Choosing Your Wedding Colors: A Guide for Designing Brides
- Sussing Out Your Style
- Destination: Home, Sweet Home
- Your Secret Romantic Style
- The Gown's the Guide
- Adjust for Geography, Venue and Season
- Essential Color-Choosing Tools
- Color Schemer
- Sherwin-Williams Color Generator
- Big Huge Labs Palette Generator
- Make a Mood Board
- Making the Most of Your Choices
- And They Lived Happily Ever After ...
- Chime In!
- Comments (3096)
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 collections 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 ...
When all's said and done, you're sure to have a great feeling about your colors, and how they fit your personal style. Even if the scheme you hit on isn't "I've loved that all my life!", it might be "I never would have thought of that, but I love these together!"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.







found this site helpful.. i am to wed next year in march the color motif is matt gold and my plan for my dress would be in the shade of ivory with matt gold accent.. now im not sure what the color for the bridesmaids dresses that would compliment my dress.. should it be in the darker or lighter shade of ivory? your suggestion would be helpful
Anne,
If you are going with a gold and ivory wedding…I would have them in a classic color like black with the guys in black would look super sharp. If you want to stick more with the gold and white colors, then I would have them in a shade of gold.
Some pics…
Perfect example…
Part 2…
Let me know what you think! It is amazing!! Very classy. Another color that would be seriously beautiful would be brown.
Previous boards I have done, that may help with ideas…
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=28372916
http://www.polyvore.com/chocolate_cream_dream_wedding/set?id=28048420
http://www.polyvore.com/brown_green_gold_wedding/set?id=26715205
http://www.polyvore.com/wine_gold_fall_wedding/set?id=22423069
http://www.polyvore.com/vintage_cinderella/set?id=19506640
http://www.polyvore.com/vintage_gold_wedding/set?id=18723721
http://www.polyvore.com/victorian_theater_wedding/set?id=18652290
http://www.polyvore.com/blue_champagne_wedding/set?id=18226564
http://www.polyvore.com/hollywood_vintage_glam/set?id=15116344
http://www.polyvore.com/ooh_la_la…diamonds/set?id=13234126
http://www.polyvore.com/summer_dreams/set?id=12461013
Hi Stacy,
I’m getting married in the middle of October – the ceremony and reception will be in Victorian decorated venues.
I have a full length ivory lace strapless gown, and I’d like to carry a bouquet of deep red (and possibly the deeper orange) calla lillies.
That’s all I’ve got so far in terms of colors.
I was hoping my girls could wear a deep red dress similar to the lillies, but that’s proving difficult to find.
If we do find the wine/cranberry dresses, what do you think accent colors would be? I had been thinking burnt orange and brown – but is that too autumnal/dark? My FI wants black tuxes, not brown. However, I think I could talk him into charcoal. This doesn’t look great with orange though, does it?
I’m looking for a color palette for the invitations, cake and men’s clothes.
Thanks for any advise!
Chels,
Could I get a look at your venue link or pic? I would like to see what it looks like to determine what will work best. I do love the idea of red. If the groom wants black tuxes, I know we can find something perfect for all!!
Chels,
You could always have the girls and guys in black and then pair red vests and ties on the guys. Hold on and I will send a second example of pics….
Chels,
Check out Priscilla of Boston website and Alfred Angelo. Another option is House of Brides has loads of styles. So does Best Bridal Prices website. Thye also have lists of designers and you can use to know main designer sites. Look forward to hearing from you!!
Stacey,
Here is my dress, the ceremony location (inside courthouse) and the reception (bed & breakfast). Also a bouquet I like (probably with only a couple of the orange callas).
I would still like the feel of everything to be autumnal – that is why i was shying away from the black & red (which seems like it could be more wintry/any season).
Thanks for your advice!
Chels,
Very nice dres and pics. Gotcha, have always loved that bouquet. I am trying to tell if the roses in the wallpaper are a peachy orange shade or a rose shade. The reason I am saying is because I dont want your color scheme to clash with the setting. The courthosue is okay because it is neutral but the reception area needs to be simplified with a 2 color scheme I am thinking. I have one idea if the wallpaper has rose in it, it will lighten it up and still give a autumnal feel, just add some fall leaves to the mix ( not the reds but the leaves more browns,mauves, etc.)
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=23171296
This is more of a elegant lighter version of fall. You coudl have your bouquet like above, just have the girls in like a shade of green, maybe sage or olive…..
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=22701035
This would work, just have a few burnt orange callas in the mix…
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=22423069
This would be the coloring I mentioned using….
http://www.polyvore.com/edwardian_fall_barn_wedding/set?id=18726838 ( I did a side by side pic to your reception area and the coloring was spot on, it still gives you the orange without being to dark and will suit the victorian style of the room, now this is a theme board I created previously but I just wanted to show the colors- the urn pic especially)
and this…
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=15567217 ( plum/mauve and orange could work)
One I found that could work….
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=15363287 ( because its not to many shades-color is more streamlined)
And this…
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=14365100
Chels,
Sage green would be amazing.
Here is another with the girls in brown, this could also work, not as brightly colored. The reception pic is beautiful but the coloring or maybe the decor distracts from the room. When using an ornate setting less is more. I think the reception may need softer colors. You can easily keep the orange or fall colors just narrow them down to a simple color scheme or lighten them up a bit. I personally think the edwardian board colors or the pink and orange falll board worked very well, just in a comparison with the posted pic. Adding pale orange pumpkins etc, would add to the feel. Fall can be brought in thru nonfloral items such leaves or the pumpkins and still have the effect your after.
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=9827327
Hope to hear from you soon and I hope the boards provided some ideas.
Hi Stacy,
I really love this blog and its great to be able to consult with folks who are having a hard time choosing their colors. I’ve attached a photo of our venue. The carpet is what’s really holding up my decision making process as is the accent wall which is yellow. The color combos I like are black, white, and deep red. Or black, white, and blush (very light pink/peach). Do you think either of these combos will work with the space or what would you suggest? I appreciate your insight!
Liz,
What color is the carpeting exactly?It looks Orange in one pic and red in the other. I love the yellow centerpieces in the first pic! Wow! I think the black white red would be the best choice. The black and white really makes this venue come to life. When I hear from you I will e able to tell better.
Hi Stacy!
Thanks so much for your response. the carpet in the interior is a light red mixed with some pops of yellow and midnight blue. I was thinking the same about the black and white bringing the venue to life, but hoping it won’t clash too much with the carpets and walls. What color centerpieces and linens and flowers would you suggest? I look forward to hearing from you!
Hi Stacy!
The carpet colors are light red, yellow and blue. I really like the colors Black and White but not sure if they will clash with the carpet or not bring enough warmth to the room? Look forward to hearing from ya again.
Liz
Liz,
) or you could have the girls in champagne or gold.
Something like this could work. Orange is a compliment to all the colors in the carpeting, so it wouldnt be a problem. To have that cozy, warm feeling stick with warm shades instead of cool shades( which are blues,etc. I posted a pic with simple red roses marching down a white linen. It is very warm and inviting, classy and the perfect balance for this venue. I just had an idea. Would you consider red and gold, axing the black using that only in the guys attire? It would look amazing, cozy, and romantic. I looked at the walls and they look more of a fallish golden yellow. A cozy yellow. With the lights dim, we are talking serious romantic, warm, inviting tablesetting. Your setting has loft-like qualitites, so I am playing on that decor as well. Girls could also be in black with deep red bouquets. Then you wont have to worry if it compliments( which it will regardless
Liz,
Look at some of these…
You could easily have shades light to dark with a pop of pink etc. in the mix.
red and gold right here….
or this amazing wedding right here…
( after carefully studying this wedding, I compared it to your venue pic and it was absolutely amazing. Not to mention the pink has the right pop to bring a romantic red wedding with a tad of hip to it. LOVE IT!!
Stacy, thanks for the ideas:) I love them and I like the idea of doing deep red and gold. Maybe an ivory table setting with gold candelabras and random pops of deep red flowers. I have a lot to think about! thanks again:)
Hi Stacy,
Thank you very much for the ideas!! I have really had fun and inspiration at the same time.
Am l to wed in December. The venue will be at an open field (with green grass n trees at the background. Up to now, l have not yet decided on the colour. I want it to be very classy and unique. My boyfriend loves jangle green, he wants us to blend it with either gold or brown. Please advise.
Also advise on what colours that would look good on men. Also the floors and cake……
Thanks in advance,
Immaculate
Kenya
Immaculate,
I think this would look fantastic in a field.
With all the green grass and trees, you will need a color to keep everything from blending in.
The guys could easily wear taupe suits with brown and green striped tie and girls in brown with green bouquets. ( if only using brown and green)
This is an option, using a shade of purple, girls in brown, green and purple bouquets, guys could still wear taupe..
THIS would be perfect!…
See this series …
And another one from this series.
Hi stacy,
Am stressed by now with only 2 month to go.
We have agreed on the maids dresses to be jungle green and gold with the best maid and maid of honor in chocolate brown……but for the men attire, a challenge still remains….
My Fiance chose for men: black stitched suits with lime green shirts, gold cravats and pocket hankys, black shoes n brown sock. What do u think..please advise…the theme of the wedding is JUNGLE
I was thinking of beigde suits for the men…n mayb for shirts, a shade of gold…l dont know, very confused, save the situation please
Immaculate,
The guys attire seems a bit busy. I think I would simplify it for a more elegant look. I would have them in chocolate with gold vests and tie or the green vest and tie. Or the khaki with guys in green ties and grooms tie in white or chocolate. You could even have the guys in khaki with a striped tie in your colors.
Some examples of attire….
Check out how this wedding looks…..
( this would be a sharp look for the guys, have them in classic suits or tuxes and boutonnieres match the girls dresses, white for the groom suit).
I am getting married next July. I am having an outdoor ceremony in the mountains of Colorado. The reception and cocktail hour will be in their rustic lodge. The lodge is lighter wood. The ceremony will be by the St. Vrain River, near Rocky Mountain National Park. With all this in mind, I was thinking earthy tones are probably going to work best. We also wanted to combine our favorite colors, pink and blue. Can you do a pink, green, and blue wedding without it clashing with all the scenery in the background? Another thought I had was just to go bold with fuschia and cobalt blue, but will that work in the mountains?
Runningmandy,
These shades would work. I tried brighter shades but you zone in the florals and not the scenery. Muted tones like rose pink, antique blue, and green ( greenery) or added green hydrangea. I would stick to old fashioned flowers or wildflowers. Pair this with girls in navy and guys in taupe and navy or grey and it will look nice, example florals found here…..
This would seriously work, add a tad more pink if you wish…
Runningmandy,
Blush, blue, green makes a beautiful bouquet…
This would work well too….
Check this out!
Blue mason jar ideas…
Hi – I’m so glad I found this site!! My wedding is next summer and I’m having trouble deciding on a color palette. Here is my dress:
and photos of the wedding venue – the ceremony is on the long porch outside overlooking the ocean and the reception is in the ballroom inside. weather permitting we’ll have a lot of photos on the beach after the ceremony.
i’m leaning toward some shade of purple or lavender for the bridesmaids. any advice you have would be so helpful! i’m torn between a really bright color palette or keeping things pastel and muted.
thanks!!
Nicole,
beauiful gown and venue. What time will your wedding take place? lavenders, blues, purples in a evening wedding will look grey or fade into the background. Color and time of day can make all the difference in your pics.
But look at this…
Seriously nice….
This would be perfection at your venue…
and this and this
This has a great site for pics…
Let me know what you think and we can go from there. I personally think the one where I said perfection would be awesome!
Wow, those are some beautiful suggestions, thank you!!! Especially love the one where you said perfection :)
The other direction I am thinking of going is a sea glass color scheme – light blues and greens with a pop of color in the flowers (I don’t want everything to be pale and pastel-y) but I’m having a hard time finding examples online that I love, do you have any suggestions/examples?
My wedding is a 5 pm ceremony, so in early June it should still be pretty light outside.
thanks so much for all of your help!!
Nicole,
I might have a wedding you may love.
This is very, very nice…
and see this ( may require signing in or up but it’s free)
Here ya go…..
And one more.
Nicole,
This is nice..
And this one.
Awesome….
these are so incredibly beautiful, so many things to think about. i can’t thank you enough for your help!!!!
I’m having a hard time picking out colors that will go with the bridesmaid dresses. I’ve chosen David Bridal’s “wine” color. My wedding date is 9-10-11. I’m leaning towards various shades of pink. I’m so afraid this isn’t going to work. I’ve stressed so much about it, that I even dream about flowers & colors.
Please help~!
Charity,
various shades of pink will be a perfect compliment. Can I see your venue link/pic to make sure?
Charity,
Look at this…
Hope this helps!
Hi,
I need help please!!!!
I am having my wedding in my home country Costa Rica. The wedding ceremony will be on grass near the beach (picture shown). and the cocktain reception will be outdoors as well (picture below) then will have dinner and dancing in a salon. I just dont know what colors to choose. My husband to be wants to have blue in the mix but I really like ligh turquoise. Help.
Mariana,
Shades of blue would look nice….
more blue
tiffany blue
This is a beautiful wedding. You could also have the guys in navy blazers to pull in some blue.
This would be amazing in your venue…
Are there any other particular colors you like or were you leaning to just blue?
This is very pretty….
Mariana,
you may like this….
You will love this site, very helpful. The one with the darker blue linens with silvr shimmer overlays and light to dark shades of hydrangeas is amazing…
Thank you the pics are amazing…I like orange and I though we could use it as accents for the flowers, center pieces, etc…
Wow, I’m glad I found this site, I can really use your assistance! I am having my reception in a botanical garden building that looks pretty much like a giant greenhouse. My dress is oyster with deep red, almost wine detailing and my bridal party will be in the same wine color. I was looking at a deep teal and navy to accent the colors but my fiance really wants green, his favorite color. I am afraid green with wine will look too Christmas, can you think of any way to bring a cool color pallete with green that would compliment. I am at a loss. Thanks!
Virginia,
With alot of green in the greenhouse, it may need another color to really have impact.
This is an organic approach is very beautiful and pulls in some green….
Add a tad more green, maybe some green hydrangea and more greenery to the peach and burgundy which would be beautiful…
Virginia,
* see this
With more green…
This would be very gorgeous…..
Perfect! It has your colors without being holidayish…
This would suit very well, look at the burgundy tints in the hydrangea…
Virginia,
* check this out
I thought the pics looked stunning together. You could always do a different green and add a blush pink and have the tinges of burgundy in the hydrangea, green orchids, or florals. The other is brighter florals you may like.
Helping future daughter & son with wedding. The moms are wearing gold. brides maids crismon. the men gray with red ties. What color should the grandmothers wear? lost
Renee,
I usually recommend dress colors best for skintone. If your wanting a complimenting look then stick with a great classic color. She should choose something that makes her feel comfortable and beautiful and it should be based more on the formality of the wedding instead of matching the colors. This is actually an old rule that no longer applies. She actually shouldnt wear a color or style that too closely matches the bm dresses. Semi-formal she can choose from a nice dress or pantsuit. Formal a elegant dress or skirt suit. I have also seen some nice formal pantsuits. If matching is a concern, consider a metallic color if her skintone can carry those colors…maybe a platinum would look nice. Charcoal would be beautiful too.
Thanks for your reply that was a help. You always want make sure everything blend some kind of way. I really like the platinum.
Hello Stacey,
We just booked a beautiful reception place on the waterfront- Woohooo what a relief! Now I can finally sleep! We are having it at the Oakville Club and our reception room has dark brown wood ceiling, a big fireplace and nice big chandlers. It is a cozy room and really reminds me of a cottage. Originally I was wanting an all ivory wedding, buut now that I see that our reception place is very cottage-like I wasn’t sure if that would be a good idea. What colours and flowers would you recommend? I really like light, soft colours.
Thank you in advance for your help!
Oops! I forgot to attach a picture of our reception room.
We need some help with the colours, the flowers…and just how to make it romantic :)
Jessica,
All white or ivory is absolutely perfect!! So would be black( for guys and gals attire) and white, or another classic color paired with the ivory. Your venue has a loft like feel too. Which this would be perfect in the setting, it hs a romantic yet touch of contempory which would really compliment……
* see this
I just love white or ivory weddings, totally romantic and dreamy….sigh.
Jessica,
This is seriously nice too!
Wow thank you SO much Stacey!! You have helped us out so much! I’m so grateful for you!
Thank you very much! :)
Jessica,
Breathtaking!
For a cottage look roses and greenery are a must. I would actually stick to the two and keep it simple and lush yet low centerpieces. Like the very first link I gave you ( backyard wedding, have more cottage floral containers and pair with more streamlined( not to modern) votive or candle holders. If you are using a florist, ask for the budget blooms, using white or ivory will open up alot of options and is a key color with a cottage theme. If you diy then fiftyflowers website is great. For containers you can always choose milkglass or clear urn/footed hurricane vases. Hope this helps!! With this color scheme, your girls and guys can wear black or any color that compliments their skintone.
hi, im planning a wedding, and i want to use move,pink and white. can u give me ideas on how the combination should be done and how the decoration should be done? pls add some pictures.thanks
maame,
* check this out
* see this too: pink weddings
Maame,
love this…
Here are three pink weddings you might like: one, two and three
loads of pics…
thanks a lot. will u advise me to go ahead and use lilac/mauve, pink and white? do you think the combination will be nice? can u suggest which shades of the lilac/mauve, pink and white that i should use, and recommend how the colours can be used for the groom’s vest and tie as well as the bridesmaid? thank u

Maame,
Something like this would be nice…
pink, purple and cream
Very nice, this has a deeper color for the girls and the lighter colors are set against it…
Maame,
Some examples of mauve…
glamorously purple wedding
I like the deeper shade of dress with the mauve, pink, lilac bouquet. It looks elegant. For the guys, have them with the matching mauve. Then the groom can wear a colored vest and tie or a vest and tie to match your dress.
Decor style…
Hello!
I am planning a wedding in November of 2012. I do not want the traditional fall colors. I am struggling to find something I like. I like to be different from everyone else, I want unique. I also want everything to be very elegant! Please help a girl in need!
Thank you,
Mariah
Mariah,
Can I get a look at your venue pic or link?
Hi Stacy i need ideals on the colors of my bridal party flowers what colors should i get for them, and what colors for myself.
my centerpeices are roses so should i go with roses for the flowers? bridesmaids dresses are fuschia, my dress is white.
Ranae,
I would go with all roses it is very stunning. It would be super beautiful and a budget saver also, to simplify the floral choices to one flower in one to two colors. Alot of wedding planners actually suggest this. Think the colors to match the gown and possibly add some fillers or even some jewels to set it apart. Another option is you carry a fuschia bouquet against a white dress and white bouquets wrapped with matching fuschia ribbon for fuschia dresses. Guys in classic black or grey with fuschia boutonnieres. The impact is amazing! simplify it down and it makes planning a breeze. You could also add varying shades of “fuschia” from a lighter shade to a deeper shade.
* see this
* Like this bride…
hi Stacey,
I have a wedding in December and i still have a problem with my theme colours.
I am thinking of champagne, gold orange and some wine red.It will also have white sa well for the seat covers. I want a classy and elegant look. Please guide me am really confused!
Muyingo,
Love these colors. Can I see your venue link or pic? So I can tell what will work best? Thanks!!
Hi Stacey,
Thank you for the kind reply. My venue is Lubowa Gardens and the link is http://www.lubowagardens.net
Thank you!
Muyingo,
Check out the reception photo….
* see this too
Muyingo, Love this!!
* see this
* and this
* and one more
wow, this is lovely Stacey!
I love da pictures and i feel so relieved with the colours i will make sure they are well coordinated for the best.
Thank you so much for the guidance.
Stacey, am also kindly requesting for assistance regaring da colours for my mais dresses.
I have 6 maids and i want them to have 2 different colours from our theme colours. I would like the first four to wear the same colour and the last 2 to have a differnt colours.
I want these colours to be well coordinated. Please guide me.
thx.
Muyingo,
This site will help alot….
I think if some of the girls could wear champagne/gold with a wine-red sash, then have the others in wine-red with a chamapagne gold sash. I would check with their skintones.
Thank you so much Stacey!
Now, which colours should the groom use for his vest.Kindly also guide me on where to find good deals for the groom.
Please also help me with some ideas regarding the cake with my colours.
Thank you.
Also,
muyingo,
* see this
* Here is a cake…..
( you coudl have it with more gold and add few red and orange flowers, keeping it more lush at base.
The grooms vest could match your dress. For a classy elegant look, going with more traditional, classic tuxes is key. MensWearhouse website is a good. Davids bridal also has a section for tuxes.
Thank you so much Stacey! Am really greatful.
Thank you so much Stacey,am really greatful! GBU
Hi Stacey,
With the maids having champagne/gold and wine red,which colour should the maid of honour use?
muyingo christine,
If you want her to stand out why not have her in the same color as the grooms tuxes? Or have her in a shade of burnt orange that compliments her skintone? I was actually thinking brown or black would look amazing with the other dresses and give her a solid wine colored bouquet. It would be classy and not go against your color scheme since the guys will likely be in black. Or you culd have her in a differnet style in either the solid wine or champagne and have her bouquet different than theirs.
Thanx Stacey,
I truely luv da colours! Ma maid of honour is light skinned, of all the colours what would work out best?
Muyingo,
Here is a helpful link…
I would ask my MOH and bm which color they like best etc. and have dress or color swatches to compare to the skintones and see which is best.
Thank you so much Stacey, the link was so helpful.
For the groom en best man, what colour were u referring to when you said they will wear the colour of your dress? Please clarify!
Thank you.
muyingo christine,
I meant the groom can wear a black and white tux while the groomsmen are in black with black vests. It will give the groom distinction from the other guys. For classy and elegant I would go this route because your bms are going to wear different shades and ifthe groomsmen vest match each of their dresses not flow was well. Just have the boutonnieres matching the girls dresses if you wish. Another route you can go is having the groomsmen in black and champagne vest and tie. It will also anchor the colors well, unlike having all burgundy vest and ties. Hope this helps!!
This is great, thank you Stacey!
Awaiting your response in respect of the best colour for the maid of honour.
What color should my mother and mother in law wear? wedding colors fuschia and grey
Ranae,
She should go with a color that best suits her skintone. Think classic colors, they will look very nice. Or a shade of pink.
Hi Stacy,
You are AMAZING! We are getting married May 4, 2012 at the Ca D’Zan in Sarasota, Florida. The ceremony, cocktails and reception will all be held on the 8,000 + sq. ft terrace overlooking Sarasota Bay. We are going for understated elegance with an Italian flair. Our colors are blue, green, white or platinum?? I really want to use peonies (maybe too early), delphinium and dendrobium orchids along with fruits and vegtables. HELP???
Dawn
Dawn,
I think having the girls in blue and add maybe a touch of blue hydrangea would work well with this wedding.
Hello Stacey, I love all the word that you are doing! You are very talented! :)
I am getting married next summer and would loove to have an all white wedding (White is my favourite colour/shade). I was wanting my bridesmaides to wear white dresses too, but I am worried that I won’t stand out/be special since they are wearing white too. I am wondering what other light colours would go well with light and what flowers you would recommend? I love lilies..
I am trying to go for an elegant, pure classic wedding look, with lots of flowers and candles. I sort of like the slightly vintage/cottage style wedding too- oh boy it is so hard to make decisions. Any help would be greatly appreciated! :)
Jessica,
Thank you!!
I higjly recommend looking thru this site at white weddings…
This has your name all over it! Have the girls in pale pink or gray. Black dresses would really pop!
Hello! your advice is wonderful. I have to tell you I am struggling. The colours this year seemed to be all vintage and beautiful but i am already so sick of it I decided I want to go for grey, yellow and/or pink.
My hall on the other hand…is stunning but its colours are so strong! I met a decorator who said grey can still work but I think it would clash.
It is an evening wedding, very dressy and i want a lot of details. i love purple too but its so over done in my family. And red seems too old…gold looks tacky, black too dark. I don’t know!! ahhh.
Please help!!! Any recommendations will be great.
(I’ve included a picture of the hall at the Hilton Lac Leamy, Ottawa, when it was fully lit up–and not with the type of classy decor i like)
Oh, and the wedding is in end of June 2012 (unsure if that matters? :) )
Thank you very much for your time!
Batool, This would work beautifully. The venue has a art deco appeal.
This would be perfect, add a touch of yellow to the florals if you wish. Have the girls in pewter, guys in black and pewter. Have mixed color bouquets for the girls. Have lots of creamy whites like in the pics. You could easily add crystals to this.
* check this out
Thank you very much for the reply! My concern is the white will be too much and like in the picture I have of the hall, it will clash and be too bright…not as elegent.
I was going through recommendations you have made in the past…do you think this will be too much colour for an already colourful hall?
* recommendation one
* recommendation two
and maybe instead of the red I will just do hot pink with taupe linen and chair covers.
Batool,
I tried those links but they are to much for the venue. You said you like yellow too. Actually that could be a stunning color in this room. It will play off the focal point of the room, the ornate light fixture. On a champagne linen this could work. I am not completely sold on the pink in the venue, after comparing pics side by side with the venue pic. Have you considered a solid champagne wedding with pops of color in the bm bouquets? pair it with lots of candlelight and crystals. Another pairing would be champagne and shades of orange from light to deep. I know you didnt like black and white but you coudl also use black and champagne with a hint of blush and apricot….
I posted a pic of a black and white wedding.
Here is a brown and ivory one with feathers. the feathers would be dramatic and fitting for the venue….
This type centerpiece would be stunning and not compete with the venue. Consider have the room washed in a pale pink with uplighting.
hi my wedding is on 24 December 2011, i love the colours baby blue, ivory & green. I’m not sure whether green & baby blue will look good together. I also need help with centre pieces. please help
Cathy,
These colors look wonderful together.
Cathy,
* take a look at this and this
Oh thank you very much stacey, this will help a lot…… The colours look stunning together.
Hi Stacey, I’m having problems fitting both colours in the decor. My venue is Vanilla Sky(www.vanillasky.co.za)
The chairs there are cream in colour & it mean I must cover them & also have white table cloths. I don’t know how to mix my colours with white & I did’nt want to have chair covers but I don’t lyk the wooden chairs.
Please help
Cathy,
Here are some pics like I was thinking….
I posted a pic you could copy. Instead use pale blue chair sashes, pulling the light blue and green into the centerpieces. The other posted pic shows creamy roses with pale blue and pale green hydrangea. You could also rent pale blue table linens or overlays and use cream chair covers with matching pale blue sashes.
cathy,

With the white it will be fine even if you dont use overlays. But if your concerned, then overlays will help alot. With the blues and green, added creamy roses it will look beautiful, add candles. Most venues dim the lights and guests dont notice the difference in shades at weddings.
I am getting married at the end of September in New England. I do not want to do the traditional fall colors (red/orange/brown). I have always loved period films, like Pride & Prejudice, and lean to a combination of colonial and contemporary when decorating. My reception venue is a georgian style inn, with cream colored walls and federal style accents. I am stumped on color ideas. I want it to have an elegant feel but still have a little colonial inspiration. I was thinking something with either blue or purple? Any ideas? Thanks in advance.
Leigh,
I love period films too! What a great concept for a wedding. If you want your wedding to have a true nostaligic feel then go with a shade of purple. More of a muted purple.
Using grapes and florals would be perfection…
Having just grape centerpieces and white colonial style plates, silverware, and stemware. Then pull in urns of flowers in strategic places in the room. Old world style.
Leigh,
* see this
They were all about florals, look at this gorgeous wedding! pale vintage tones.
Love this, it has more modern touches…
* this too
In purple, this would work…
* another one
Leigh,
This is gorgeous!!
( add some jane austen books in the centerpieces)
* ballroom wedding by amorology
* timeless vintage wedding
use old world font on invites etc. Anything used in urns, candelabras, white linens, etc. would fit the era. Avoid imported florals, use natural looking garden style flowers. I watched Emma last night and she was decorating using apple garlands, greenery, fall flowers. In what nature provided.
Like this…
especially this..
Wow!…this is really pretty and has that Jane Austen feel…
this too..
(also this and this)
Stacey,
Thank you so much for all those links! You have given me some great ideas, and I feel really inspired now! I especially loved the one which incorporated the books into their centerpieces and escort cards. Clever! Your love of period films shows with all the amazing ideas you gave me :)Thanks again.
i am getting married in october. the wedding would start at 4pm. my colours are orange,yellow and gold. what do you think about it and how can i combine them as regards my bridesmaids and chief bridesmaid. which on the colours should be dominant. thank you. love what you are doing
Tominmy,
Thank you for the kind words. The color would depend on ttheir skintones. I would have them try on dresses in the 3 colors. I am thinking gold will suit the best. Then pull in orange and yellow florals. Guys in black and champagne vests.Burnt orange may work well too.
Example: previous board I did…
I just changed it with gold/champagne…
Hi, I am planning a late May wedding and choosing colors seems to be a big issue with my fiance’ and I. I love dark colors, but he hates them. He tells me to lighten up and I feel like his choices look like Easter service at church. He refuses to wear black and ony wants to wear white. He doesn’t want his groomsmen in black or brown either. I said I would go with pale pink or champagne for my bridesmaids and he can use gray. Or navy blue for my bridesmaids and his groomsmen in gray. He will be in white. I do not know which colors to choose and I’ve always envisioned guys in black :-( Do you have any advice?
Tina,
Actually I would suggest you choose a color he likes and one he likes. The venue, actually, should determine the color scheme. I have seen many brides have a set picture in their mind concerning favorite colors and the venue would clash. It is very important to secure the venue and choose complimentary colors. Gray is very nice and since you love dark colors pulling in a deep shade of red, purple, or pink really looks good. If you have always envisioned the guys in black why not just have the girls wear black dresses? See if your groom would meet you halfway with grey tux and black vest/tie. Then tell him you want pale florals like white and creams or pale pinks and yellows. This way you both win. If not have the guys in grey and the girls in the black and pull in the light florals. Black, silver-grey, white would be perfect for both of you, is classy and can fit “most” venues. If I could see your venue link or pic, I can see what colors work.
This is the venue…I have been looking at a brighter church because I wouldn’t mind doing hot pink or something along those lines…since that is my favorite color.
Tina,
Would you consider the navy, pink, or pewter and then have the guys in a grey tux? I have been comparing colors next to the venue pic and I think I have found a good combo. I wanted to find something that fits the venue, your colors, and not to bright due to clashing/competing with the ornatevenue. I am gonna post some pics with 3 different looks. I think having a raspberry pink floral with some lighter shade would work very well.
Tina,
Second look:
Tina,
Third look:
Thank you so much. I really like the second and third look. Should we have the guys in bow tie’s or regular gray tie’s like in the pics you sent.
Tina,
I would have like in the pics.
Plzz I’m getting married in the next three months..I’m having a problem with choosing my colors,I’m looking at orange,wine red and gold..I’m dark in complection so is my husband. Plz I need ur help.
im finding it hard to choose colors for my summer wedding, my familys had a few weddings in the last year useing pink, dark green, dark red, dark teal blue and lilac so really want my colors to look great and impresive makeing a real “wow” to the wedding. Any ideas?
i’m getting wed in summer but can’t choose a color as my familys had a few weddings in the last year and i dont want to use the same colors as them.we have had pink, dark green, purple, lilac, dark red and a dark teal blue. Any ideas for a bright summer wedding?
Dawn,
Can I get a look at your wedding venue? Also what are some of your fave colors? your future spouse fave colors?
hi iv not got any pics but my venue is arnald house rugby, we have a main hall which is a dul pink/red in color and a room with a bar which is a cream/yellow the rooms are a lovely size plenty of room for my 350 guests but the dul pink/red is proving to be a problem.we dont have any fave colors. Also im starting to worred about the guests deviding between the two rooms and not mixing im not sure what to do?
Dawn,
I would feel more confident in my advice, looking at the venue so I can see the layout and the colors. Thanks!
Two rooms with guests they will not mingle as well. it will leave you both running back and forth trying to socialize and some important events can be missed out on. Do you have a link to the site? Or where it is located. I tried to find it without luck.
we have a new venue now its just the one cream room with a grey carpet and wooden dance floor. So back to worry of a colour im looking at the candy colours but my partner likes more bright bold colours but we both have said no to orange. HELP!
I have a question about invitations .
My family wants to invite more people than i attend to invite i want to put something on my invitations stating that one person plus a guest how would i write that.
Ranae,
You would just write the persons name and guest.
Example: Mr. John Doe and Guest
On RSVP wording:
_______ seats have been reserved in your honor
_______ delightfully accept
_______ regretfully decline.
_______ guests attending.
Ranae,
I wasn’t sure if you were meaning single guests could bring a date or there wouldn’t be children etc. If your inviting a married couple it would be Mr. and Mrs. couple and then 2 seats reserved in your honor. If they are unmarried and living together:
Ms. Janine Myers
Mr. Richard Stevenson
The inner envelope would read:
Ms. Myers and Mr. Stevenson
or
Janine & Richard
Hi! need your inputs:) what do you think is the best color combination when the wedding is to be held at 4PM and reception follows in a garden at 6PM? Thanks a lot in advance!
Rose,
Lighter colors or red shades are ideal. Purples and blues are not recommended because, if there isn’t enough lighting they can fade into the background looking grey. Are there any particular colors you like and what is the colors of the venue/garden flower colors?
Hello,
I am planning a May wedding and decided on the colors of sky blue, lilac purple, and green. I cant really find any pictures online of ideas for all these colors. I need ideas on how to decorate the church, and the reception. The flower I’m going to use is blue hydrangeas. Any ideas?
Here is a picture of the color ideas.
Thanks!
Jackie, Love it!!
* check this out, and this
search by color….
Jackie,
The girls could be in a shade of green with this combo, adding more green to the mix. I would add some green hydrangeas to the centerpieces as well.
* see this
Jackie,
Some decor ideas…
Thank you so much! I love the ideas, and the pictures are really helpful!
I am also planning a beach wedding in October but I can’t seem to figure out what color I want for the bridesmaid dresses. I really want pink and purple jewel tone flowers to give everything a pop but I just don’t know what color would best pull the look together.
Mary,
This sounds beautiful.
* see this
* Highly recommend this site for loads of visuals…
* gorgeous!… and this too.
* also check out this.
Mary,
Here is a couple more sites you may like…
* purple
* Nothing but beach or destination related….
When you look thru the sites, let me know if there is anything that worked. If not, I will be happy to look for more ideas.
Mary,
I forgot to give you a valuable link for choosing bm dresses. Either one will be great. Pinks are usually more universally flattering( gives skin a healthy glow) on skintones than purple, unless choosing something like periwinkle. It depends on how many colors your actually wanting to use. Or you could choose a neutral like grey, brown, or even a black chiffon and pair your colors against it, for serious pop!!
I am trying to decide on colors for a beach wedding in October. Not sure if I should go with white/ivory for my dress. Also the guys will be in white/Khaki, and for the girls capri blue. I have no idea as to what colors/types of flowers to use to compliment this.
Tifany,
I would go with the shade that suits your skintone best.
Tips…
Are you having beach reception too? If so, using just blues, khaki, white would be perfect. Or consider adding a shade of lavender.
General pics…
Tifany,
Love this wedding….
Loads of eye candy here…
Choose flowers that hold up in heat/sun well. Look to orchids, tropical flowers, all lilies, tropical greenery, etc. Roses are used too. I do love hydrangea for beach weddings but be sure to check with a florist first for th ebest flowers. More delicate flowers would be best under tents in a shaded area. Limit your florals and use more greenery, ferns, palm leaves, seashells, candles or lanterns( if permitted).