Style Tips for Creating a Concept for your Wedding

Top stylist Paula Bevege of belle vie event design & planning offers some expert advice on creating a wedding concept.

Paula Bevege is the co-owner and creative director of belle vie event design & planning. She has styled countless events and weddings, including opening nights for the Royal New Zealand Ballet and many elegant nuptials.

She also styled my wedding! This is a photo from one of our beautifully designed tables.

Paula is a true expert in her field and has some sound tips to keep in mind when creating a feel for your wedding day.

*    Classic and simple will never date.
*    Start with your dress first, as this sets the tone for the whole wedding.
*    Remember, when trying on your dress, all the extras will make a big difference (hair, makeup, jewellery and flowers).
*    Design your wedding around your dress and create a concept board with images of all the things you love.
*    A concept board is easily created by cutting up your magazines or using any images of things you love. They may not directly relate to items for a wedding, but they can act as inspiration.
*    Once your style board is assembled, you will see a colour scheme and concept emerge.
*    Personalise your wedding by creating a monogram or logo. This could be as simple as your initials
and the date or an image of something special - jewellery, architecture, flowers etc.
*    When selecting a colour for your bridesmaids, make sure it is flattering and will suit each one of them. (NOTE: Your favourite colour may not be theirs.)
*    Colour can be added with flowers and accessories, so keep bridesmaids dresses simple.
*    Don't be afraid to experiment with colours or break tradition. Red and pink can be amazing together, black can by stylish, not morbid, and monochromatic can be stunning, not bland.
*    Your concept and colour scheme will be easier to create if your venue compliments your look, so keep this is mind when selecting a venue.
*    When you choose any supplier or item, go back to your style board and ask yourself, "does this person/item fit into my vision?"
*    Your colour scheme and style doesn't have to be the same at the ceremony and reception. It can be a version that compliments the other. In fact, too much of one colour can be overpowering. Balance is the key.
*    Your invitations set the tone of your wedding, so make sure your stationery is in keeping with your concept.
*    Make big statements! One fabulous vase of flowers on the table will have more impact than lots of little things.
*    Keep it simple. Less is always more.
*    When designing your tables, always keep your guests' comfort in mind. Can they see over the centrepieces?
*    Other table hazards are:
- Smell and scent. Herbs can taint your pallet. If you do want to do scented favours, soaps, bath oils etc, put them on a separate table. Don't use scented candles on your tables.
- Fire. Make sure tea lights are in glass votives and all candles are safe. Test their burn time beforehand.
- Anything sprinkled. Think glitter, sands, salt etc.