Maximizing decor
Decor accomplishes a number of things at an event. It sets a mood, surely, and makes a photographer's job a little easier. But details often make guests feel even more honored to be part of such a special day. When gathering ideas, keep a few guidelines in mind to maximize the elements you finally select.
Color
If people are asking what your colors are, get used to it. Color will guide many of your purchases, from invitations to bridesmaid gowns to flowers. When choosing your colors, consider your favorite hues, the season and even what matches your venue. Other ideas? Look to nature for combinations in flora or fauna native to your venue's region. You might even consider different shades of a single color. If going that route, take a trip to the paint section of your local hardware store and look at paint swatch cards for inspiration.
Level of formality
Do you expect your guests in black tie or flip-flops? Once you decide the overall tone of the event, you can decide whether silver candlesticks or plastic flatware will be more appropriate.
Theme
Themes can give focus to wedding mood and decor. Often themes fit the venue or something special to the couple. For instance, a destination wedding to a beach resort might include shell centerpieces at each table and a shell motif carried throughout all printed materials. Consider what would match the mood you want to create, and then how you make it apparent to your guests.
How to set the stage:
Identify major areas of focus for the guests. Place decorations where guest attention will be centered the most (such as the altar or the walkway to the seats). Walk through the ceremony or venue site as a guest might, and consider decoration placed throughout the guest's journey into the event. This might mean wreaths for the doors, baskets for the bathrooms, and decoration at key sites, such as where the guest book will be located. Focal points at the ceremony or venue site - such as stairwells, mantels and gardens - are usually strong candidates for attention, since they will create the most impact.
Don't forget decor at the tables where guests will be seated for meals. Centerpieces, napkin rings, favors and table markers help ensure even the smallest spaces at your wedding convey the mood of your event. Items such as linens, chair covers, chargers, stemware and flatware often are available from your venue or rental companies to further your theme.
