B A N Q U E T S , R E C E P T I O N S , S H O W E R S & P A R T I E S
C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
8
Soft Colors, Big Impact
Feminine pastel hues, if used the right way, can create a sophisticated
wedding palette. Here’s how to do it
By Julia Haskins, CTW Features
It’s natural for some brides to balk at the thought of a pastel
color scheme for their wedding. A lighter color palette can
scream baby shower when a bride is trying to portray a pol-
ished, grown-up feel for the event. But don’t be intimidated
by the light color palette’s gentle reputation. Take soft shades
from mild to mind-blowing with these tips.
GO TOWARD THE LIGHT
Some brides might not consider lighter colors in their wed-
ding backdrop for fear of what the hues convey. Lighter col-
ors can be construed as not as sophisticated. But it’s all about
how you use them. Light colors have their heavenly conno-
tations, but can be edgy, especially when balanced against
stark lines and patterns. There’s nothing mellow about rosy
pink when it pops against a dramatic background, or laven-
der when it sneaks its way into a cocktail.
OPT FOR OMBRÉ
When creating a stylish light color palette, ombré can save
the day. The light-to-dark color scale trend still is popular,
and it’s ideal for showing off the array of shades in a soft
color palette and keeping the decor interesting.
Get the most out of a color by playing with its gradient
hues. Explore those monochromatic shades within that col-
or. You can still stay on the lighter end of the spectrum while
only going slightly darker down the color ladder. Display the
full range of an ombré color scheme in long drapery such as
table runners, hanging decor and curtains, or the wedding’s
main centerpiece: the cake.
SHOW RESTRAINT
There are so many soft colors to choose, from lime green to
tangerine orange. But using too many of them in one event
