Ahhhh…  We’re all moved into our new place, enough things are unpacked to make it livable (well, short of not having kitchen countertops, but those are on the way!), and I finally feel like I can breathe again!  *Inhale, exhale, repeat*  Very much looking forward to this long holiday weekend to catch up on some things…

…Like blogging!  I have sorely neglected this blog lately, but I promise those days are coming to an end.  There is simply too much inspiration, too many fun projects, too many good things and fabulous ideas to not share them with you!

Today I wanted to show you some unexpected ways to add color to your wedding or event.  Thank you, Pinterest, for the ideas! (If you’re not following me, please do!)  Traditionally colors are incorporated into the event via the bridesmaids’ dresses, flowers, invitations (see my collection for some bold color splashes), etc.  But there are plenty of other ways to add a big color statement without blowing the budget.

First up, table linens!  Forget the plain white or ivory with the colored runner or overlay.  Go BOLD!  The minimal price difference between white and colored (usually, and assuming they’re the same fabric) is totally worth the awesome vibe they’ll bring to your event.  I found this example over on Flikr (photo by Studio Laguna, photostream of D’Amico Catering).  Love how they used the same color centerpiece as they did the table linens.  And with this much color you don’t  necessarily need a huge centerpiece.  A great way to warm up an entire room without much effort!

Next up, food!  You’re paying for delicious niblets anyway, whether it be a meal, hors d’oeuvres, or desserts, so maybe there are ways to incorporate your color scheme into the menu.  The obvious place to add a hue is in your cake.  I ADORE this textured, green ombre wonder by Maggie Austin Cakes (via Lela New York’s Blog)!!  It’s so fresh!!  I also love these raspberry swirl mini cheesecakes (get the recipe at Annie’s Eats) for a red and white event.  I might actually use these at my future-sister-in-law’s shower this summer!  Or how about your drinks?  Found these little swizzle-laden beauties over at Martha Stewart‘s site!

Another option is lighting.  Good lighting (and a truly professional lighting company) can completely set the mood for your event.  Check out this image from Colin Cowie Weddings.  Ira Levy, Lighting Designer, washed this room in a cool blue.  Pay attention to the chandeliers: they’re not real!  They’re lighted projections on sheer hanging curtains.  How cool is that??

One other way to add color to your wedding in an unexpected way: wear a colored petticoat with your dress.  :)  This is particularly cute if you’re wearing a tea-length or short dress, so everyone can get a peek at your not-so-secret detail.  Also, it’s a unique way to add your “something blue,” too!  This particular petticoat can be purchased through Pettiskirt Style (image via The Las Vegas Wedding Planner).

Follow me over on Pinterest to see my entire collection of colorful ideas.  Until next time…