Trending wedding colors to inspire your big day

As a wedding stationer based in the heart of San Luis Obispo, California, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing countless couples’ unique visions come to life. One of the most exciting aspects of wedding planning is selecting a color palette that reflects both personal style and the ambiance of your special day. From the latest color trends to timeless hues, the choices can be as diverse and beautiful as the couples themselves. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through some of the most captivating wedding color trends for this year, offering insights into how these colors can influence various aspects of your celebration beyond just stationery.

1. Earthy Tones: Grounded Elegance

Earthy tones have been making a significant impact on the wedding scene. Think warm terracottas, muted greens, and rich browns. These colors evoke a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, making them ideal for outdoor weddings and rustic venues.

Floral Arrangements: Imagine a bouquet featuring dahlias in burnt orange, sage green eucalyptus, and soft beige roses. This combination brings a natural elegance to your floral decor.

Table Settings: Earthy tones work wonderfully in table settings, from terracotta plates to linen napkins in shades of olive. These colors create a harmonious and inviting dining experience.

Stationery: For your invitations, consider using these colors for a warm, rustic feel. Letterpress invitations with earthy ink tones on recycled paper can create a memorable and eco-friendly touch.

2. Bold Jewel Tones: Opulent Drama

If you’re aiming for a wedding that exudes luxury and drama, jewel tones are the way to go. Rich sapphires, deep emeralds, and royal purples offer a regal feel that’s perfect for an opulent celebration.

Bridal Gowns: Jewel-toned accessories, or even a deep sapphire gown, can add a touch of extravagance to your bridal look.

Reception Decor: Jewel tones can be used to create striking contrasts in your decor. Think velvet table runners, golden accents, and lush floral arrangements in shades of amethyst and emerald.

Stationery: Incorporate jewel tones into your stationery for a dramatic effect. Deep blue envelopes with gold foil lettering or a rich burgundy wax seal can elevate your invitations and set the tone for an elegant affair.

3. Pastel Perfection: Soft and Dreamy

Pastel colors continue to charm with their soft and dreamy appeal. Light pinks, gentle blues, and subtle lavenders are perfect for creating a romantic and whimsical atmosphere.

Cake Design: Pastel colors can transform your wedding cake into a work of art. Think delicate ombré layers or intricate floral designs in soft hues.

Guest Attire: Pastel shades are flattering on all skin tones and offer a gentle, cohesive look for your bridal party. Soft pink bridesmaid dresses or light blue groomsmen suits can create a beautiful visual harmony.

Stationery: For a pastel-themed wedding, choose invitations with watercolor illustrations or delicate floral patterns. Soft blush envelopes and subtle gold accents can enhance the pastel aesthetic.

4. Classic Black and White: Timeless Sophistication

The black-and-white color scheme is the epitome of timeless elegance. It’s a classic choice that never goes out of style and offers versatility across various wedding themes.

Venue Decor: Black and white can be used in numerous ways, from monochrome table settings to chic, minimalistic floral arrangements. This color palette is especially striking in urban and modern venues.

Attire: The bride in a classic white gown and the groom in a black tuxedo create a sophisticated look. Black and white can also extend to the bridal party, with groomsmen in black suits and bridesmaids in elegant white or ivory dresses.

Stationery: A black-and-white color scheme on your invitations exudes classic elegance. Consider using a bold black script on a white background or vice versa. Simple, clean lines and high-contrast designs can make a powerful statement.

5. Vibrant Tropical Hues: Exotic and Fun

For a wedding that captures the vibrant essence of summer, tropical hues are an exciting choice. Bright corals, sunny yellows, and turquoise blues create a lively and energetic atmosphere.

Floral Decor: Tropical flowers such as hibiscus, orchids, and birds of paradise can bring a burst of color to your arrangements. Pair them with lush greenery for an exotic feel.

Reception Details: Incorporate these bright colors into your table linens, centerpieces, and even cocktails. Tropical prints on napkins or table runners can enhance the festive vibe.

Stationery: Use vibrant colors in your invitations to set the tone for a fun and lively celebration. Bright coral envelopes and tropical-themed illustrations can give guests a hint of the vibrant experience awaiting them.

6. Monochromatic Magic: One Color, Many Shades

Monochromatic schemes involve varying shades of a single color, creating a cohesive and sophisticated look. Whether you choose a serene blue or a passionate red, this approach can add depth and interest to your wedding.

Decor Elements: A monochromatic color scheme allows for creativity in texture and material. For instance, different shades of the same color in your table settings, flowers, and drapery can create a unified yet dynamic visual experience.

Attire: Dress your bridal party in different shades of the same color for a harmonious look. For example, varying shades of blush pink can create a gradient effect that’s both elegant and visually appealing.

Stationery: Design invitations that use varying shades of your chosen color to add depth. A gradient effect or layered paper elements can make your stationery stand out.

Conclusion

As a wedding stationer, it’s incredibly rewarding to see how colors bring each couple’s vision to life. Whether you’re drawn to earthy tones, bold jewel hues, soft pastels, classic black and white, vibrant tropical colors, or monochromatic schemes, there’s a palette out there that perfectly captures your personal style and the essence of your celebration.

Remember, the key to a successful color scheme is ensuring it reflects both your personality and the atmosphere you want to create on your special day. When choosing your wedding colors, consider how they will influence everything from your invitations to your venue decor and attire. By thoughtfully integrating these hues into every aspect of your wedding, you can create a cohesive and memorable experience that you and your guests will cherish forever.

Happy planning, and may your wedding be as beautiful and unique as the colors you choose!