Choosing a Theme

Ok, since I've already started doing this might as well continue, right? So here's the second part of the tips and suggestion thing for those who are planning a wedding:

It is always easier to organize a wedding if you already have a picture of what you would like it to be in your mind. I mean when someone asks you, "If you were to choose how your wedding would look like, what would it be?" and you all of a sudden a vision of flowing imaculately white chiffon and bridal satin, delicate lavander flowers, monogrammed table napkins, sterling silver utensils, crystal glasses and tiffany chairs... most probably you want a traditional white wedding with a formal reception. There is also the question on, "How would you want your wedding to be remembered by others?" If you prefer a more laid back, afternoon, garden wedding and reception, chances are your guests would be leaving thinking "what a nice and happy wedding that was" but if you opt for an evening wedding with a dinner-dance reception, there is a high probability that your guests will leave thinking "such a hip and enjoyable wedding"... well that is if the program that you set would get executed nicely. Either way, always consider your preference first before what other people would think. Like I said before, it is YOUR Wedding... Let them do it their way when they're the ones to get married. Your day, your choice! If a theme is most appealing to you, don't let other people convince you otherwise. Unless it's your husband to be, of course! Remember, a wedding is the union of two people, so, your fiance should definitely have a say in it.

On my day, I was fortunate enough to have a husband who let me have a freehand... all he said was I want green to be part of the color motiff, and so I had to work my way with that but the overall theme of my day was "Butterfly Wedding". From the beadwork of my gown to the details on the bridesmaid shoes and even the candles for the Unity Candle ceremony had butterflies on them. When I walked down the isle, there were butterflies that were released, my jewelry were butterfly shaped, my ring and coin pillow had butterflies perched on them and yes, my giveaways too! I think you get my drift... That's me, how about you? What would you like to be the theme of your wedding? There are lots to choose from, or you can even make one up yourself. There really is no strict rule about it, just go with what's appealing to you. Here are a few ideas on how you could choose the theme for your wedding:

1. The wedding and reception venue. If for example you are opting for a beach wedding you could probably have a sun and sand-themed wedding where you could have a cake that looks like a sand castle and giveaways of miniature slippers; mock starfish or even small shells with personalized etchings on them in box with sand in it. You could also have a casual dinner party and a bonfire if you want it at sunset. Garden themed weddings on the other hand could range from casual to formal affair, depending on the time of day.

2. The cake. Some couples choose a cake first and then let the other wedding plans revolve around the color, texture and kind of cake they have chosen.

3. Your song. If for example the song you chose to be the theme of your wedding is "Angel in Disguise" you could opt for angels all around. You know, have a cake designed with angels on them, giveaways and even decorations. Or if the song you chose is "Autumn Leaves" then you could have autumn colors and stuff.

4. The Colors. Most weddings in the Philippine setting revolve around this aspect... what is your color motiff? Before there is one color you have to choose and stick to it but now, the more popular choice is not just one but color combinations that either complement or contrast one another that makes your wedding be distinguished from others. Some even use a whole palette of colors, and that's ok... as long as your comfortable with it, go with what you like!

5. Season. This I mentioned last because, actually, there are only two seasons here in the Philippines... The wet and the dry. Unlike in other places in the world where there's winter, spring, summer or fall. But I did attend a wedding last year, that had a winter theme, so... to each his own! Also, seasons could also be further classified into Christmas, Easter, Flowers and so on...

So there! Let the choosing begin!