The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Colors & Themes
By Forever Sunshine Events
One of the first big choices couples face when planning their wedding is choosing a color palette and overall theme. It sets the mood, informs your design decisions, and helps your big day feel cohesive, intentional, and so you. As a wedding planner who adores dreamy details and starry vibes, I'm here to help you navigate the world of color and theme with confidence — and maybe even a little cosmic magic. 🌙💫
First, What’s the Difference Between a Theme and a Color Palette?
A wedding theme is the overall style or vibe of the wedding — think celestial romance, boho garden, vintage glam, modern minimalism, etc.
A color palette is the selection of hues that appear throughout your event — from flowers to attire to table settings and signage.
Some couples start with a theme and build their colors around it. Others fall in love with a color combo first and develop the theme later. There’s no wrong way to do it!
Popular Wedding Themes We’re Loving
Here are some timeless and trending themes to spark your inspiration:
Celestial & Ethereal (a Forever Sunshine Favorite)
Think: starlight, moon phases, dreamy twilight tones, and soft iridescent textures.
Color palette ideas: Deep navy, dusty lavender, silver, champagne, gold accents
Incorporate through:
Star- and moon-shaped décor (think table numbers or escort cards)
Celestial patterns on invitations or linens
Crystals, candlelight, and dreamy lighting for ambiance
Gowns with subtle shimmer or tulle overlays
Romantic Garden Party
Think: lush blooms, vintage charm, and fairy-tale softness.
Color palette ideas: Blush, sage, cream, mauve, dusty blue
Incorporate through:
Floral-forward décor with cascading centerpieces or floral arches
Vintage-inspired tableware and soft draping
Garden venue or greenhouse
Soft pastel attire and fresh floral accessories
Modern & Minimalist
Think: sleek lines, crisp neutrals, and intentional simplicity.
Color palette ideas: White, black, stone, soft beige, muted metallics
Incorporate through:
Architectural or modern venues (like art galleries)
Monochrome tablescapes and clean signage
Bold structural floral design or greenery-forward arrangements
Minimalist gowns or suits with clean silhouettes
Jewel-Toned Boho
Think: rich colors, eclectic textures, and a free-spirited vibe.
Color palette ideas: Emerald, plum, terracotta, amber, indigo
Incorporate through:
Mismatched vintage rugs, macrame details, and wood accents
Wildflower-style bouquets with bold blooms
Velvet table runners and colored glassware
Laid-back attire and ceremony seating with personality
Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Palette
Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s how to narrow it down:
Look to your venue. Does it have strong colors or a natural backdrop to build around?
Consider the season. Certain hues shine in different times of year (think rich colors for fall, pastels for spring).
Think about your wardrobe. What colors do you love wearing? What will flatter your skin tones?
Build with balance. Pair bold colors with neutrals or accent shades for contrast.
Mood matters. Soft tones = romantic. Bold tones = dramatic. Earth tones = grounded and organic.
How to Bring Your Theme + Colors to Life
Once you’ve chosen your theme and colors, it’s time to infuse them into your wedding design. Here’s how:
Décor
Use florals, signage, table linens, and candles in your palette
Add themed touches like celestial mirrors, antique lanterns, or modern arches
Flowers
Ask your florist to focus on seasonal blooms in your color range
Add texture through greenery, dried elements, or sparkle with painted florals or crystals
Attire
Mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses within your color family
Groomsmen ties or pocket squares in accent shades
Statement accessories like celestial hairpieces or velvet shoes in your colors
Final Thought: Your Wedding Should Feel Like You
Whether you lean into a dreamy starlit theme or a bold and vibrant boho day, your wedding design should reflect your love story. Don’t be afraid to blend ideas or create something entirely new. The best weddings are the ones that feel personal, thoughtful, and a little bit magical.
And if you need help bringing your vision to life — from color palettes to perfect vendor matches — I’d be honored to help.
🌙✨
With love,
Raelynn
Owner + Lead Planner, Forever Sunshine Events
