
i think the white flowers would look great in this room. have you thought about using th esimple white linens shown and covering with damask overlays in chocolate and white/ivory? accent with your floral colors. this way you can pull in the 2 boards youhave chosen without giving up anything.or at least have brown overlays on the white/ivory. have damask accents on the table. and your florals. that way you can stick with just one color in different shades(magenta/plum/grape etc.are monochromatic=1 shade in colors light to dark). just bouncing some ideas; whattcha think?!?
Stacy,
THANK YOU!!!! With your help I was able to think outside of the color block that I had created in my mind. I have decided against choclate brown suits and am going with my girls to try on shades of plum/deep purple/magenta to see what looks best.
The guys will wear black with a colorful tie. I can’t believe how much I have deviated from my original plan but I am so happy with these new choices! I could not have done it without your help. I am so glad that I stumbled upon this site!
I will keep you posted as the planning continues.
Kindest Regards,
Alexa
alexa, that is so wonderful! i am so happy you found something you love the black suits with whatever shade the girls wear will be a knockout. i look forward to your replies and i hope your wedding will be everything and more!
I am getting married July 31, 2009 and I am having trouble picking out colors. I really like orange and aqua but I am not sure if they work well together. Any Ideas?
Tks
karlee,
aqua and orange are amazing together! i had to put in similar shades to pull up some combos. may i suggest peach with aqua if you are looking for a softer palette and peach or coral for a beachside celebration.
*Aqua, Coral, Peach
*Teal & Peach Wedding
*Dina & Ray’s Wedding in Los Cabos, Mexico
*Being a “Turquoise Bride”
I am getting married September 12th of this year in Texas. So it still feels like summer. I haven’t selected a color scheme yet because they are so many beatuiful choices. My fiance decided yesterday that he and his guys will be wearing gray tuxes. Not a charcoal gray, more like a slate or sidewalk gray. What color do you think my girls should wear. I love vibrant, bold colors. I do not want them wearing any pastels, shades of gray, or black. Any help you could provide would be much appreciated. Thank you.
frances,
google image grey wedding board also gray wedding board(it will pull up different results) there are so many color schemes there that may appeal. to me, one other color with grey looks best. why not choose red it looks soooo good!! and would make it a breeze to plan. google image grey and red wedding. another great scheme is grey and pink. (google image this too) then grey and purple wedidng board.
*Pink Week: Hot Pink, Gray, Black Inspiration Board
*Gray weddings
*slate grey
i just know you will find something you love!!
hello stacey,
I’m Rita.I have a wedding in June and I keep falling for peach,purples,maroon,osbblood red.I ‘m still struggling..The cake and everyone is waiting for me,Please help…
rita, what are your venue colors and type of wedding your having. you have a beautiful color scheme that works even in june!! i just would like to look at the venue so i can pick your base palette cause i would keep all the colors in the bouquet with a various color accents here and there. look forward to your reply!! oh yeah what color is the bridal party attire?
rita, hi!! its me again!
i think i have found something for ya! i do know i wouldnt put the bm in peach unless they can pull it off. pick a super simple main color with white. these are the ones i think look gorgeous and give you what ya want. try these colors on the girls first.
rita, or you could just put them in red which would be knockout! whatever you choose keep the bouquets and florals with greenery and the berries add a nice summery touch. that is the thing about certain bouquets in fallish colors; they are summerish alot too. keep the dresses and the whole mood elegant and lighthearted.
Hi! I recently got engaged
and we are thinking of having the wedding in May or June of 2010. We are planning the ceremony and reception on the central coast, getting married outside next to the ocean. Both my fiancee and I love the color green. We cant decide what shade of green or what the other color should be? What do you think??
heather,
the color scheme i would choose is hands down…. blue and green!! it will be the easiest and tranquil!! paired with white and khaki it will be just gorgeous!
google image blue and green wedding and also blue and green wedding board.
keep the green in a soft green like mint. aqua and green wedding board is great too.
go to theknot.com under wedding photos and look at pics at the color galleries. you will love it!
oh yeah white and mint green would be perfect!! you wouldnt have to have another color if you dont want. cause these 2 compliments without overwhelming the beauty of the beach. have guys and girls in khaki and with mint green accents and crisp white flowers. you have a pure winner with this combo!!
also google image beach wedding board and beach wedding. have fun!!
My wedding is for Feb 27, 2010. I don’t want to wear red, or cranberry. I am thinking of orchid….can you plz suggests a color scheme best for that time. My bd skin tones are brown skin-Help!!!
latisha,
can you tell me a bit more about your wedding? i didnt quite understand your comment are you the bride? if so, you are wanting a colored wedding dress? or are you wearing white?orchid is a very beautiful color for brown skintones. might i suggest a purple color scheme. keep it in a range of shades of purple.
another color you can add to this that will make it a knock out is grey or silvery grey. this color scheme can be many things ranging from casual to full blown formal. it really depends on the overall tone you are trying to set.
could you tell me your vision? what i would do is make orchid my theme. if it fits your budget. have an orchid motif on your invites to your cake and centerpieces. if your budget is tight and you can still splurge on a more expensive flower if paring down elsewhere. btw, what is your fave flower and colors so i can research more.where is your venue and what does it look like? look at this 2die for wedding….
*inspiration board: lilac-gray wedding( you could easily do champagne in this instead of the grey)
you could always do separates like a silvery grey skirt with a white or champagne top carrying a mixed shades of purples bouquet. or you could have them in a pinkish champagne like blush. it is pale but it would work well with this color scheme. you wouldnt have to add blush to anything just keep it in their dresses. keep it simple.
i do love the monochromatic tone(the shades of purples i suggested) plus orchids are a dreamy flower and it will bring a romantic yet uplifting and relaxing mood to your wedding think: orchids=vacation thoughts.
your guests may feel like they are at a vacation spot somewhere sharing in your day!! perfect for recession times, when travel is light. that is why i love travel theme weddings!! its a vacation experience without leaving home!! cant wait to hear your details!! 
i am the bride and my gown will be white… i like the sound of a vacation theme …i also enjoyed the clipping…. i have to give the lilac and gray more thought -once i do…i will provide you with an udpate
Hi Stacey,
My wedding is going to be in August 2010 and I would like it to be love bird themed. Our reception location is a beautifully elegant ballroom with heavy burgundy colored curtains and ornate details. I am struggling to decide upon colors! Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks:-)
lauren, do you have a pic of the ballroom? i would like to see the exact shade. also what colors are the rug, chairs, what color linens are available? is the wall white in the ballroom? since it is ornate i am wanting to see if it can handle more than 2 colors. i know lots of greenery is dreamy against burgundy so i would count that in. also what type of feel do you want to set besides the elegance. with lovebirds i didnt know if it was the elegant side or a tad whimsical. i would pick a romantic color scheme and depending on the birds would you want an ethereal earthy but elegant garden feel? or a modern twist? and the big question!!
what colors do you like/dislike. this will help me know what to search for!! 
looking forward to hearing from you!
lauren, or a website i can go to for a pic?
Stacey! Thanks so much for getting back to me! Even though the ballroom is very elegant I am steering more toward a modern twist. I am really up for any color except red which I think is out anyway due to the dark curtains and the dark wood floor and I am in love with yellow but maybe just as an accent since I know not many people are thrilled with wearing the color. Concerning table linens, the pics I have are of course with dark red on the tables but I read through the information I have from them and all it says is that they have a wide range of colors, I have yet to see the selection in person. I also know that they have the same style of chairs in a few different colors as well. I think I answered everything! Pics are attached:-) Thank you so much! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
lauren, i dont know why but i am leaning so hard to copper and white with lots of greenery and accents of yellow flowers(creamy pale yellow). i think keeping your centerpieces in basically one solid color wouldnt compete with the room. i love the idea of guys in traditional black suits or tux with girls in copper. i would, however, think about white flowers with the creamy yellow centers, like roses. see the fresh greenery, add plenty of this. google image copper wedding board (to see if you like this) and copper wedding. this color is unbelievably stunning!! i think it would compliment the room.
*Wedding Reception At Boston’s Parker House: Abby and Tait
*Champagne and Dessert Fete
*Inspiration Board Contest, Part II
*Little Black Dress Competition, Day 2
* Wedding Theme - Grecian
*A modern twist to a classic look
lauren,
here is what i am envisoning with submerged centerpiece(which you can google image) or branches with hanging crystals.
lauren,
here is the rest. keep containers with sleek lines to give a more modern tone. and the submerged single stem rose or orchid will give an edge to the room. square containers will be modern and chic. add lots of candlelight. keep silverware sleek. plates in simple white on champagne or golden linens. in certain areas of the room have large urns filled with branches, hanging crystals, florets or “protected” but hanging votives if allowed. a square wedding cake will give another modern edge. it will be the certain details which will give it an modern twist. another idea which i rave about is colored water(with food dye and set branches in cylinder vases then group in odd numbers in varying heights on table) coloring the water a rosy or pale mint green shade would look amazing in this ballroom!! crystals in bottom of vase would be an added touch. those new floral lites are quite popular when submerged it will change the color of the water with a waterproof lite. i would mix old and new for a great appeal. oh by the way, if you use branches for centerpieces, you can add a pair of lovebirds on an abiding branch for each table. super romantic!! i really like this centerpiece for you!! i think it would really give you a way to bring in the lovebirds!! and depending where youlive, branches can be free and totally diy.
Stacey! oh my goodness, thank you so much for all of your help! This is beautiful and has given me so many wonderful ideas! It is also exactly what I was looking for: romantic with a modern flair and has my little love birds! Thank you again, I cannot even tell you how much appreciate your help!
lauren, your welcome!! i am so happy you like it!! i wish you happy planning and a wedded bliss.