In an otherwise challenging time, Netflix’s period drama Bridgerton brought color, fanfare, and gossip to screens in late 2020. With a second season on the cusp of its premiere (March 25th for those wondering!), we know you are dying to see more Regency-inspired weddings with all the pomp and circumstance of the early 1800s.
So if the steamy drama has you dreaming up ways to transform your wedding into a celebration fit for high society, here are a few suggestions for your Bridgerton-inspired nuptials.
Pick the right colors.
If there’s one thing to note about Bridgerton, it’s the intentional use of bright and soft colors alike. From Daphne’s iconic dusty blue gown to Penelope’s vibrant yellow frock, the show’s colors were an integral part of its production — and, thus, your wedding should also prioritize a fitting color palette.
“The most literal color palette you could do is a white, green, and blue one that directly mimics the TV show’s ball scene,” remarks Janice Carnevale of Bellwether Events. “I would also encourage an all pastel or just a sherbert color palette. I think for your chosen metallic, gold, rose gold, or copper would be more signaling of the era than silver, but mixed metals are also an option.”
Fashion is key.
An important element to creating a regency-styled affair is fashion. Think empire waists and poofy sleeves for gowns and lavish suits with brocade silks and tails. Don’t be afraid to think outside the classic black and white box and have fun with color. Encourage guests to join as well with playful attire inspired by the era.
Lean into dessert-heavy displays.
A lavish display of desserts isn’t just for satisfying your sweet tooth — they’re just as important for aesthetics as they are delicious! Take a peek at the background in any party scene and you’ll see a table overflowing with cakes, cookies, and other treats. A must-pair with tea and coffee service at any Bridgerton-inspired wedding!
Carnevale recommends presenting sweets as they did in the Regency period, saying: “I do love an elegant and luxurious dessert spread. A macaron tower and a croquembouche are just the beginning, but no matter what you serve, it must look abundant, impeccable, and fit for a queen.”
Play up the dancing.
While the soundtrack may have opted for orchestral covers of today’s radio hits, Bridgerton’s dancing scenes brought all the splendor of an early 1800s ballroom in England. So don’t skimp on the dancing for your big day!
“Select classical music from the Regency era, with costumed musicians if possible,” suggests The Wilburton Inn’s Tajlei Levis. “Find a local dance instructor who can teach your guests the steps to the Regency dances. Dancing transforms your event from a party to a ball.”
Have fun with stationery.
Regency-inspired weddings should forego modern elements in favor of more traditional details, replacing e-vites with stationery suites as Levis encourages: “Set the tone with vintage style invitations, and inspired details, like a personalized Lady Whistledown letter with hints about your guests.”
Carnevale elaborates, adding: “Consider what the stationery of the era looked like: beautiful calligraphy on handmade paper with wax seals. You can also send handwritten invitations. I think at a minimum you should calligraph your envelopes, and consider using an inner envelope – often considered an outdated idea. I would also recommend using a collection of vintage stamps for postage.”
Whether you’re seeking a ballroom celebration bursting with Bridgerton-inspired details or you simply want to include a few details as a nod to the Regency era, these expert tips will have your wedding looking and feeling like you stepped right into the ton.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
