How to Choose Your Wedding Colors

One of the first questions celebrity wedding planner David Tutera asks his future brides? “What’s your color scheme?” 

Predictable, perhaps, but Tutera firmly believes that color is an extension of oneself—and, as a bride, will affect all of the choices you make during the planning process. Check out the planner’s top two rules for all things color.

Rule 1: Think About the Color’s Meaning

• When you think of a certain shade, what does it mean to you? Tutera loves yellow for its’ happy and cheerful nature (it reminds him of the sun). Red can signify romance and passion, while blue can set a serene scene. Think of a few of your favorite colors—and why you love ‘em so much.
   
• Before making any decisions, sit down with your fiancée to consider not only your favorite shades, but your wedding season and style. For example, don’t choose an all-pink scheme if you’re having an outdoor garden affair in the fall (unless you really, really love it).
   
• Go ahead and play with color combinations. Tutera suggests channeling your inner Jackson Pollack by purchasing inexpensive paints, brushes and paper on which to splatter myriad colors and combos. Or, go by some paint chips (check out pantone.com)—you may just end up being surprised at what you like?

Rule 2: Consider Season and Style

Tutera strongly suggests to avoid anything thematic by moving away from predictable, seasonal color patterns, such as brown and orange for fall. Also, keep in mind the type of affair you’re having—candy-colored hues may be a bit juvenile for a white-tie affair. Check out some of Tutera’s top color recommendations:

• Winter: All white is gorgeous, but add a splash of lavender for warmth. For a more formal affair, try a metallic, like pewter, silver, copper bronze or gold, for depth and richness.
   
• Spring: Spring colors are usually all about pastels, but change it up a bit by adding deep splashes of plum or coral. For an evening affair, you may want to use the pastels as accents and the deeper tones as your starting points.
   
• Summer: Go for bold yellows, purples, red and blues. Or select different shades of a color: Coral, salmon and a deep burnt orange make for a stunning (and slightly surprising) combination.
   
• Fall: Forget the obvious and go for a muted, yet totally elegant scheme by considering shades like taupe or burgundy to be paired with a hint of lavender. If you happen to be a fashionista, take inspiration from the runways—fall is the most stylish time of year!

BOTTOM LINE: Color is fabulous, but don’t overdo it! For an elegant, stylish look, choose no more than three or four hues.