Love on Top: Vintage Carnival-Inspired Wedding Decor

Trends
Seek inspiration from the Greatest Show on Earth for wedding-day décor that’s as entertaining as it is elegant.

Published:

Spring/Summer 2016

Up, up and away! For a centerpiece that will prompt “oohs” and “aahs,” think big and think bold. For one like this, reminiscent of a vintage hot-air balloon, weave strings of fabric around a 30-inch balloon, then tie it securely into a wicker basket full of flowers.

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Carry the carnival theme through to the last bite. Duluth’s How Sweet It Is Cakes designed this two-tiered tent cake, complete with bronze elephant toppers. Switch out the “love” for your initials or wedding date to make the dessert your own.

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For florals, think beyond color palette and flower types. First, do your research—see what will be in season. Then play with textures, sneak in some unexpected greenery and tie it all together with a patterned ribbon. Here, Felicia Kohlhagen of Florology paired a variety of roses (Juliet garden roses, orange roses and peach rose sprays) with pom pom ranunculus, scabiosa pods, yellow kangaroo paw, eucalyptus, tan peacock feathers, emu feather foliage, dusty miller and blush willow stems.

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Months before your wedding day, give your guests a peek at what’s to come with an invitation suite that’s bound to be featured on refrigerators. This circus-themed ensemble combines playful fonts with cheeky copy and subtle silhouettes.

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Send your man down the aisle in style with a boutonniere brimming with hardy florals, like this one by Florology. Pom pom ranunculus, scabiosa pod, yellow kangaroo paw, tan peacock feather, blush willow foliage and emu feather foliage—all featured in the bouquet too—are wrapped together and pinned to suspenders for a look that’s fresh, not stuffy.

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For dinnertime décor, On Solid Ground Vintage Rentals provided these slightly mismatched farm chairs, for an utterly charming ambience. Add one impressive centerpiece and a delectable meal to get conversation flowing.

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Simply stunning. To get the glamorous, vintage-esque look, layer a Juliet cap veil over an intricately beaded slip dress, and choose an inky oxblood lip color to coordinate with dramatic curls.

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No one can say no to a taste (or two) of something sweet. Gift your guests with these mini bites of cotton candy; this little treat will guarantee your friends and family stay energized through the last dance.

Season:

spring
summer

WEDDING PRO TEAM

Event Coordination and Styling
Florals
Rentals
Cake Stand & Plateware
Stationery
Bride's Dress
Headpiece and Veil
Hair & Makeup
Groom's Attire and Shoes