The other day, I met with a friend and we were discussing the beautiful inspiration boards I see featured on so many wedding blogs. I got to thinking, “What is an Inspiration Board”?
Well, it's anything you want it to be! But, basically it's a photo collage that inspires you, drives you, helps you reach your goals, keeps you focused, organizes, makes you happy or just makes you laugh!
I look at it as a small work of art made up of fabulous wedding items that link incredibly together.
So today, I decided to create my first inspiration board. Below are the 4 steps that made this happen.
Step 1: Think of a Theme
Think of something—no matter how abstract—that you’re drawn to or which holds a special meaning. It could be a wedding location, song, food, painting, anything. I decided to go with an Urban Wedding Theme. It's been something I've wanted to do for a while.
Step 2: Collect Inspiration
This is the fun part. Over the course of a week or two, start collecting anything that makes you think of your focus point and put it into a little folder or envelope. You can even go to Google image searches and stroll through sites like Amazon, Overstock, Crate & Barrel, etc. If you get a catalog in the mail, cut out related pieces that you're drawn to.
Once you’ve got a nice little collection, lay them all out in front of you. My collection is small, but it will do.
Step 3: Focus
Now that you have it all right in your face, it’s a lot easier to start answering some questions about your theme that you can translate into something much more tangible. The questions I've come up with are a great way to put a spotlight on what you’re really drawn to—and what might be perfect for a wedding!
Is there a color story that pops out at you? With my small little collection of inspiration, the color story is Red, Black and White. These colors will work with everything from invitations and flowers to suits and table decor. Bright lights, big wedding! A Red, Black and White palette blends classic elegance with dramatic fashion - absolutely perfect for a downtown, big city lights wedding.
Are there any textures or fabrics that show up again and again? Satin shows up a lot in the pictures I collected!
Is there anything else that stands out? I can’t help but notice the crystals in the bouquet, the bride’s dress and floral centrepiece. Also, when you think of red, you have to have red roses. Lastly, to add that “pop” the Damask on the Save the Date and wedding cake really stands out and pulls the solid Red, Black and Whites all together.
Is there anything you feel is missing from your collection of inspiration? When I think of Red, Black and White, I think of GLAMOUR, CLASSIC AND ELEGANCE. Adding some bright lights and maybe even a black or white city skyline on the invitations may be nice. Also, I would probably drape some light weight fabric in the ceiling. Even with a relatively small list of focus points like this one, you can gain a lot of direction.
Step 4: Shop til You Drop
Here's another the fun part, finding "The Dress". The first thing the bride should do is look for a wedding gown. Try to find one that is reminiscent of the theme.
So. What do you think? I always thought creating an inspiration board would be hard work, but it wasn't too difficult or time consuming? I think that creating an inspiration board is a great way to help you and your clients get focused! Stay tuned for my next inspiration board. I can't wait!
Beverly Harris Weddings & Events
(310) 487-9698
