With the multitude of wedding magazines, websites, blogs, television and more out there today, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the choices available to you. My suggestion? Before you look at the first wedding anything, look around your home. What magazines and books do you already own? What draws you to them? What colors are on your walls, your furniture, your accessories? What kind of style - contemporary, country, classic...? Whether you have a passion for fashion, gardening, home decor, or something completely different, think about how these natural "likes" could be reflected in your wedding.

It's easy to flip through a wedding magazine, and find many, many beautiful things that you love - and you will love them - but if you haven't already determined what you love outside of wedding design, you could very easily end up with either: A) a wedding that does not reflect your genuine style, or B) a hodgepodge of ideas that get tossed together, regardless of how they coordinate.

Finally, check in with your other half. Each of you should make a list of two-three favorite colors, plus activities and hobbies. Think of things you share - perhaps you have a sport you enjoy together, a favorite shared hobby, or perhaps a special vacation spot? What is it you each adore about the other? What makes your bond unique? Answering these questions can create a firm foundation on which to create your signature wedding look. (This isn't to say you should use everything on your lists - edit accordingly. However, you just might learn that your second favorite color is the same on both your lists - an obvious place to begin a wedding palette.)

Just remember to start with who you truly are first, then layer the wedding look on top of that. You'll be thrilled with the end result!

Cheers!
Heather
The Event Concierge

A successful event has a simple formula. It must be attractive and inviting, comfortable and informative. Colors function as part of the equation. After catching your guests' attention, color provides a structured message and visual harmony to enhance the experience.

If you didn’t take an art class in high school, we’ll start by listing the three basic types of color combinations: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Red, Yellow, and Blue are the primary; Orange, Green, and Purple are the secondary. The secondary colors fit between the primary, making a six-point star. The tertiary colors result from mixing one primary color with one secondary color, and have no specific set names. An example would be yellow + green = chartreuse or lime.

Complimentary colors, colors that go best together, are opposite each other on the color wheel. So, Red pairs with Green, Yellow couples with Purple, Blue duos with Orange.

All shades of Gray work well as background colors, but what about Black and White, you ask? Black is the color of authority and power and popular because of its slimming effect. Black works well with bright jewel tones, conveying elegance, sophistication, or even mystery. White is soft and spring-like, the color for brides in Western countries. In Eastern cultures it is actually the color for mourning. Use White to signify purity, cleanliness, or make Reds, Blues and Greens look brighter.

Metallics, such as Gold and Silver, always add a special touch. Gold catches the eye lending richness and natural warmth, while Silver is glamorous and sleek. Both symbolize riches and elegance, but are best used in small amounts as accents.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can consider applying different tints of one color.  This can give the impression of using several colors when using only one. Deep hues are used to convey security, while earth tones feel natural and inviting. Truthfully, people are comfortable when colors remind them of similar things. Successful design requires an awareness of colors and their meaning, but don’t be afraid to play and see how you feel!

Always,
Amy