There is certainly a lot of ebb and flow when it comes to wedding trends; when you factor in seasonality and something as monumental as a global pandemic, new trends (i.e. the microwedding), new ‘favorites’ are seemingly born every day. One of them; however, is what we’d like to call an ‘old faithful,’ but even that isn’t a perfect monaker, because there is nothing old about the festive and always-fire banners and garlands. These decorative motifs add a layer of thoughtfulness and frame-worthy finesse that is dually appreciated by party goers and the couple themselves.
Finishing touches like banners and garlands, specifically banners, are not afterthoughts – not by any stretch of the imagination: instead, they’re intentional and curated. When we think of the other non-article meaning of the word banner, it conjures something that is excellent, outstanding, and of course, what is a wedding and what are vows if not excellent and outstanding? So, when you hang a physical banner on your big day, you’re bringing attention to something great – be it a delightful dessert table, a top-shelf-stocked open bar, or a beautiful and newly-minted Mr. and Mrs. Yes, that last one, the newlyweds, they’re just as delicious as the sweets and spirits!
Garlands, conversely, have a much more subtle stroke in the ornamentation department. Going back to that earlier point about layers, garlands do their thing when draped over tables, stretched out over mantles, suspended over entryways or standout vignette scenes on the special day (during a toast, during cake cutting, or even during non ceremony or reception moments, like those in the bridal suite on the morning of). While floral garlands have become a kind of ‘green’ standard for weddings in the last decade, greenery and foliage-type treatments aren’t the only way to tinker with the trend. Festooning your fete with something whimsy and playful like ribbons or tassels is such a dynamic choice. And, oh the photos 😍.
Take a look at the below (stunningly-gorgeous) inspiration and imagine what could be the perfect aesthetic accompaniment. Then head over to the Style Me Pretty Shop to get the look(s) for your wedding day glow up!
Photo by Ellie Koleen
A gorgeous white barn, white garden chairs, and pops of color brought to you by the tabletop florals. It’s a total dream.
What we might add: a sweet ribbon garland hung at the top of the barn doors. As much as we love a monochromatic look, a dose of soft pinks, champagnes, and ivories can add nice dimension and balance out the absence of color up top. Not to mention, it has that upscale rustic vibe that always pairs well with a big day at the barn.
Photography by Jaimee Morse Fine Art Photography
Classic garden setting, whites and greens will never tire in our eyes; either will gold-wrapped minis atop a beautiful outdoor bar.
What we might add: a similarly-clean and crisp golden “Cheers to Love” banner wrapped around the front facade. The block lettering mixed with the calligraphy creates such a classic and stylistic effect. It can really be added to ANY wedding bar in ANY setting, because cheersing the couple is a universal wedding mood.
Photo by Kristyn Harder Fine Art Photography
A light, airy, and organic environment lends itself SO well to a bohemian, adventurous vibe. A Prosecco cart or any other whimsy nuptials novelty (like a gelato cart, for instance #alwaysthinkingaboutthescoop) is a perfect cherry on top.
What we might add: a neutral bit of texture and playfulness by way of a bead and tassel garland. We can see it so clearly hanging off the awning of the truck. And when it gets dark, some twinning with twinkle lights would look 👌.