Choosing your wedding colors is one of those big “it’s actually happening” moments in the planning process, but picking the palette is just the beginning. The real magic happens when those colors show up intentionally throughout your day, tying everything together in a way that feels stylish and personal.
Not sure where to start? Whether you’re going bold with statement hues or keeping things soft and subtle, we’re sharing creative ways to bring your color palette to life. Here’s how you can make your vision feel cohesive, curated, and unforgettable.
Think about your specific vibe
Your wedding should feel like you. So, before you get lost in trends and Pinterest boards, take a moment to consider your specific vibe.
“Colors create moods and bring out emotions,” reminds Penny Haas, Owner of Penny Haas, LLC. “Keep in mind these colors and feelings when thinking of your wedding. The pinks, reds, yellows, and oranges are warm and energetic. The blues, purples, and greens tend to be light, airy, and calming. Thinking of the overall feel will help guide you in color trends that fit your venue and overall look.”
Your color palette should speak to your personal style and help set the tone for your entire celebration.
Natalia Zuk, Owner of Lilac Studios, agrees, stating, “Some colors naturally create certain vibes. Consider soft neutrals and pastels if you want an elegant, romantic, and timeless atmosphere. For a cozy, organic, and inviting mood, think earthy tones and warm rusts. It is the best choice if you are into fashion, a modern and sophisticated look, and black and white. You can play with bright, vibrant hues for a playful, energetic, and joyful mood.”
From start to finish, this day is about your love story—so make it feel true to who you are!
Switch up your tablescapes
Your reception tables are the perfect place to get creative with your color palette. Rather than sticking to one uniform look, consider mixing things up for a more dynamic design.
Emily Reno, Owner of Elopement Las Vegas, suggests, “A fun way to bring bold colors into the reception is through alternating napkin colors at each place setting and incorporating a variety of colorful floral arrangements. Florists love the opportunity to mix different blooms and foliage, allowing for more creative and visually striking designs.”
This layered approach makes the tables feel more curated and gives your vendors room to play with texture, tone, and movement.
Consider outfit changes
Who says you have to stick to just one outfit on your big day? In 2025, couples are embracing wardrobe versatility.
“Don’t forget that a change of outfit between ceremony, cocktail hour, or dinner can play into your theme as well, especially for your first dance and wedding cake-cutting photos,” reminds Vijay Goel, Co-Owner of 440 Elm by Bite Catering. “We had a groom change from a black jacket to a white jacket, and it instantly led to a more formal/elegant tone for all of their photos.”
The best part? Different outfits allow you to showcase different aspects of your personality and coordinate with your evolving color palette throughout the day.
Play around with patterns
Why stop at colors when you can add a little extra flair with patterns? These days, patterns are popping up everywhere.
“Floral patterns, intricate textures, and layered fabrics are being woven into color palettes, adding depth and visual interest,” notes Emily Reno, Owner of Elopement Las Vegas. “I predict that for the rest of 2025, we’ll continue to see couples experiment with vibrant color combinations and playful textures, making weddings feel even more expressive and unique.”
Bridesmaid dresses, table linens, custom stationery—there are plenty of places you can add depth to your aesthetic. Plus, patterns are a fun way to showcase your unique style and make your day feel even more personal.
Think about your desserts
Desserts aren’t just delicious—they’re also a creative way to tie in your colors without going overboard. If you love a bold hue but don’t want it front and center, sweets are a subtle (and fun) way to bring it in.
Elena Markwood, Owner and Lead Planner at Adoration Weddings & Events, suggests, “For a more subtle pop of a bold color, bring it in on your cake or desserts. Decorative vintage-style cakes are very popular right now, and frosting them in a pretty pink and adding some red piping or Maraschino cherries is a great way to incorporate some of the colors you love without committing to seeing it all throughout your event.”
From colorful macaron towers to bold cake accents, your dessert table offers plenty of room to play. And those little details pop beautifully in photos!
Don’t forget about your paper goods
It’s easy to get caught up in the big, eye-catching details, but don’t overlook your paper goods. Invitations, place cards, programs, and menus are all part of your wedding’s setup.
Loni Peterson, MLS of LP Creative Events, shares, “Bringing these new colors into a wedding design through signage and paper goods is a great way to sprinkle in a trend without it being too much!”
Choosing colors and patterns that match your theme can create a seamless experience for your guests from the moment they receive their save-the-date to their last sip of champagne. Bonus: Beautiful stationery makes for wonderful keepsakes.
Keep your photographer in the loop
No matter what your vision looks like, make sure your photographer is right there with you. After all, you want those dreamy shots to live up to the gorgeous reality you’ve created!
“If you’re choosing a bold color trend for your day, let your photographer know ahead of time so they can coordinate any other materials, such as flatlay backdrops,” advises Cayla Cummings, Owner of Carhart Photography.
Before the big day, share your color palette, discuss your favorite spots at the venue, and let them in on any outfit changes you have planned. Your photographer’s insight can help you maximize those magical moments and turn them into keepsakes you’ll treasure forever.
Remember: it’s your moment
As you start weaving your colors into different parts of your wedding day, remember: there’s no rulebook you have to follow. The most impactful designs are the ones you love the most.
“Choose the colors that are right for you,” suggests Craig Peterman, Owner of Craig Peterman Photography & Videography. “Don’t give in to the pressure to follow trends and do what feels beautiful to you!”
The beauty of using color intentionally is that it allows you to add personality in big and small ways—from bold ceremony backdrops to subtle accent details in your attire, paper goods, or desserts.
Michelle Jackson, Owner and Photographer of Michelle Jackson Studio, adds, “Keep it real, incorporate color from what’s truly authentic to you.”
The way you use color should support the overall feeling you want for your wedding (not just what looks good in a styled shoot). Choose what you love, and let everything else fall into place!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
