Color, Color Everywhere

When I ask most brides what colors they are using for their wedding , they usually respond with the color of their bridesmaids gowns, the color of their gown (either white or ivory), and occasionally one accent color. But the trend for 2011 is using a lot more color in wedding décor and by using multiple colors in accents and flowers you can make much more of a statement with your wedding style. Talk to your wedding stylist or planner about colors that will accent and enhance your overall style. Use your favorite color and then look at a color wheel and select colors that are across from your favorite color. These are called complimentary and split complimentary colors and they bring out the best in both colors. For example, do you know why the Christmas colors make us happy? Red and green are complimentary colors on the color wheel, so they bring out the best of each other. And pink is just red with white added to it so pink and green are magical wedding colors. For a fun and happy wedding, choose bright colors such as saturated pink, green, orange and purple.

The other color combination on the color wheel that works beautifully for weddings is the analogous color scheme. Analogous means similar or related so analogous colors are beside each other on the color wheel. Examples are red, orange and yellow or blue, purple and green. Analogous colors are more soothing and calming and can give you a very coordinated look. So again choose your favorite color and then accent with the colors on both sides of it on the color wheel.

The last combination is to use tints and tones of the same color which means colors that add white or black to the base color for the most elegant of color schemes. Examples of this are different shades of red from pink to red to dark burgundy or lavender to purple to deep violet. One of the favorite current combinations of this color combination is varying shades of ivory to champagne and latte and chocolate brown. Choose gowns and tuxes in this shade family and then add lush flowers in shades of ivory and you will have a truly traditional and elegant look for an incredible wedding.

Some ideas for adding touches of color in your wedding palette – choose bridesmaids gowns that are flattering to all your attendants and then add your favorite color in a sash, jewelry or shoes. Add a fun pair of bright blue shoes under your wedding gown. Add color in flowers or table linens to bring a splash of excitement to your reception. Don’t be afraid to have fun with color at your reception to give your guests a surprise and boost of fun for the party.