Themed weddings have grown in popularity as couples seek to set their event apart from scores of other weddings they've attended.

The key to a themed wedding is to create a balance between tradition and elements that tie into the theme. This way, the wedding is classy instead of over-the-top — unless, of course, over-the-top is what you want.

Decide on your theme

Develop a clear idea of what you'd like. Themes can range from tie-ins to seasons to specific interests, such as sports or hobbies, to a particular color scheme. Once you have a firm concept of your theme, you can plan and shop accordingly. We'll use a winter theme as an example. (Ideas for other seasons, Pages 49-68.)

Use save-the-date cards and wedding invitations to introduce your theme to your guests. A winter-themed wedding may feature a whimsical, swirly font evoking the feel of winter wind. Delicate polka dots could hint at falling snow.

Keep it simple

A winter theme can be achieved simply with color.

Draperies, flowers, seat covers, table linens, etc., in frosty blue, silver or white suggest winter. Avoid seasonal knickknacks — they'll make your room look cluttered and you could run the risk of breakage during transport. Aim for traditional, with subtle touches of the theme throughout.

Look for one concept that you can build upon, such as snowflakes or Champagne bubbles. The January 2010 issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine featured festive spheres made from foam balls and white baking cups — perfect for a Christmas or New Year's Eve reception. Using a hot-glue gun, you simply create the festive ornaments by bunching the baking cups to cover the balls. Hang from the ceiling with ribbon and removable adhesive hooks, and you'll transform a room.

On tables, place delicate doilies adorned with iridescent glitter under china and turn clear vases and candleholders into “mercury glass” using mirror paint.

For dessert, Italian pizzelle cookies dusted with powdered sugar look like snowflakes. Instead of Jordan almonds in favors, use large nonpareils. Ask the venue to create a signature cocktail that's white and frosty or set up a specialty coffee bar.

Add flowers and lighting

Nature provides snowball-shaped flowers, such as hydrangeas and guelder roses. Delicate alyssum and baby's breath add a snowflake appeal.

Changing the color or the scope of the lighting for different parts of your reception can create different moods. Ask a lighting designer about throwing pin spots with blue gels against alternating panels of white drape for the illusion of a winter wonderland.

Choose festive foods

Plan a menu with seasonal foods and beverages. A winter wedding might include roast pork and cranberries, bread pudding and eggnog.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

Extravagance in decor, wardrobe and special touches will help solidify the theme.

— Use coordinating accessories. Repetition of a common element is a simple way to carry out your theme. If you want a butterfly wedding, use pillar candles with butterfly accents and napkin rings adorned with butterflies, and hang delicate twinkle lights to simulate butterflies in flight.

— Involve your guests. A Renaissance wedding may inspire guests to dress in period clothing. But keep participation voluntary or risk regrets. Advance the theme by wording invitations and seating cards in Old English font.

— Expect naysayers. Some family members or friends may not be receptive to your theme idea. Express that you reserve the right to have the wedding you desire — especially if you're paying for the event. To keep the peace, incorporate traditional elements wherever possible.

Compiled by Wedding Essentials editor Chris Christen with information from Metro Creative Connections.

« Wedding Essentials

Share