When you begin the wedding planning process, one of the things you need to do early in the game is determine the feel you want your wedding to have. To do this, you need to make a decision about the level of formality that appeals to you. This is an overview of the differences between formal, informal, and semi-formal weddings.
Formal weddings are the most traditional. Men will wear black tie for the evening or morning suits for a daytime ceremony. The bride should plan to wear a long dress with a train. Formal wedding dresses are the most elaborate, with crystal beading, ornate embroidery, or fine lace trim. Classic pearl bridal jewelry and a full veil are always appropriate for a traditional wedding, and long gloves wouldn’t be out of place.
Decorations at a formal wedding reception feature traditionally elegant flowers, such as roses or orchids. Large centerpieces in tall silver vases or lush displays of roses make perfect tabletop displays. Set the table with fine china, shimmering crystal stemware and shimmering silver on damask tablecloths. Depending on the size of the guest list, a band or even a small orchestra would make beautiful music for the wedding reception. Finish off the night with a tall, white, multi-tiered wedding cake.
Semi-formal weddings are a step down from the opulence of formal weddings. Men at a semi-formal wedding should wear a suit, whether the ceremony is day or night. As for the bride, she could wear an A-line, trumpet, or sheath wedding dress instead of a very full formal dress. A medium level of embellishment on the dress would be appropriate, along with a chapel or sweep train, a veil, and simple pearl bridal jewelry. Long or long bridesmaid dresses would be acceptable for a semi-formal wedding.
The decor for a semi-formal wedding will be just as beautiful as a formal wedding, just not as ornate. Silver-rimmed china, streamlined glass and classic table linens are the order of the day. The same flowers that work for a formal wedding would be nice for a semi-formal reception, but they will tend to be more simply arranged. Less elegant flowers such as hydrangeas or buttercups can also be introduced as centerpieces. Dinner stations or family-style service would be great for a reception.
There is a fairly wide range of what constitutes an informal wedding. In general, men will wear jackets and pants rather than a full suit or tuxedo, or maybe even a button down shirt and pants without the jacket. The bride’s dress at an informal wedding can be just about anything she desires. It could be a very simple ivory organza strapless gown with a sweep train or a 1950s-inspired design. For less formal ceremonies, the bride can even stray from anything resembling a wedding dress and simply Wear your favorite pretty dress in any color. Every bride should carry at least one small bouquet, however, no matter how casual her outfit is,
Informal wedding decorations can be very cheerful and festive. Gerbera daisies in bright shades of pink and orange are a favorite for casual weddings. Centerpieces with wildflowers placed in clear glass Mason jars could be ideal for a backyard reception. A buffet service is appropriate for an informal dinner. The music can be whatever the bride and groom like best, from a DJ to a bluegrass band to their own iPod loaded with great tunes.
The key to wedding planning is designing an event that truly feels like you. So if you love the idea of feeling like a princess for a day, opt for a formal wedding. If you like things classic but not overdone, a semi-formal wedding will suit your taste. And for those couples who want their wedding day to be relaxed and carefree, an informal wedding will be perfect.
