Tag: wedding reception decoration ideas
courtesy of Victor Sizemore photography
After doing last Thursday’s post: A Return to Formailty: 5 Wedding Trends Designed to Razzle Dazzle ‘em, I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I spent almost half my time browsing through the images I found under “wedding chandeliers.”
I’m not even kidding.
Between the rustic and refurbished to the formal and fabulous, reception chandeliers, lanterns and the like were enough to make my head spin! For serious! When you consider the range light ceiling accessories have, it’s almost impossible NOT to be in awe! Well-lit, hanging fixtures can be adorned with everything from flowers and bubbles to crystals and twinkles… making them agreeable to sleek and modern settings, as well as eccentric and outdoor scenes!
Not only that but it’s the fact that all these overhead fixtures will all provide lighting… and everyone – from photographers and reception hall coordinators to designers and professional planners – will all agree that LIGHTING is key when it comes to creating ambiance and setting / keeping a mood.
Sinead Kelly of Duluux Color wrote:
Lighting is such a subtle – yet vitally important – design tool. Good use of lighting will bring to life the most mundane design schemes. Put together with a great interior and you’ve got the perfect partnership. Picking a fantastic light fitting is just one element of the job. Where you place it, how it operates and the effect it has on its surrounding area is twice as important.
And I couldn’t agree more! Think about it… Consider two evenings. Both are EXACTLY the same. You’re enjoying a nice meal with a nice man in a nice restaurant, but one is by candlelight and the other is under the harsh florescence of flickering bulbs. One (the prior) has a warm, romantic connotation; while the other almost takes on a the beginnings of a horrow movie classic. Not(&)Good.
Hence why lighting is sooooo important for setting the scene on your big day, and when you’re setting it, consider some of these overhead exposures, shimmering chandeliers and lovely lanterns for creating (& captivating!) just the right one! Check out below and let the lighting inspiration begin:
courtesy of (left to right, top to bottom) flickr.com, perfectweddingcollections.blogspot.com (inset), bellethemagazine.com, bridalguide.com, onewed.com, 1chandelierslighting.com, platinumtouchevents.blogspot.com, weddingomania.com, onewed.com, dawnephoto.com, stratfordevents.blogspot.com, artfire.com (inset), platinumtouchevents.blogspot.com, onewed.com, weddingelation.com and dawnephoto.com
May 7, 2013
courtesy of carolineplusben.com
The first time I ever saw custom lighting done was for my best friend, Bre’s fashion show at IU Bloomington. *Pause for a moment of fond recollection* Sigh, how I miss thee :)
Anyhoot, as it was for all design major students, Bre was responsible for creating a collection to present as a showcase for her final grade, and it was ahhhhmazing! The clothes killed it, but the set up was equally as INCREDS! Seeing “Bre” handwritten in what will surely become her famed signature in hot pink lighting? Fuhgetaboutit.
So, who knew after that day I would spend so many years never seeing it again? Until recently, that is. Nowadays, brides and grooms have started making a splash with custom lighting at their receptions! I mean, talk about a standout accessory! And even better? When using filters over lights, you get an extremely exciting look without taking a toll on your wedding day budget. Can you say, score? Big bang, little buck… it’s like the best of both wedding planning worlds :)
And don’t even get me started on the amount of possibilities that this bright lights, big city idea can create! Whether you choose to actually have lights made or simply use filters to create a personalized flare around the hall, I’m sure your guests will be nothing short of “ooh la la!” upon seeing it. Plus, the options are just as personal as the love the represent. Yet another win / win for the wedding world!
You can go big, bold and beautiful…
courtesy of keventlighting.com
Or small, sweet and sophisticated….
courtesy of stellardiscoveries.com
You could choose to feature something as long as your full names and wedding date…
courtesy of karma4me.com
Or maybe you want something a little shorter and more subtle? In that case, nothing works better than your just established marital monogram…
courtesy of thefrazzledbride.com
**Monograms are especially fun because you can really experiment with different fonts and varying sizes until you find the perfect fit :) Not to mention, monograms can make for interesting design, as well as a pop of personalized charm in your reception setting.
And speaking of interesting design, couples don’t just have to end their custom lighting kick with their names and dates. I’ve even seen where the newlyweds have also opted to light up the walls with all kinds of other faux fixtures. From chandeliers and damask patterns to florals and fabulously fallen leaves, custom lighting can really be exciting to experiment with.
courtesy of memorymakersdjs.com, bridalguide.com, hylite.com, karma4me.com and bridalguide.com
Really, you’re only limited by your imagination and local (or internet available) resources you can find. So, check in, check out and see just how amazing your names can look in lights :)
April 11, 2013
courtesy of lifeworkmediablog.wordpress.com
Drape them on your chairs. Tie them up in trees. Dangle them from ceilings. Cinch them in bouquets or simply let them fly free… but no matter what, be sure your big day celebration gets some serious use out of do-it-yourself ribbons!
According to the founder of Style Me Pretty, Abby Larson, “Ribbon details are huge right now.” She says, “Draped off the back of Chiavari chairs or hanging in a colorful line from a dessert table, ribbon is a cheap and gorgeous way to add that pop of color.” (glo.msn.com) And we couldn’t agree more!
With their cheap cost and whimsical appeal, brides and grooms everywhere are learning just how beautiful ribbon decorating can be! And because they come with such a punch of DIY status, you’ll really have fun seeing what kind of decor you can come up with next :)
It can be as monumental as canopying the entire ceiling of your reception hall with their silky goodness or as simple as creating small ribbon wands for guests to wave… truly the choice is up to you. See some inspiration below:
photos courtesy of (from left to right, top to bottom) amysallthingswedding.com, decorationideas.wordpress.com, amysallthingswedding.com, intimateweddings.com, mydreamweddingceremony.com, mydreamweddingceremony.com, elizabethannedesigns.com, emmalinebride.com, filledwithheart.wordpress.com, theknot.com (insert), prettypetals.typepad.com and wtfimalmostthirty.blogspot.com
April 5, 2012
courtesy of threenailsphotography.com via greenweddingshoes.com
Many years ago, a small-framed girl with a booming voice stepped out in pigtails and curls and belted out:
Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high. There’s a land that I heard of once in a lullaby. Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue. And dreams that you dare to dream really do come true.
And if dreams that you dared to dream really do come true somewhere over the rainbow, what better place to test that theory than on your wedding day??
That’s right, my little chick-a-dees, bold brides everywhere are choosing color, color and more color to accompany their wedding day themes, and I must say – after further inspection – I can really see why.
In all fairness, I was originally turned off by this all inclusive idea. Being a fan of the less is more approach, I have a tendency to not always see “more as better,” but simply “more.” However, after conducting my old standby investigative Google research, I’m happy to report I was pleasantly led into a world of “ooh la la.”
When you take the colorful theme and weave it into a DIY, nature-enfused, woods-inspired atmosphere, it radiates a feeling that is beyond reproach and incredibly hard to miss.
all photos courtesy of threenailsphotography.com via greenweddingshoes.com
But for the even bolder brides… you can take the rainbow theme to even more vibrant levels and leave no detail left in the dull and REALLY let color shine!
photos courtesy of (from top to bottom, left to right) bohocircus.typepad.com, raspberrytart.tumblr.com, brides.com, racksandmooby.blogspot.com, iftheringfits.blogspot.com, boards.weddingbee.com, bridalmusings.com, diazdays.blogspot.com and etsy.com
Either way, it really is an interesting concept, and one most definitely worthy of a share :) After all:
Someday I’ll wish upon a star, and wake up where the clouds are far behind me. Where troubles melt like lemon drops away above the chimney tops… that’s where you’ll find me :)
April 3, 2012
courtesy of fiftieswedding.com
Happy Valentine’s Day to all those who love! Whether you’re in it or out of it, love truly is all around us, and there’s no better day to exploit it (or try and avoid it, haha!) than February 14th!
Personally, I’ve always been a fan of the big V-day… even during my most single and sullen of days, I learned quickly to appreciate the holiday as one to simply celebrate love… in all its forms! The love I have for that someone special. The love I have for family. The love I have for friends. Etc. Heck, if nothing else, it’s a day to simply celebrate the fact that mailboxes are a little more full with pink and red cards and stomachs with pink and red cupcakes. Yum-may.
And with all the pink and red being displayed – from store front to home front - I couldn’t help but think about two-toned weddings and just how b.e.a.uuuutiful they can be — and in today’s Cupid themed case, just how b.e.a.uuuuutiful Pink + Red can be! Be sure to not only check out the images below, but also take some time to spread the love to someone today! After all, it is in giving that we receive :)
photos courtesy of (left to right, top to bottom) lovefromtheoven.com, halterneckwedding.onsugar.com, jessicalewisphoto.com, blog.celeb16.com, colorsareblushandbashful.blogspot.com, thestylishbloom.com, blog.paper-source.com, etsy.com, sophistimom.com and flickr.com
February 14, 2012
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
Maybe it’s the brilliant designs or the standout color blocking… perhaps it’s the fun, graphic schemes or simply the epically b.e.a.uuuuutiful photography (whaddya say, Lindsey K!)… either way, there is no if’s, and’s or but’s about it… I love love love our new table runner designs!!
Available in a variety of colors and designs to match any taste, each runner can be personalized at absolutely no cost to you! Simply choose from one of our hot color options, fill in the overhang with your names, monogram or initials and see how many ‘ooh’s and aww’s’ will be gasping the day you say ‘I do.’ Don’t believe me? Well the proof is in the pudding, my friends; so, grab a spoon and enjoy these tasty creations!
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer via marilynskeepsakes.com
Personalized Table Runners cover a lot of ground and create a lot of drama, and they are extremely simple and easy to use! Printed on durable 100% cotton, our fabric table runners feature a polymer coating for a soft, canvas like texture to produce superior draping.
Because bold colors and schematic patterns cut down the need for decorations, you’ll be able to save on extra costs by simply adding your place settings and centerpieces to the already well fashioned tables.
November 17, 2011
courtesy of doveweddingphotography.com
Because so many wedding trends tend to fashion around color, it’s no wonder that this colorful topic is among the hottest in industry news. Whether it is an unusual color combination or funky patterned table linens or even seasoned and stylized bouquets, brides everywhere have become aware of making their big day a bright and colorful occasion.
But what about the bride looking to create a cleaner look?
Well, she might try all white! Both simple and chic, all white weddings have a look that can be stylized both for vintage glam or modern flare. And if an all white pallet is simply too modern for you, try accenting it with another neutral color that will compliment its crisp design, while brining in a pop of interest. Blushes, creams and hydrangea greens all seem to do the trick. Check out below and let the inspiration begin!
photos courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right) blog.weddingpaperdivas.com, doveweddingphotography.com, kaboodle.com, dreamyapartment.com, weddings-invitations.org, blogs.dexknows.com and stevekoophotography.com
August 23, 2011
courtesy of treschicbride.blogspot.com
When throwing a shower for one of my girlfriends awhile back, I came across a little recipe for “cake pops” and have been OBSESSED ever since!
Being the regular Betty Crocker (for those of you that know me, please hold in your laughter) that I am, I decided this would be an excellent choice for a festive dessert! And if I’ve gotta be completely honest… it TOTALLY was! (Subsequently pats self on back) I made three kinds: Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry.
Now, while these three flavors may seem like nothing all too impressive, it’s what you can do with them that makes them so incredible! After baking the three cake mixes in the oven (according to the box instructions), I simpled let the pans cool for about 15 minutes before crumbling each flavor into a mixing bowl and stiring in the same flavor frosting. (White w/ Vanilla, Chocolate w/ Chocolate and Strawberry w/ Strawberry.) After which, I balled the sugary goodness into small circles and covered them with candy melt toppings.
It took a little practice, but once I got the hang of it, it was super easy… and even more delicious! I topped the White Cake Balls with vanilla icing and yellow sprinkles; the Chocolate Cake Balls with chocolate candy melts and coconut, and the Strawberry Cake Balls with a melted white chocolate candy bar and pink candy heart sprinkles (my faves!). I placed some on sticks, creating a gourmet sucker look and the rest I left on decorative trays for easy, sweet munching!
There are several options on how you can create your cake pops / balls, but I have yet to find one I didn’t enjoy! Take a look below for some delicious inspiration and easy to make recipes (found below images) and start poppin’ your way to party goodness!
Choloate and Turquoise Dream!
courtesy of karascakery.com courtesy of Google Images courtesy of bzevents.com
Pretty in Pink!
courtesy of bakersroyale.com
Citrus-y Goodness!
courtesy of bzevents.com
Wrapped with Love!
courtesy of etsy.com
Turtle-Something Surprise!
courtesy of cakebybridges.com
Cupcake Cuties!
courtesy of thehappychickadee.blogspot.com
Designed by Darlings!
courtesy of camillestyles.wordpress.com
Lined with Perfection!
courtesy of thesepeasarehollow.blogspot.com
Sweetly say “I do!”
courtesy of etsy.com
Example Recipe Guide for Reference:
- 1 Box of Cake Mix (Choose your favorite the flavor)
- 1 16 ounce Container of Pre-Made Frosting (Again, choose the flavor!)
- 1 3 ounce Bar of Flavored Confectionery or Candy Melts (Choose your taste yet again! Mixing and Matching is half the fun!)
1. Prepare the cake mix according to package details, using any of the recommended pans for backing. Once cake is baked fully, simply crumble the cake while still warm (but after 15 minutes of cooling) into a large mixing bowl, and stir in the frosting until well blended.
2. Melt your flavored confectionery or candy melt coating in a glass bowl in the microwave or a metal pot over a pan of simmering water on the stove-top, stirring occasionally until at a smooth consistency.
3. Use a melon baller or scoop (or even just your hands!) to form small balls (use Dunkin’ Donut holes as reference) of your cake mixture. Then, either dip the balls into the melted pan of goodness using a toothpick or simply drizzle it on top using a spoon to coat each one accordingly. Place on waxed paper to set.
4. Decorate accordinly. Place on sucker sticks if desired. Refrigerate once fully cooled.
5. & ENJOY!!
August 2, 2011
photo courtesy of sundaepaper.com
Nowadays, everyone is on a budget; so, when it comes to your wedding, it’s important to get the most bang for your buck. One way you can do this is by having centerpieces that double as favors!
One of my favorite dueling decorations is potted or replant able centerpieces that your guests can take home and enjoy long after the disco lights dim and the dances are done. By using dual purposed décor, you’ll not only create a standout look for your reception, but a standout memory for all your guests.
Everything from fragrant herbs and superb spices to vibrant blossoms and tall grasses can all be arranged to your liking and sent home with your guests for theirs. It’s a win / win for everyone!
And depending on your budget, you can easily make homemade plant boxes for super cheap, simply by using wood, nails and a stain of your choice… or leave the wood as is for an even cheaper, more rustic solution! As always, it’s really up to you. Get as over the top or under the radar as you want… just be sure to have fun and stay happy :)
Here are some of my faves:
photos courtesy of theknot.com and marthastewartweddings.com
July 16, 2010
In several areas and regions around the world, monograms have been used for centuries for a number of different reasons. Customarily speaking, they were used to display an artisan’s signature on his or her creation, but through the years, monograms were adapted as a unique way of personalizing one’s possessions.
I know. Blah, blah, blah, blah, right? I can’t help it… my heart beats for historical facts :)
Anyhoot, when it comes to your wedding day, monograms can be a great way to personalize and detail your ceremony and receptions. Because they can be produced as a design element, rather than just alphabetical letters, they are a timeless way for adding customized class. Think of them as the most elite form of combining your initials to your Louvre’s initials to make one, succinct symbol of your devotion for all to see…
Too deep?… I knew it. I always do that.
Okay, maybe monograms don’t need to be thought of that deeply, but for your wedding, they can be a useful tool to bring a sense of elegant uniformity. They can be done as subtle touches on your paper products, like stationery, favor packaging, ceremony programs, reception menus or place cards.
For a bolder look, buy or make a monogrammed aisle runner. Perhaps in lieu of a traditional cake topper, have one that combines you and your spouse’s initials. Orrrrr wrap your bouquet with a monogrammed handkerchief. It’s your wedding day… you can do whatever you want!
Bottom line, simply by taking your first name initial, his first name initial and plopping your new, shared last name initial in the middle, you can create an abundance of choices to add to your big day! And who can’t get behind that?
And if you’re looking to add your monogram to your big day, be sure to check out our extensive line of Monogrammed Wedding Accessories & Personalized Gifts!
June 2, 2010
Previous page
