Pick Your Palette
In this issue, we've done something a little different. Yes, we are looking at color palettes - as they play out in flowers, linens, cakes, and other decor. But in addition to sharing great combinations of colors, we're pairing each color theme with a specific material that adds a complementary element - taking the combination to a whole new level with an intriguing texture or a beguiling fragrance, or evoking the quintessential tastes of the season. We hope you'll enjoy this exploration of color and the senses, and that you'll be inspired to find the colors and the all-important complements that make your wedding palette something truly spectacular.
Berries & Blooms
For some of us, the essence of summer is found in the overflowing cartons of sweet blueberries we rush to harvest at the season's finale. The colors of the blueberry bush - with ripening berries ranging from green to purple to deep indigo - inspire this palette. White, cream, and buttery yellow complete the summery theme, providing a sunny foil against which the bold blues seem that much more vibrant.
Wildflowers & Wood
Summer's beguiling array of wildflowers and local farm-fresh blooms inspire this "bounty of the land" theme. Pink, purple, and white set the tone, with flashes of yellow and red adding bright accents. For a creative, "country" presentation, pair flowers with simple glass bottles and jars, weathered wood containers, tree bark, moss, and dried grapevine.
Succulents, Copper & Stone
Often found thriving in the nooks and crannies of stone walls in these parts, the hardy succulents known as hen-and-chicks inspired this theme. With colors ranging from sage green to lime, often with reddish accents, this texturally compelling plant pairs up nicely with gleaming copper, resulting in a look that feels modern with distinct notes of an Asian aesthetic.
Lemons & Leaves
For their sculptural elegance and their whimsical evocation of childhood summers and lemonade stands, lemons are a wonderful addition to the season's wedding decor. Following the fruit back to its source in the lemon groves yields the elements - shapely leaves and fragrant white blossoms - to complete this clean, refreshing theme.
Palette Picking Tips
Still find color confusing? These simple suggestions will give you the confidence to move boldly beyond black and white. A world of color awaits!
*Start by playing with colors, without any boundaries. "It's a lot of fun to think outside of the box," says Kris Ann Blanchette of Fleurtacious Designs, and daring to unite bold colors may surprise the eye and delight you with an unexpected contrast.
*Once you've figured out some color preferences, look at flower varieties that come in those colors. Decide if you have a preference for local or seasonal flowers, and narrow your ideas from there.
*Consider the natural palette that will surround the reception area, suggests Maggie Oyen of Stems Inc. "Keeping a monochromatic theme - all green in summer months, all yellow in autumn, all white in winter - will give you loads of visual impact and tie together indoor and outdoor spaces."
*If you're using a tent, Sara Gast of Sara Gast Floral Designs recommends brighter colors to add warmth and interest to the interior.
*Think about colors that will soothe guests and complement the weather, says Susan Cady of Finishing Touches. "Consider using lighter colors when the weather feels hot; the cooler colors can create a refreshing feeling."
*Remember, bridesmaids' dresses don't need to coordinate with decor exactly. "If your bridesmaids' dresses are pink, try pairing with jazzy citrus colors - key lime, dark purple, or bright orange, says David Siders from Experience and Creative Design. "Mix it up and don't feel the need to match everything."
