Your wedding colour scheme underpins the entire aesthetic of your big day. It sets the mood, enhances the venue, and ties all the little details together, from the from the flowers and bridesmaids’ dresses to the table settings and invitations. Choosing the perfect palette can be a daunting task, but it’s also one of the most fun and creative parts of wedding planning.
We know it can feel a bit overwhelming with so many gorgeous options out there, but don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together a list of 15 stunning wedding colour schemes to spark your creativity and help you find the perfect palette for your dream wedding.
So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine!), get comfy, and let’s jump into 15 fun wedding colour scheme ideas. You’re sure to find something on this list that tickles your fancy.
What is a wedding colour scheme?
A wedding colour scheme is a set of colours that guides the decor and aesthetics of your big day. Your colour scheme is the palette that ties together everything from the flowers and bridesmaids’ dresses to the table settings and invitations.
Although it may seem like a small detail, the colour scheme touches every part of your decor and can have a big impact on the overall vibe and feel of your big day. As a result, it’s important you think about it carefully.
For example, a classic and elegant wedding won’t feel as classic and elegant with a neon green and hot pink colour scheme. Instead, you might choose timeless colours like ivory, gold, and soft blush to evoke that elegant, sophisticated atmosphere. On the other hand, if you’re dreaming of a fun and vibrant celebration, those bold neon hues might be just perfect!
A colour scheme can just be one colour, for example, a really specific shade of pink or blue you want to incorporate, or can be a range of complementary colours that work together to create a cohesive and beautiful look. It could be a combination like navy blue, blush, and gold for a romantic and timeless feel, or a mix of emerald green, burgundy, and ivory for a rich, autumnal vibe.
When deciding on your colour scheme, think about the season, the venue, and your personal preferences. Are you having a summer beach wedding? Soft blues and sandy neutrals might be perfect. Planning a winter wonderland? Crisp whites, jewel tones, or navy blues with silver accents are perfect for creating an enchantingly frosty, magical vibe.
Do I need a wedding colour scheme?
You of course don’t absolutely need a wedding colour scheme. After all, it is your day, and you can style your wedding whichever way you want. That said, picking our a wedding colour or two is highly recommended. Although it may feel like another decision you need to make, having a wedding colour scheme that you can describe to venues and vendors will streamline your conversations and give them a better idea of the vibe you’re trying to create. Florists will work almost exclusively off your colour scheme, as will bridal boutiques, wedding decorators, cake designers, and more. That’s why it’s best to make this decision early.
What are the most popular wedding colours?
According to Bridebook’s 2024 Engagement Report, based on feedback from over 3,500 engaged couples, sage green is the colour of the year. Nearly 31% of brides are incorporating green into their colour schemes, with 11% specifically choosing sage. Blues and neutrals are tied for the second most popular colours at 19% each, while pinks and blush tones are a close third at 16%.
Warm, earthy tones like orange and deep reds are also making waves as popular accent colours, perfect for the natural, rustic trend that’s all the rage this year. This combo creates a beautiful and cosy atmosphere, ideal for both indoor and outdoor weddings.
Hoping to achieve a stylish and on-trend wedding? Try incorporating these fashionable colours for a beautiful, picture-perfect day. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for something completely unique and off the beaten path! Remember, fashion and trends come and go, so the most important thing is that you pick the colours you genuinely like and that make you happy.
To learn more about key 2024 wedding trends, check out our dedicated article.
15 wedding colour schemes to inspire you
Check out these 15 beautiful wedding colour schemes to help inspire your big day, from the classic and conventional to the brave and bold.
1) Sage green and white
Let’s start with this gorgeous on-trend colour scheme, shall we? There’s a reason this stunning but understated colour combo is so popular right now — it’s timeless, elegant, and really aesthetic. If you’re going for clean, crisp, and classic, this is the colour scheme for you.
2) All white everything
The benefit of using all one colour as a wedding colour scheme is that there’s no way your decor, dresses, flowers, or cake will clash. If you love the clean, pure look of white decor, consider using it throughout your wedding. From white roses and lilies to crisp white table linens and an elegant white cake, this monochromatic scheme is perfect for a sophisticated and timeless celebration.
Pro tip: Although a monochromatic look can be beautiful and classy, if you’re a bride favour the traditional route, we recommend dressing the maid of honour, bridesmaids groom, and groomsmen in an off-white, ivory, or cream. This is your big day, after all, and traditionally the bride is the only one dressed in white. Equally, if you’re not one to follow tradition, and this isn’t important to you, free to dress everyone in white for a unified and striking look!
3) Classy champagne
Mixing white, champagne, and a little bit of gold is another classy and understated colour combination. It’s a great option for all seasons, but looks especially striking in winter for a neutral but warm look. Picture champagne-coloured bridesmaid dresses, white roses with gold accents, and elegant gold table settings — pure sophistication.
4) Beautiful blush
Pink is a classic choice for a wedding colour scheme. It’s pretty and romantic, can be bright or understated depending on your preference and your vibe, and looks great in all seasons. With all this in mind, it’s no wonder 16% of UK brides are choosing pink and blush tones for their weddings.
The beauty of pink is that it’s so versatile. You could go for a striking monochromatic look or mix it with other colours for a custom colour palette. For a soft, romantic vibe, blend blush with soft greys or sage green. For a more playful, vibrant look, consider pairing it with coral, orange, or sunset yellow. Your options really are endless with this beautiful tone!
5) Black tie
You can’t go wrong with a classic black and white colour palette. If it’s not white, it’s black, and vice versa. This combination is perfect for a formal, elegant wedding, with a specific wedding dress code. Picture black tuxedos, white dresses, black and white table settings, and maybe even a black and white dance floor. It’s timeless, sophisticated, and always in style.
6) Rustic earth tones
Rustic vibes are one of the biggest trends in 2024 weddings, so if you’re trying to achieve a cosy, down-to-earth atmosphere, consider combining rustic tones like terracotta, olive green, and cream. This palette is perfect for an intimate, nature-inspired wedding. Think terracotta pots filled with olive branches, cream-coloured linens, and wood accents for that charming, rustic feel.
7) Shades of sunset
Pinks, apricots, oranges, and sunset yellows are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a beautiful sunset. This vibrant palette is ideal for an outdoor summer wedding or any weddings where the flowers are the focal point, or for a relaxed destination wedding.
Pro tip: Scatter a few lavenders, baby blues, or even deep purples to add depth and contrast to your sunset-inspired colour scheme. This will create a bright and dynamic look to your colour scheme and make your wedding photos pop.
8) Complementary colours
Remember the colour wheel from school? It can actually come in handy when planning your wedding colour scheme! Complementary colours are the colours which are directly opposite one another on the colour wheel. According to colour theory, these pairs create a striking and balanced look when used together.
Now, we are by no mean recommending that you pick bright red and neon green as your wedding colours (unless you really like them!). Instead, think turquoise and coral (blue and orange), lavender and gold (yellow and purple), or blush and sage (red and green) for a pretty, composed, and balanced look.
9) Coastal charm
Whether your ceremony is on the beach, you love the subtle look of coastal colours, or the beach plays a significant part in your relationship, a coastal-inspired colour palette could be perfect for your wedding. Think soft blues, sandy beiges, and seafoam greens. These colours evoke the serene and relaxing vibes of the seaside, making your wedding feel like a beautiful day at the beach. Think driftwood centrepieces, seashell place names, floaty fabrics, and low-key vibes.
10) Secret garden
If you want your wedding to resemble an enchanting, secret garden, try using colours like plum, deep green, midnight blue, rich burgundy, and sparkling silver accents. Add to the vibe with fairy lights, lots of greenery, and whimsical decor to really lean into the magical, mystical vibe of a secret garden wedding.
11) Midnight beauty
Similar to a secret garden, midnight beauty embraces the deep, enchanting hues of the night. Think navy blue, black, rich purples, and sparkling silver. This palette is perfect for an evening or twilight wedding, creating a dramatic and elegant atmosphere. Think fairy lights, star-themed decor, and candlelit tables which will make your celebration feel like a night under the stars.
12) Enchanted forest
If you’re trying to recreate the feel of an enchanted forest in your wedding reception, try using colours like emerald green, moss, and brown with hints of gold. This rich, earthy palette creates a whimsical and magical atmosphere, perfect for a fairytale, nature-inspired wedding.
13) Modern minimalist
Choosing colour schemes like white and grey, white and nude, or white and dusty blue are excellent choices for a sleek, contemporary feel to your wedding aesthetic. This modern minimalist palette is perfect for couples who appreciate clean lines and understated elegance. Picture simple yet stunning decor, elegant table settings, and a super chic, sophisticated ambiance.
14) Tropical twist
If you prefer the look of big, bright and bold colours, then consider using this tropical colour scheme. Perfect for summer or outdoor weddings, the combination of sunny yellow, peach, sunset orange, and a hint of lush green will create a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere. Incorporate big bright flowers like sunflowers or large calla lilies, striking leafy stems like bird of paradise or banana leaves, and colourful feathers for a truly exotic touch.
15) Perfect peacock
If bright and bold colours are your thing, consider taking some inspiration from the beautiful colours of a peacock. Think royal blue, turquoise, green, and gold. This vibrant and luxurious palette is perfect for a wedding that feels both opulent and whimsical. Imagine rich blue tablecloths, turquoise accents, green foliage, and gold details that bring a touch of elegance.
Wedding colour palette inspiration
If you’re looking for some inspiration for wedding colour palettes, check out our mood boards below, which feature a whole rainbow of fabulous hues! Feel free to incorporate your favourite shades in one of our wedding colour scheme ideas above, whether it’s a passionate red hue or a sunny yellow tone.
Red wedding colour palette
Orange wedding colour palette
Yellow wedding colour palette
Green wedding colour palette
Blue wedding colour palette
Purple wedding colour palette
Pink wedding colour palette
White wedding colour palette
Black wedding colour palette
The bottom line on wedding colour schemes
It can feel like a lot of pressure to choose your wedding colour scheme. It influences every part of your big day and sets the tone for your entire celebration. But, remember — it also helps streamline conversations with your venue and suppliers. Plus, it makes it all the easier to search for wedding inspiration pictures and envision what your big day will eventually look like!
Take a scan through the 15 beautiful wedding colour schemes and see what takes your fancy. Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on your own unique preference. This is your big day, after all, and you should use the colours that best convey the mood and vibe you want on your big day. Happy planning!
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- How to Plan a Themed Wedding
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Happy Planning!
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