themes part two

I’m a sucker for a good theme, especially when properly executed. As I mentioned last week, it can be terribly overwhelming trying to decide on, and stick with a theme. Let’s back up a little. When I say “theme” I’m talking about the concept, color, vibe, etcetera that your wedding is built around. A theme could be as simple as a color combination or as elaborate as an era. However, choosing a theme can be incredibly helpful to the bride because when friends, family, vendors, planners, strangers are all giving you their opinion it can become the basis for elimination. “Yes, that IS a wonderful idea; unfortunately it doesn’t fit to theme.”

Themes tell you what to keep an eye out for, what to avoid, and basically give you a starting point. Maybe you’ve known what theme you’ve wanted since you met “the one” so this doesn’t apply to you but for those of you who are looking for some guidance, allow me to help.

As I mentioned last week, there are several things that can influence your theme without you really realizing it. First is the dress, obviously this is subjective because maybe you really, truly don’t care about the dress; maybe something else is more important. For most brides the dress is the most emotional purchase, however if something else is more important to you than by all means use that as your starting point for theme. Consider the dress, the venue, the time of year, the guest list, the budget. Write down several themes or concepts you are interested in and as you make decisions on the big things you can eliminate themes from the list. Ideally you will narrow the list, be able to confidently choose one them and begin execution. Once you pick a theme stick with it. No matter how cute/adorable/original the idea might be, if it doesn’t fit everything else it’s going to seem out of place and ultimately fail to impress.

However, if you are like me and have a telephone book sized list of totally doable themes and you can’t imagine eliminating even one, let alone all but one, than I have good news! The list of wedding related parties you could potentially have goes on and on. There’s engagement, bridal shower, bachelor/ette, bridesmaid luncheon, rehearsal dinner and post wedding brunches. And that doesn’t even include your actual ceremony and reception. Consider choosing a different theme for each event you plan on having. If budget is a concern pair the ones that are priciest to execute with those that will have the shortest guest list. Also, your ceremony and reception can be treated as two separate celebrations and don’t have to coincide with the theme. Have a lace and ivory, candlelit ceremony then swap your dress and lose the veil for a pink and leopard print reception. That can be tricky but with the right attitude and two separate spaces it can be totally feasible.