70 Colorful Wedding Ideas to Make Your Big Day Pop

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Updated on 06/14/21

Pink and red table setting — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography; Event Planning by Moana Belle Events; Floral Design by Of the Flowers; Stationery & Paper Goods by Lotus & Ash; Rentals by Blaze Entertainment, Big Island Tents, Hawaii Island Rentals & Hawaii Sound & Vision

We love a classic neutral palette, but the soft trend now has some serious competition in the form of bright, vibrant hues and bold patterns. Colorful wedding ideas may not be a part of the typical wedding scheme, but that’s exactly why we love them—they mark a fun departure from ubiquitous delicate tones and will wow your guests with their splashy standout shades.

There are a few approaches you can take when it comes to colorful wedding ideas and a vibrant scheme: Choose one or two colors to really pop against an otherwise achromatic palette, mix a few shades in a similar color family for a consistent look, or go all out with a rainbow of colors to bring your decor to life. Don't be afraid to mix and match or contrast—unexpected combinations can turn into the most unique and personal touch of the day.

These 70 colorful wedding ideas offer up splashes of color that pack a serious punch. Browse them all down below.

Outline the Altar

Floral mandala — Photo by From SF With Love

If a traditional wedding arch isn't to your fancy, you can frame the nuptial ceremony by drawing attention with visual aids and inviting hues. Here, a mandala fashioned from bold orange and magenta flowers creates a sacred spot to exchange vows.

Display Eye-Catching Pop Art

Bright painting — Photo by Amy Arrington

A pop art-inspired canvas with colorful, funky brush strokes serves as a masterpiece of a seating arrangement display. Commission a favorite artist to customize a special piece just for you or have some fun with a paint-and-wine night with the bridal party.

Showcase the Wedding Cake Color

Yellow ruffled cake with floral topper — Photo by Leslie D Photography

Forget traditional white—this yellow ruffled confection topped with vibrant blooms proves that color is all a wedding cake really needs. No frosting necessary here, this mouthwatering treat is au naturel.

Build a Bar

Colorful mediterranean bar with lemons — Photo by Jenny Haas; Event Planning by A Charming Fête; Floral Design by Molly Taylor & Co.

This fun bar setup takes on hacienda vibes with a wall of patterned blue tiles and a bounty of citrus accents. We're instantly teleported to a sunny seaside location by just looking at it.

Brighten the Aisle With Colored Streamers

Aisle runner of colored streamers — Photo by Alyssa Marie Photography

Amp up your ceremony seating with a rainbow of colored streamers along the aisle for a fun twist. The end result looks fabulous as is but makes for some incredible wedding photos when swept up in a light breeze.

Wear Flowers in Your Hair

Bride with flower crown — Photo by For Love and Light Photography; Floral Design by Chesca Makes Things

Whatever color your tresses are, they'll come to life with a few blooms woven in. Simplify the 'do with a single posie tucked in or go for a full flower crown like this Frida Kahlo–inspired beauty of orchids and roses.

Set the Tone With the Invitation Suite

Watercolor floral stationery suite — Photo by Danielle Defiore; Event Design by Isabelle Kline Design

The invitation suite is the perfect way to prime your guests for all of the colorful creations that await them on the big day. The attention to detail on this watercolor set is absolutely divine from the illustrative renditions of the wedding floral arrangements to the pistachio envelope and that incredible liner portraiture.

Weave Pops of Color Into the Ceremony Arch

Colorful floral arch — Photo by Amos Photography

A lush ceremony arch of dark greenery and pops of orange florals is just right for an autumn wedding. For springtime fêtes, consider soft pastels, and bright petals are a must for summer. Transition into the moodier hues of brooding crimsons and dusky plums to complement a wintry scene.

Set Up an Ombré Escort Card Wall

Orange gradient escort cards — Photo by Peyton Rainey Photography

A gradient of escort cards brings a splash of sunshine to a blank wall and makes the task of finding seats visually satisfying. We love how this idea can easily be altered to fit any color theme.

Consider a Macramé Backdrop

Colorful lounge area — Photo by Priscila Valentina

Eclectic bohemian meets Moroccan in this playful lounge setup. A macramé backdrop, vibrant flowers, and playfully printed pillows and rug combine for a saturated mix of eye-catching tones.

Select a Bold Pooling Tablecloth

A cobalt blue tablecloth fits in well with the lush surroundings, combining with a running centerpiece of sunny candles and rich green flora for a tropical flair. We can't get enough of the added dose of drama, courtesy of that effortless pooling effect.

Get Creative With Floral Arrangements

Citrus hued floral arrangements — Photo by Charla Storey Photography

Summery blooms in citrus tones adorn a white chair for an editorial-chic look—the perfect way to liven up a lounge area. Punchy florals are a great way to incorporate color throughout a space, and putting a unique spin on placement totally ups the ante.

Blow Up Some Balloons

Balloons with streamer tails — Photo by Faye Cornhill Photography

White balloons with tails of colorful streamers put a twist on the classic aisle marker. Festive and fun, they're enough to make any bride want to dance down the aisle.

Accessorize Your Guests

Wedding guests in pink turbans — Photo by Andrew Bayda & Misha Moon; Floral Design by Wild at Heart

Ensure your wedding photos will be picture-perfect by coordinating the guest attire. While you can dictate a colored dress code through the invites, we're obsessed with this couple's quirky spin on favors by providing guests with hot pink turbans.

Use Agates for Place Settings

Agate place card — Photo by Katie McGihon

Luxe meets earthy in agate place settings of rich plum with gilded edges—just right for the indie bride. Agates come in a full spectrum of colors and tones that suit any wedding theme and double as a personalized take-home gift.

Don't Settle for Chairs

Why settle for just one color when you can have them all? Ombré has never looked as hot as it does in this rainbow of a reception table setting. Check out how each velvet chair matches the accompanying linens—talk about a work of art.

Include a Personal Touch

Watercolor nuptial altar — Photo by Christa Kimble

This DIY ceremony backdrop is a masterpiece. The arch, made of reclaimed wood, frames an abstract canvas painted by the bride herself, bringing a personal touch to the ceremony.

Fashion a Floral Canopy

Newlyweds under floral canopy — Photo by To The Moon

This brightly hued combination of blooms is nothing short of majestic. We can't imagine a more wondrous canopy to frame the sweetheart table, or lounge seating in this case, and envelope the newlyweds in its sweet scent.

Tie Ribbons on Ceremony Chairs

Wooden chair with pink ribbons — Photo by Katie Stoops Photography

Ribbons in sorbet hues drape across a ceremony chair, accented by a bouquet of florals in matching tones, for a wildly elegant finish. The combination of the rustic chair and playful decor gives us all the youthful maypole vibes.

Welcome Guests in Style

Paint splatter wedding welcome sign — Photo by Caleb John Hill; Event Planning by Tricia Dahlgren Events

What a welcome! This unexpected paint-splatter effect departs from the typical wooden welcome sign, greeting guests as they enter the ceremony and gives a prelude of the excitement (and the color scheme) to come.

Take On Textures

Tablescape with purple knit runner — Photo by Lilly Red Creative

A rich magenta wool runner is the showstopper in this bohemian setting of wild organics, creating a sense of warmth and moody romance. Knitwear may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to reception linens, but this display definitely makes a case for it.

Drink From Vibrant Glassware

Tablescape with multi colored glassware — Photo by Cami Jane Photography

Vibrant, colorful glassware and a butter-colored runner coalesce on a rustic wooden farmer's table for some fiesta inspiration. Keep the glassware to a singular shape and hue for a more refined approach or mix in a variety of complementary colors and mismatched shapes for an eclectic spin.

Design a Backdrop With Coral Blooms

Macrame backdrop — Photo by Brandon Kidd Photography

Coral blooms and sultry jungle-like leaves adorn a wood and macramé folding screen for a punch of paradise. The soft macramé serves as the perfect base to weave fresh stems through in this multidimensional mix of textures and tones creating a scene fit for tropical dreams.

Spice Up a Cake Display

Dessert wall with yellow accents — Photo by Cassie Loree Photography; Event Styling by Blooming House Collective

This warm and earthy cake display takes on autumnal gold with its spice-colored fabric, fruits, and sweets, and seeded eucalyptus bouquet. A table handcrafted from worn barnwood finishes off the vintage rustic feel.

Outfit the Wedding Party

Wedding party in shades of green — Photo by Picture Me & U; Floral Design by Pebble and Lace

The wedding party is an intrinsic part of the big day, weaving its members into each event and taking a prominent place in most of the photos. Use their attire as an opportunity to add some visual interest to your theme, like this couple did with organic shades of green.

Add a Splash of Neon to Your Seating Chart

Seating chart with neon strings — Photo by Shane Shepherd

This seating chart is all fun and games. Neon strings bring contemporary color to an otherwise earthy display and give guests a playful, interactive experience to kick-start the reception.

Be Daring With Sweetheart Table Decor

Photo by Braedon Flynn; Venue at Casa de Monte Vista

With a Palm Springs vibe and some eclectic flair, this lively sweetheart table dances in color. Mix textiles in a variety of patterns, textures, and colors to create an inviting and relaxed environment. The results will not only create a great conversation piece but make for some incredible photos, too.

Run a Cascading Garland

Overflowing rose centerpiece — Photo by Erich McVey; Floral Design by East Olivia; Local Flowers by Viva Flor

A jewel-tone palette and rich, cascading garland pop against the neutral stone of this reception space for a look of glamorous modern romance. We just can't get enough of how lush these overflowing bougainvillea and rose arrangements are.

Take Advantage of Minimalist Settings

Colorful rug with cacti — Photo by Vienna Glen Photography

Robust colors are all the more effective in a minimalist setting. A simple, vintage bohemian rug with cerulean details, flanked by cactuses, has a hip indie feel.

Strategically Place Tapestries

Another way to incorporate colorful textiles into wedding decor is by hanging tapestries. This trio brings tons of amber and persimmon hues to the scene, creating a unique photo backdrop and infusing some of the local culture in the process.

Set Up a Fresh-Picked Escort Card Display

Pink anthurium escort card display — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography; Event Planning by Moana Belle Events; Escort Display by Grace Flowers Hawaii

This escort card display is as fresh as it gets. The pink flower wall consists of 160 live anthuriums calligraphed with each guest's name.

Hang Geometric Wall Pockets With Sprawling Greenery

Geometric floral wall art — Photo by Redfield Photography

Pentagon wall pockets in metallic chartreuse and sprawling greenery with oxblood and marigold florals create modern, organic wall art with geometric flair. Whitewashed brick walls are the ultimate canvas for some floral fun.

Use Full-Spectrum Signage

Rainbow sign — Photo by Red Apple Tree Photography; Event Planning by Jason Mitchell Kahn

Chances are you'll be showing off some sort of instructional signage throughout the wedding. So why not use it as a vehicle for some color? These rainbow acrylic signs could brighten up any space.

Color Signs With Fancy Fonts

White welcome sign with orange gradient typography — Photo by Tida Svy

For a more subtle approach to signage, opt for a demure base and let the font do all the talking. This bold gradient typography adds just enough pizzaz without overtaking the overall theme.

Drape a Cool Backdrop

Purple gradient backdrop with macrame — Photo by Nicole Leever

An ombré photo backdrop with macramé accents has just the right amount of bohemian touch. This verve of fuchsia will undoubtedly have everyone fighting for a photo op.

Serve Colorful Cocktails

Signature drinks with floral garnishes — Photo by Betsi Ewing; Event Planning by Katie Jethwa of Kate Elizabeth Brides; Catering by Trellis Catering

Signature drinks are a fun way to make a splash. If colored syrups and liquors aren't quite your speed, you can always liven drinks up with bright (edible) floral garnishes or funky paper straws.

Create Casual Uniformity

Red and white reception — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography; Event Planning & Floral Design by Shannon Leahy Events; Rentals by Bright Rentals, BBJ Linen, Found Rentals, La Tavola, Casa de Perrin & Theoni

More casual events on the wedding itinerary, like welcome parties for example, are the perfect opportunities for color-forward bashes. This red-and-white celebration is totally picnic-chic, complete with floral linens, woven chargers, and potted plants.

Get Creative With Your Seating Chart

Balloon seating chart — Photo by MorningWild Photography

Up, up, and away—how fun is this seating plan? Jade green balloons announce the table number while jewel-tone tassels along the strings hold each guest's name.

Pretty Up the Reception With Pinks

Pink tablescapes — Photo by Gideon Photo

This hot pink reception is a step back in time to 1960s Palm Springs, with mid-century mod chairs and cactus centerpieces. We're all about the retro-glam desert vibes with this precious monochromatic look.

Write on the Walls

Wedding Ceremony Space with Splashes of Orange — Photo by Sara Monika Photographer

A ceremony space with both a shock of color and element of artistry is stunning and unique. A huge sunburst of Pollock-inspired paint splatters adorns the walls, complemented by a chandelier of greenery with cascading orange ribbons and flowers.

Bring Raw Wood to Life

Wooden chuppah with bright florals — Photo by Elyse Hall Photography

Perky blooms in salmon and mandarin tones elevate the rustic character of this reclaimed wood frame. This organic summery chuppah is the stuff of earthy and whimsical dreams.

Discuss any seasonal weather patterns or extreme temperatures with your florist when choosing flowers for outdoor events to ensure the blooms can withstand the climate and won't be wilting mid-ceremony.

Maintain a Maximalist Approach

Teal tablescape with gold accents — Photo by Laura Goldenberger

Maximalism is at its finest here in cool green and blue shades, with a decadent centerpiece of succulents in this crisp desert tablescape. A smoke bomb–inspired velvet tablecloth and copper accents add even more depth to the scene.

Incorporate Vintage Whimsy to Your Cake Table

Colorful cake table — Photo by Raya Photography

This is one creative cake table. A jade green cabinet, wooden pallet backdrop adorned with imaginative paper designs, marquee lights, and book accents come together for some vintage whimsy.

Get Flashy With Napkins

Table setting with bright napkin — Photo by Nichols Photographers

Patterned linen napkins in pink put a preppy spin on this place setting. The otherwise neutral color palette is treated to just a hint of bold color for some visual intrigue.

Find Fun Ways to Add More Blooms

Bathtub with flowers — Photo by Sarah-Jane Ethan Photography

We're not sure what a bathtub of overflowing flora is doing here, but we love every bit of this charming decor piece. Pink, orange, and white florals pack a springtime punch and some garden fever.

Wear a Bold Colored Dress

Bride in emerald green wedding dress in canyon — Photo by Elizabeth Wells Photography; Event Planning by Juniper and Lace Events; Gown by Milla Nova; Floral Design by Eight Tree Street Floral

Quintessential white is a traditional favorite, but rocking an emerald green bridal gown makes quite the sartorial statement. This beauty went all out with the saturated color palette even having her groom don a matching green tux. If something less bold is more in line with your style, look for dresses in subtle pastel hues or shades of not-so-white-balanced white.

Dye Your Hair a Pastel Color

Close up of bride with lavender hair in bun with pearl pin — Photo by Josh Elliott Photography

More brides are rocking nontraditional hair colors and we couldn't be more revved about it, especially in romantic pastel hues like this chignon. While this babe went for lovely lavender locks, a little bit of tint could also make for a unique something blue.

Or Rock Rainbow Strands

Bride with rainbow hair and groom — Photo by Chris Klas Photo

Can't commit to just one shade? Take on a whole spectrum of hues for a daring statement with magical rainbow strands.

Play With Prints

Floral print tablescape — Photo by Carrie Patterson Photography; Event Planning by In Any Event JH; Floral Design by Lily and Co.; Rentals by Canvas Unlimited & Lily and Co.

Florals for weddings may not be groundbreaking, but floral prints are an oh-so sweet way to incorporate some additional hues. This tablescape weaved in a blue-and-white theme with a matching runner and salad plate combo and kicked things up a notch with a vibrant pink centerpiece of peonies, ranunculus, roses, clematis, and cosmos.

Build a Balloon Arch

We spotted this balloon arch in an engagement proposal, but we think it would be just as wow-worthy as a ceremony backdrop. Best of all? It can be a pretty, budget-friendly alternative to some floral installations with just a trip to the party supply store.

Get Crafty

Heart shaped aisle runners — Photo by Heart & Sparrow Photography

We heart these adorable and cost-effective aisle decorations. Get your DIY hats on for this super simple craft sesh—all you need is some colored paper, scissors, adhesive, and wooden sticks.

Use Lots of Confetti

Bridesmaids in pink robes with confetti — Photo by Flora + Fauna

Whether having guests toss it during an exit ceremony or popping balloons and throwing confetti around on the morning of your wedding, a handful of this fairy-dust will create the most exciting photos. Play with bits of color for a celebratory vibe or experiment with different finishes to refract light for a shimmer effect.

If you choose to toss confetti outside, we recommend opting for a biodegradable variety that won't disturb the natural ecosystem.

Set Off a Smokeshow

Colorful smoke bomb send off — PHOTO BY WILD WHIM PHOTOGRAPHY

Smoke bombs add a dreamlike quality to your couple’s portraits or send-off photos. Choose colors that blend with the overall theme for a magical aura but exercise caution as these can stain.

Design a Unique Installation

Floral hanging installation — Courtesy of Chancey Charm

If your love of flowers reigns supreme (second to your honey, ofcourse) make them the visual pièce de résistance of the big day. This suspended installation created a fantastical canopy over the rooftop ceremony space.

Light Up a Room With Colored Candles

Tablescape with blue taper candles — Photo by Flora & Fauna; Event Planning by Tall & Small Events; Floral Design by Athabod

Whether taper, pillar, votive, or tea light, candles aren't limited to any certain size or shape—so why limit the supply to a single ivory hue? Illuminate your wedding decor with waxy accoutrements in a variety of shades from brooding tones to light and airy tints. This tablescape reflects a storybook garden scene with crystal glassware, wildflowers, and pale blue taper candles.

Hang Floral Chandeliers

Hanging chandeliers of vibrant flowers decorated the ceiling of this tented wedding in Hawaii. We love the innovative use of roof space, fully utilizing the scope of the structure and drawing the eyes upward to take it all in.

Craft Watercolor Escort Cards

For a subtle take on the whimsical theme, consider these beautiful watercolor escort cards. Got a knack for crafts? Pick up some watercolor card stock and a paint set to create your own and artistically release some of that wedding-planning stress.

Liven Up Your Wedding Stationery

Watercolor stationery — Photo by Rita Clifton Photography; Event Design and Coordination by Stephanie Rose Events

Liven up your wedding stationery with a watercolor motif that incorporates the theme or combination of colors of the wedding decor. If watercolor isn't to your taste, geometric styles or color-blocked prints are great, punchy alternatives.

Tastefully Accent With Neon

Neon fiesta-themed tablescape — Photo by Kate Headley; Event Planning by A Day in May Events; Floral Design by Bloom Floral Design & Compass Floral; Rentals by Display Group, Event Source, Event Theory & Frost Florida Event Productions

This beautiful reception is proof that you can incorporate neon accents without going overboard. The fiesta theme beautifully adds some much-appreciated visual depth to the bright colors with more saturated textiles and natural wood and straw accents.

Pluck Cactus Place Cards

A cactus place card is totally steal-worthy for a desert soirée. The refreshing, minty color is absolutely divine amongst the cobalt blue plates and gilded flatware.

Colorize With Cotton Candy

Cotton candy escort cards — Photo by Rita Clifton Photography; Event Design and Coordination by Stephanie Rose Events

Raise your glasses to a delightful toast: champagne paired with cotton candy. Sweet, bubbly, and dreamy as can be this playful idea is absolutely effervescent.

Order an Artistic Wedding Cake

Brushstroke wedding cake — Photo by CHARD Photographer

We love the textured effect of this multicolor wedding cake. Who knew sunset-hues of salmon pinks, golds, and oranges could look so stunning mixed with various shades of blue?

Make an Entrance

Colorful floral arch over entryway — Photo by Danielle Defiore; Event Design by Isabelle Kline Design

Greet guests by setting a color-coordinated precedent of what's to come. This stunning floral arch of lush greenery, blue delphiniums, and eye-catching roses punctuate the entryway with a fabulous flourish.

Paint Table Settings With Abstract Chargers

Dessert-hued charger plates — Photo by Elizabeth Wells Photography; Event Planning by Juniper and Lace Events; Rentals by BBJ Linen, Moab Event Services, Premier Floral Design & World Market

Statement chargers can do so much for a tablescape and, since they primarily serve as a frame from the actual plates, won't detract from the phenomenal cuisine. These abstract swashes of turquoise and rusty desert tones (complemented by rose gold flatware and glassware no less) already have our mouths watering.

Punch It Up With Citrus

Centerpiece arrangement of flowers and citrus fruit — Photo by Tida Svy

Grapefruits and lemons and oranges, oh my! Citrus fruits aren't just for mimosas and cocktail garnishes, they make for aromatic centerpiece accents that can transport you to a whole new sensorial space. Cut them in half to reveal their bright, juicy colors (and release their fragrant oils) and pair them with complementary blooms for an unforgettable display.

Bring On the Fun With Funfetti Cake

Nothing says fun quite like the colorful confection that is a funfetti cake. This two-tiered cutie instantly takes us back to the glory days of our childhood.

Hang Flower Garlands

Newlyweds in front of yellow flower garlands — Photo by Kami Olvarria; Event Planning by Saguzo Eventos; Floral Design by Addy Florales & Native Poppy

Create a doorway where there was none or elevate any blank space with colorful strings of vertically-hung flowers. For cohesion, keep the curtain of blooms within the same color family.

Experiment With Tonal Variations

Red and pink tablescape — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography; Event Planning by Moana Belle Events; Floral Design by Of the Flowers; Stationery & Paper Goods by Lotus & Ash; Rentals by Blaze Entertainment, Big Island Tents, Hawaii Island Rentals & Hawaii Sound & Vision

Somewhere between monochromatic and duo-chromatic stylings lies the beautifully blended look that is this tonal variation. Mixed prints, bold accents, and tropical foliage effortlessly converge thanks to their shared reddish-pink tonality.

Elevate Table Numbers

Pink acrylic table numbers — Photo by RACHEL PEARLMAN

Table numbers don't have to be purely functional; they can be elevated to decor status, too. These acrylic cuties are all things feminine and whimsical with a wash of salmon pink and curvy font.

Drip Colored Frosting

Blue drip cake with rose topper — Photo by Lucy Munoz Photography

Naked cakes dripping with frosting have been all over Pinterest for a while now, and we can't get enough. The natural tranquility of this subdued color palette is heightened by the subtle baby-blue drip.