To Theme or Not to Theme?

Before you can even think about planning a wedding, or any event for that matter, you need to have a theme.  A theme can help unify your event through color scheme, invitations, decor, and attire to pull off the atmosphere you desire.  When brainstorming this unifying idea keep your location, wedding date, and personal style at the forefront of your mind.  So how could you portray your chosen theme?

The Invitation
Before your guests even get to your wedding, the invitation serves as a hint for what is to come.  Having a beach wedding? Perhaps you add a starfish graphic to the invitation.  Going for an old Hollywood theme? Throw a splash of fire engine red on a sleek black and white invite.  The invitation you choose will carry over into the event through the place cards, dinner menu, and ceremony program.

Beach
by The Green Kangaroo

Romantic
by Wedding Paper Divas

Outdoor
by Wedding Paper Divas

Formal
by Bella Figura

Retro
by Storkie

Modern
by Wedding Paper Divas

Color Palette
Use your color scheme as a support to your theme.  Choose relaxing blues and golds for a country affair or vibrant pinks and oranges for a preppy party.  Colors will set the mood for your guests.  It will provided the energy intended and give the room life.  I think every event should use as many colors as the host feels acceptable; why only have two colors when you can use the whole color wheel?  That being said, there are limits.  I believe three colors should be the dominant features: a neutral base and two compliments.

Photo Credit: Azul Photography

Photo Credit: Charles and Meg Baisden Photography

Photo Credit: Baltazar Photography

Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.

Photo Credit: John Labbe

Photo Credit: Think Photographics

The Venue
In my opinion, the most important piece of this puzzle is the venue.  The location for the ceremony and reception will speak the loudest to your chosen theme.  For the traditional bride, your family church and a ballroom is the ideal choice.  For a more modern & sleek bride, go for a museum or sculpture garden where you can embrace minimalism and clean lines.  The laid back, eco-friendly bride may go for an intimate, relaxed garden wedding.

Beach
Photo Credit: Captured by Jen

Rustic Barn
Photo Credit: Smitten Photography

Mountains
Photo Credit: Twin Lens Images

Garden
Photo Credit: Jessica Claire Photography

Cathedral
Photo Credit: Zoeica Images

Snow
Photo Credit: Erin Hearts Court Photography

Bridal Attire
The wedding dress is a focal point of a wedding.  I mean, as the bride, you get a standing ovation just for walking into a room in a beautiful white gown!  You should choose a dress that fits the atmosphere and location of your event, as well as your personality.  Don't choose a ball gown for an outdoor wedding, and don't choose a simple sheath dress for a formal black-tie affair.  Keep your personal style and tastes present by making smart choices.  If you're having a formal wedding but your personality lends more to backyard picnic, you can choose a simple dress design without the glitz and glamor, accompanied with a formal silhouette and fabric.  There are hundreds of ways to let your personality shine through and still keep within a desired theme.

Garden Gorgeous
Photo Credit: Lisa Lefkowitz 

Elegant Bridal
Photo Credit: Docuvitae

50's Hollywood Glamor
Photo Credit: Docuvitae

Modern Mademoiselle
Photo Credit: Photogen- Inc

Outdoor Social
Photo Credit: Lara Kimmerer

Vineyard Romance
Photo Credit: Michelle Walker Photography

Beach Style
Photo Credit: Alison Bank Photography

Princess and the Castle
Photo Credit: Alexandre Weddings

Country Casual
Photo Credit: Watson Studios

Second Line in Style
Photo Credit: Artisan Style Photojournalism
My Personal favorite-- keeping tradition alive in the greatest city with a New Orleans second line!

Keep in mind that it's your big day and you should make it your own.  There are no rules in the world of event planning.  Unless you are having a wedding in New Orleans- the second line is mandatory!