How to Choose Your Wedding Theme or Colors

You’ve been waiting for your special day for a long time now, planning every little feature from the shoes to the color and theme of your wedding. With infinite options from which to choose, you can explore the idea of a barefoot beach ceremony, an English romance theme, or maybe even a winter wonderland theme. With so many options, how do you know which is right for your wedding?

Use Your Favorite Color: You should always start with what you love. For example, if you’ve always loved Barbie pink then start there. You can incorporate different hues into the decorations to enhance the theme. Head over to theperfectpallet.com for help selecting complementary colors. 

Consider the Setting: However, when it comes to the setting, you might want to take the décor of the location into consideration before settling on a permanent color or theme. Venues with bold patterned carpet or wallpaper may clash with that pink you originally had your heart set on. If this is the case, you may need to choose a different theme or explore other venue or color options. Decide which you can’t live without and move from there. 

Consult the Season:  Now this doesn’t mean that if you are getting married in October that you should only stick to rich, dark colors or neutrals BUT you should take into consideration the foliage that is available during that time of year. You want to compliment the season, not clash.

The Bridal Party: Some brides envision their bridesmaids matching head to toe in one bold color, which is perfectly fine as long as it is flattering on everyone. Style variations of the same color might even look better than you first imagined and will keep some self-conscious bridesmaids happy – which is always a win-win. Also, don’t forget the groomsmen. Keep the theme flowing, even with the gentlemen! Tie colored accents into buttonholes and cummerbunds.

Preparing For Wedding Photos

While it's true that the talent of the photographer determines the result of your wedding photos, a few other factors play into how your pictures turn out. There is no substitute for adequate preparation, a plan, and a back-up plan. Life is unpredictable, so literally "anything" can happen to your wedding photos; a back-up plan could save the day.

Prior to starting the search for a specific photographer, you want to determine your style as individuals, and align them with your style as a couple. If you plan to have eclectic or modern images and decor, you don't want to find out when it's too late that your photographer specializes in traditional photos. Similarly, find out how you feel about candid and posed photography before deciding on wedding shots and album-worthy photos.

Once you choose your photographer, remember to to ask the right questions. Show him or her your plan, and see if it works in synergy with his or her shooting style. Browse through an online portfolio, and use specific examples to show the photographer exactly what you do and don't like it. If the photographer doesn't seem to understand your vision, interview another potential professional. An ideal wedding photographer is highly experienced, versatile, and understanding about your requests.

Create a master schedule; an agenda will help keep things on track and in order. Set a specific date you'd like to have your photos, or at least a date by which you receive an ETA. Come up with a list of shots you MUST have, and shots you'd like to have. Prioritize the ones you can't live without, but also understand there isn't enough time for everything. Don't wait until the last minute to weed out the shots you don't need. 

Chances are, your wedding photographer has shot in your wedding venue before. Whatever you decide, make sure it works with the rest of your settings. Consult with your professional photographer to determine the lighting and mood of a room, and even look at the portfolio to get an idea of what you'll receive.