Have you been dreaming about the ultimate fairytale wedding? The first step is, of course, to secure a magical venue like Nanina’s in the Park; but there are many more fairytale elements that you can incorporate throughout your wedding to give it that storybook vibe.
A Princess-Inspired Dress
You don’t have to dress up exactly like Belle or Cinderella, but you can find a dress that looks similar. Take a look at some of your favorite fairytale dresses and write down which colors or design elements appeal to you the most— perhaps an off-the-shoulder style with a sweetheart neckline, a hint of a bustle in the skirts, or lavish embroidery. Then search for a wedding gown that includes those features—and don’t forget the glass slippers!
Hairstyles are another way to subtly include storybook romance at your wedding. Model the hairstyle of your favorite princess, and have your bridesmaids’ hair done in a similar style.
Iconic Fairytale Elements
Want to extend the fairytale theme to the invitations and programs? Have the wedding invitations and the programs designed in scroll form, like the announcement that a herald might read in ancient times.
Instead of traditional candle holders, opt for holders in the shape of tiny crowns. You can also choose ornate candelabra styled after the ones used at castle feast tables. Use lovely leather volumes as part of the centerpieces on the reception tables, as a tribute to old storybooks.
A “Be Our Guest” Book
Buy a guestbook that features a fairytale theme. Maybe it has “Once Upon a Time” or “A Tale As Old As Time” on the cover, or perhaps it includes lovely storybook-style drawings among the pages where your guests will sign their names. You can order a themed guestbook online or have a local artisan craft one to your specifications.
Enchanted Forest Decor
If you envision yourself as a fairy princess, why not go with an “enchanted forest” theme? Have your florist weave a gorgeous crown of fresh blooms for your head and create a fantastic spray of wildflowers as your bouquet. Drape your reception tables in trailing ivy (real or artificial depending on what your venue allows), and keep the centerpiece arrangements natural and wild-looking. For a Beauty and the Beast theme, classic red roses are the perfect romantic touch.
A Fairytale Cake
One bride had her wedding cake presented inside a beautiful open sculpture of Cinderella’s coach. Another ordered a fantastic castle-shaped cake, a truly magnificent sight. If you prefer a more classic look for your cake, you can pay tribute to storybook elegance in other ways. Request that your baker include words from a favorite story on the cake, or place a special fairytale cake topper at the pinnacle of the piece.
“Happily Ever After” Favors
At the end of your wedding, surprise your guests will some lovely “happily ever after” favors.” These can be tiny books, engraved goblets, little glass slippers, bottle openers shaped like the key to a castle, or anything else that fits your fairytale wedding theme.
