Right after securing the venue and finding the dress, selecting your wedding colors is a major decision. Color can influence mood and theme (something we will discuss in a future post), setting the tone for your big event. When trying to decide on what palette to use, first consider three basic factors:

What colors do you love (and hate)?

This may sound like a really basic question, but sometimes brides are tempted to go with what is trendy over what they love. Big mistake. In ten years no one will remember that orange was the hot shade of 2012, but if you have never been fond of the color, chances are you will wince every time you see the photos of the wedding party. Go with colors that you love, regardless of the trend.  Pick combos that make sense and look effortless.

Be descriptive—go Pantone.

Sure, a system of letters and numbers seem pretty unromantic (why can’t the people who name lipstick shades go work for Pantone?), but it is the best way to communicate the exact color you  want. There are a gazillion shades of red. Save yourself a lot of hassle and find the exact Pantone shade that represents it (helpful hint: if you are looking at colors online, look at it on several different computers—screens can display colors differently). This will make everything from bridesmaid dress shopping to napkin rentals much easier.

What season is it?

You really can pick whatever colors you want for any time of year. However, sometimes you want your wedding to have a distinctive seasonal feel. Want your wedding to elicit the warmth of summer? Embrace sunny citruses and cheery brights. A wintery wedding filled with snowy magic? Look to whites, grays, and metallics. Would you like your guests to remember your very autumnal affair? Go with warm earth tones.

For more color inspiration, visit our inspiration boards section and our Pinterest page.

 

Photo Credit: Sarah Postma Photography