Completing Your Black and White Wedding Theme
One of the year’s top wedding trends is an elegant black and white theme. The combination of black and white creates a classic look that’s a beautiful choice for either an indoor or outdoor setting. However, once your theme is chosen, the inevitable question surfaces. “How do I finish the theme?” You can’t have black flowers, and it’s difficult to find matching pure white flowers and accessories. Do you add one accent color or several? And does the elegant black and white look mean I have to make my wedding an ultra formal affair?
The simple answer to all of these questions is this — since it’s your wedding it’s your choice. These days, anything goes and it’s appropriate to complete the look with a variety of options. In fact, you’ll find that your black and white theme gives you so many choices and ways to make the theme truly your own. Here are a few of our top ideas for completing your black and white wedding theme.
Colors
The best way to choose your accent color (or colors) is to take black and white swatches or sample pieces, such as napkins, and lay them next to several colors to see what appeals to you. A few popular choices are pink, lavender, ivory, silver, periwinkle blue and ruby red.
You may also want to choose colors depending on your ceremony’s time of year, such as pastels for spring, neons for summer, jewel tones for fall or winter whites and blues. Flowers that are in season can also play a part in your decision. A bright burst of color in bouquets and centerpieces can be just the right inspiration for your palette.
Décor
With so many options for decorations, you can add black and white accents to just about any part of your big day. From fluffy white bows and glittery black feathers to iridescent white stars and black faux gems, the choices are limitless. If you’ve chosen an accent color, consider incorporating it with ribbon tied to your favors, programs, place cards or centerpieces. Remember to speak to your caterer to determine color options for coordinating table linens, too.
Try incorporating your black and white theme through these unique decorating ideas:
- Aisle runner
- Personalized banner
- Dance floor cling
- Chair bows
- Candy buffet
- Luminary bags
- Paper accent flowers
- Hanging lanterns with lights
Music
If you’re going for a sophisticated black and white theme, consider replacing the usual DJ with a more classic option. A string quartet, jazz trio or pianist is a great choice to set the mood. You can also play pre-recorded big band music, traditional waltzes or standards from the ‘30s and ‘40s. Any selections that bring to mind an image of dapper gentlemen in black ties will create just the right sound.
Saying “Thank You”
Carry the black and white theme into your post-wedding fun, too. Coordinating paper, ribbon and seals with your monogram are an elegant choice for thank you cards. Why not include a black and white photo of the newlyweds on their honeymoon? Your guests will love the personal touch as they remember the fun of your big day.
Ready to get your plans underway? Be creative and have fun making your special day unique and memorable in black and white style.
Surprise guests with something unique after dinner. Read our Tips for Creating the Perfect Candy Buffet for a fun way to sweeten your reception!
