We’re calling it — ultra-formal weddings are on their way back in (in the best way possible!). And the return to the white glove treatment is all about going the extra step for your guests (think hand-delivered invitations and escort card valets). To completely pull it off you’ll need elevated details like an ornate cake, a show-stopping setting and a royalty-inspired inspired wedding look. Read on for how to throw your white glove-worthy wedding.
Clockwise from left: Josh Gruetzmacher | Mozingo Photography | Dear Wesleyann | Tory Williams Photography | Liz Banfield Photography | Kurt Wilberding | Victor Sizemore Photography | Alison Davis Photography
1. Formal Chair Covers
Take decor to the next step with added details like these chair covers for you and your new spouse.
Buy here: Eyelet Chair Banners, $68, BHLDN.com
2. A Classic Cake With Extra Detail
A wedding dress inspired cake with elegant draping adds a wow factor, especially the realistic looking draping topped off with a pretty bow and even buttons. The result is a stunning all-white cake that’s anything but boring.
From the album: An Elegant Wedding at San Francisco City Hall in San Francisco, CA
3. A Private Castle or Estate Wedding Venue
The venue sets the tone, so look for locations with stunning architecture. Start your search in historic private estates, ballrooms or even a castle (yes, there are lots of castles you can get married in right here in the US!). For an outdoor ceremony the venue is all you need to create a pretty backdrop like this wedding at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.
From the album: A Timeless Vintage Wedding in Asheville, NC
4. Formal Flourishes
Look for little ways to add formality to details like your stationery suite. It’s not every day your guests receive a letter sealed with wax, and adding this touch is one extra touch that they’ll really appreciate.
Buy here: Wax Seal Kit, $15, Nordstrom.com
5. Classic Escort Cards With a Twist
Keep the champagne, sparkling wine or prosecco flowing all night long. Tie the bubbly into the decor details with champagne glass escort cards or end the night with a champagne tower.
6. Regal Accessories
If your look is bold and you want to make a statement amp up your look by wearing a crown (or if you’re looking for something more subtle opt for a dainty tiara instead).
From the album: A Private Estate Wedding in Napa Valley, CA
7. A Stylish Exit
Complete the grand exit by riding off in style. A vintage car like a Rolls Royce or Bentley is one option or take a page out of the royal playbook and hope in a horse drawn carriage covered in flowers.
From the album: An Organic Countryside Wedding at a Private Residence in Barrington Hills, IL
8. A Modern Ball Gown
When in your life are you ever going to have another chance to wear a ball gown. Go for lots of volume in a soft and ethereal fabric and a champagne hue makes it feel sophisticated and elegant.
From the collection: Monique Lhuillier Fall 2015
9. Luxe Florals
Think beyond just your centerpieces and bouquets and look for unexpected places to put flowers like wreaths on the doors, hanging from the ceiling and even a sweetheart table covered in flowers.
From the album: A Classic Formal Wedding at the Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast, CA
10. High Centerpieces
Go for structured, tall centerpieces to fill up a room with high ceilings or bring elegance to the outdoors. For the color palette think ivory and white flowers with a few jewel-tone blooms in purple or red. Finish it off with metallic vessels in gold or silver.
From the album: A Vintage Garden Wedding in Dallas, TX
Want more? Of course you do!
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> This is how you put together a formal place setting (for your wedding and beyond!)
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