Are you a bride inspired by Gothic wedding details like darker color schemes and black bridal gowns? You are in the right place for some Gothic wedding ideas! Read on to learn how to throw a perfect Gothic theme or Halloween wedding.
This type of wedding is unique and an unconventional take on the traditional wedding ceremony. They embrace dark and dramatic aesthetics, drawing inspiration from Gothic literature, architecture, music, and subcultures like goth and steampunk.
Gothic Wedding Color Palette
Put your color palette together by starting with dark jewel tones. Ruby red, sapphire, dark violet, emerald – any or all of these colors are the base to start the gothic wedding look. And of course, beautiful black! Cut pieces of fabrics like velvet and satin in the colors you choose, affix them to an index card, and keep it with you. When something inspires you, having your color palette on hand for reference is a great way to make sure even the small details will elevate your wedding day aesthetic.
Invitations
The wedding invitation should feature Gothic fonts, dark colors, and macabre or Victorian-style designs on a parchment type paper. Gold foil lettering looks perfect against black and dark floral details. Your invitations will be important as you want your guests to understand the Gothic wedding theme.
Venue
Venue selection is an exciting part of wedding planning, and finding the perfect gothic wedding venue is even more fun! They can be held in atmospheric and unique venues such as an old castle, historic mansion, gothic cathedral, or even a cemetery. Look for a dramatic venue with stone and brick details, vintage chandeliers, wrought iron gates, unique windows, and archways. A gothic venue can also be less expensive compared to modern venues and add an extra touch of purity, romance, and drama. The architecture and setting will make the perfect backdrop and create the right ambiance.
Gothic Wedding Style Attire
Brides have many options now for black wedding dresses in satins and laces that set the tone perfectly. The black gown took hold in a more mainstream way over the last several years as brides want less traditional weddings. Accessories like a black veil, black lace gloves, chokers, and a black diamond ring are perfect ways to tie the look together.
Groom and groomsmen attire typically features darker colors like black, charcoal, or burgundy. Black velvet and top hats fit the gothic vibe.
Bridesmaids can choose from deep colors like dark red and wine, deep purples and emerald green. Laces, velvet, corsets, and Victorian-inspired clothing are details that fit the goth wedding theme.
Gothic Floral Arrangements
Think black roses, black calla lilies, dark red roses, thistles, and deep-colored blooms. Make sure to speak to your florist to see what is in season for your wedding date. Ask about dried and preserved flowers to get lots of dark tones and richer colors in your wedding bouquet.
Gothic Wedding Decor
Romantic Goth wedding decor can include candles and candelabras, wrought iron, fortune teller crystal balls, lanterns, and other elements that give a sense of mystery. Candles and dim lighting enhance the moody atmosphere. For centerpieces, think classic elements like stone and wood slabs with old books on top, crystal candle holders with black and red taper candles, colored glassware, etc.
The Music
Gothic weddings may feature dark and atmospheric music. Live bands or solo musicians with a darker aesthetic can add to the ambiance. There are a number of examples to listen to on YouTube that can give you a great idea for the music to be played, especially for your first dance, on your big day.
Gothic Elegance In The Ceremony
The ceremony may incorporate elements such as vows inspired by Gothic literature, readings from works like Edgar Allan Poe, Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, or even a unity ceremony with black or red candles. The “til death do us part” can come into play even stronger at a gothic wedding.
Food and Wedding Cake
The menu can include dark and elegant dishes, such as black pasta, skewers, red velvet cakes, and deep-colored cocktails. A gothic or vintage wedding cake design may incorporate tiers of varying dark hues, lace patterns, or motifs such as tombstones or skeletons cake toppers. Red velvet cake would be a perfect option. Check out Pinterest for some amazing and creative ideas for your cake and treats.
Photography
A Gothic wedding photographer will capture the dramatic and moody elements of the day, often using artistic lighting and editing to enhance the overall atmosphere. Imagine: A twilight ceremony in the cemetary with misty fog, a black dress, bouquet of black and deep red roses, a dark velvet tuxedo – aesthetic nailed!
Gothic Wedding Favors
Wedding favors could include items like gothic-themed soaps, love “potions”, black candles, or custom-made trinkets that match the theme.
Wedding Guests Attire
Some couples encourage their guests to embrace the theme and dress in Gothic or Victorian-inspired dress code. Black lace details in a dress and pure black suit, shirt, and tie for the men and perfectly matched for gothic-themed wedding guest attire.
Personal Touches
The most important thing is making sure to incorporate personal elements that reflect the couple’s love story or interests can make the Gothic wedding unique and meaningful. Gothic weddings can range from subtly dark, moody, and romantic to more overtly gothic and macabre. The key is to embrace your own style and preferences while incorporating elements of darkness, elegance, and drama into your special day!