How Do I Choose My Colours?
Hi. I'm just in the early stages of planning my wedding, but I am really stuck on choosing the colours. My fiance really wants a dark, royal blue, which I really like, but I am not sure what to match with it. We are thinking of getting married in spring or summer. Any ideas?
Lisa , Dunedin
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Lisa Robertson answers...
Talented wedding planner and event stylist Lisa Robertson addresses the all important matter of colour.
Searching for the perfect colour combination for your wedding can be a challenge. This is one of the most important steps of planning. Be sure to pick colours that are right for you and that inspire the creative ideas that you will carry throughout your day.
The possibilities are infinite when it comes to combining colours; work with 2-3 as a maximum, as any more can start to look cluttered. You can find inspiration in so many places. Certainly check out websites and magazines, as these resources offer endless combinations. Be open-minded, as pictures of wedding receptions and bridal parties may encourage a look you had not previously considered.
With regards to your specific question about dark, royal blue: I would match this with white/ivory, silver or a pale blue. Pale blue hydrangeas, if in season, are stunning and would compliment this colour.
Here are some other ideas to consider:
Seasons - Be inspired by the colours of the season. Given that you will either have a spring or summer wedding, I would work with fresh and contemporary colours. Here are some ideas that compliment the various seasons. I've noted which colours work best to compliment the seasons' hues in brackets, with the bolded colour my recommendation for royal blue.
Spring - Lavender, Pale pink, (Pastel green), (Pale blue)
Summer - Purple, Pink, Turquoise, Aqua, (Hot pink), Lime, (Yellow), (Pale blue)
Autumn - (Red), (Copper), Olive, Eggplant, Chocolate, Orange, (White/Ivory)
Winter - Red, (Merlot), Green, (Silver), Blue, (Chocolate)
Theme - Work out the colours in conjunction with your theme and the feel of your day. Themes include: Formal, Romantic, Vintage, Classic, Contemporary, Casual, Sophisticated or Glamorous. Each of these styles will have colour associations. Start with one core colour and then add to it until you come up with a combination that makes you happy.
Venue / Environment - Spend some time at your venue to get ideas from the surrounding environment. Whether it's a garden, beach, vineyard, church, hotel or your own home, seek inspiration from the colours nature provides. To give you a bit of an idea, for a beach or garden theme - try white or ivory with pale blue, turquoise, lime, lavender, beige, mocha or coral.
Favourite Colours - Why not just go with your favourite colour? This is guaranteed to give you all the inspiration you need for your big day.
Personality - Your personality should show through your colour and theme. If you are fun and energetic, you may consider hot pink, whereas if you are looking for a more contemporary feel, try silver, green or blue. Colours can be reflective of moods, so remember to also consider this when putting your colours together.
No black! Step out, and dare to be different - try coppers, fresh greens, yellows or luscious reds. Have fun and explore colour! Best of luck.
