No matter what theme you choose, when it comes to your wedding day, attention to detail is key. Whether you plan on styling your venue with extensive décor and table arrangements, or with simple yet stylish touches, your day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple.
Director of Romance at Washingborough Hall, Amy Thorne, takes us through her top tips for a variety of wedding themes.
Simplicity
If you really want to keep your wedding a simple affair, the ‘less is more’ trend can look stunning. From classically elegant wedding dresses to choosing a limited colour palette, this no-fuss style can result in a clean, crisp finish that works particularly well for winter woodland inspired affairs or fresh spring soirees. It is essential to find a venue to match your style and compliment your colour scheme to nail this look.
Traditional
If you’re looking to go along a traditional wedding theme, stick to classical elegance with a touch of old world charm. Liaise with your photographer about getting group shots with both sides of the family as well as your bridesmaids and ushers. Use old-fashioned etiquette as the basis of your wedding planning. Arrange your seating plan with a top table, rather than a communal plan which better suits casual style weddings. A receiving line is another detail which will add a sense of tradition to your day. If you opt to include one, allow at least ten to 15 minutes out of your daytime schedule. And of course, don’t forget your something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue! These can make a beautifully poignant flat-lay shot for your wedding album which will be treasured forever.
Glamorous
For those couples looking for something a bit more modern, it’s all about making an impact. Making an impression and wowing your guests will your number one priority. Lighting is a great place to start and this will set the tone of your evening appropriately. Fairy lights add sparkle and glitz, while adding mirrors and metallics will add to your plush upmarket interiors.
You could also consider hiring a hairdresser or MUA that offers an evening package. For brides, changing your look from day to night is becoming much more popular, choose an up-do and radiant make-up for the daytime celebrations, then let your hair down for the evening reception with spectacular waves and a darker lipstick tone. Asking your artist to provide a touch-up service in the bathrooms will go down a real treat with the ladies!
Rustic
No matter what time of year you choose to marry, flowers will play a huge part of your day. Make the most of your season and what it has to offer by utilizing natural materials such as burlap, raffia and twine. Beautiful blooms look great used around your table plan, as centre pieces trailing down table runners and as napkin decorations. For a show-stopping look, a hanging floral canopy looks breath-taking, especially in a marquee venue. Or flowers wrapped around pillars (at the entrance to your venue) will add an element of whimsical romance. These will double-up as a wise investment and can be used as a backdrop to some of your outdoor wedding photographs.
Shabby Chic
A style which has become hugely popular in recent years is shabby chic. A lot more laid back and relaxed with a vintage twist, this theme is perfect for those with a creative flair. DIY signage is a must including chalkboards, wooden signs or slate with handwritten calligraphy quotes. Choose long tables for your wedding breakfast to create a low-key, enjoyable family dining stmosphere. To top off the day, organise garden games to keep your guests entertained and break the rules when it comes to your wedding cake – pork pie and cheese with seasonal fruits is a stunning option and perfectly fitting for your rustic theme. Alternatively, a candy cart with an array of pastel coloured goodies displayed in beautiful jars on lace cloths will certainly be adored by your guests.
-By Amy Thorne
For more details on weddings at Washingborough Hall, call Amy or Lucy on 01522 790340 or email weddings@washingboroughhall.com
Image Credits: Simplicity – Kate Holstein Photography; Traditional – Catherine Meade Photography; Glamorous – Tamiz Photography; Rustic – via Deer Pearl Flowers; Table plan – via Portugal White Weddings; Armchair photo booth – Pinterest.
