How-To: Wedding Theme

Choosing a wedding theme can feel surprisingly overwhelming. Many couples worry about making the “right” choice, or about selecting something that looks beautiful but does not truly reflect who they are.

My approach is to slow the process down. By guiding couples through a few clear decisions step by step, the theme begins to feel less daunting and far more personal.

Step 1: Start with the overall feeling, not the details

Before looking at colours or decor, I always encourage couples to think about how they want the day to feel. The atmosphere you want to create should guide every design decision that follows.

Whether you are drawn to something intimate, elegant, relaxed, or celebratory, being clear on the mood helps narrow down options naturally. When the feeling is right, the details tend to fall into place more easily.

Step 2: Let your venue guide the style

Your venue already carries a certain character, and working with it will make your theme feel more cohesive.

Instead of trying to incorporate too many different elements, couples can consider observing what already works - the architecture, lighting, surroundings, and scale. A theme that complements your venue will always feel more effortless and refined.

Step 3: Anchor the theme in who you are as a couple

A wedding theme should reflect both your personalities, not just current trends.

I often remind couples to look at their everyday preferences. If you naturally gravitate towards clean, simple styles, a heavily layered or overly extravagant theme may not feel comfortable on the day. Choosing something that aligns with who you are helps the celebration feel authentic and natural.

Step 4: Add a few personal highlights

This is where the wedding truly becomes yours.

Instead of trying to personalise everything, I usually suggest focusing on a few thoughtful elements - perhaps a floral style you love, a meaningful detail, or a standout feature that reflects your story. These touches bring character to the celebration without overwhelming the overall design.

Step 5: Get a wedding planner for guidance

As a planner myself, I sit through discussions with our couple to better understand the overarching wants and needs of their wedding. What is helpful is that after these discussions, we put together an initial mood board that reflects the vision that resonates with them. This provides clear direction for the venue stylist and is the first step to bringing the dream

wedding to life.

If you would like guidance in shaping your wedding vision and translating it into a clear, cohesive direction, Vows at Dawn is here to help!