Cast a Golden Glow on Your Wedding

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Display of multiple colored wraps

Gold is a truly evocative decor element. It immediately speaks opulence, glamour, and wealth—whether as a color or as the actual metal. Even a hint of gold is enough to imbue an article of clothing, a piece of jewelry, a decorative item, even a location with an image of luxury. An excess of gold, on the other hand, can result in the impression of ostentation, bordering on gaudiness. Thus, a modest and tasteful selection of gold-laden elements can create a wedding that looks and feels luxurious, without having guests think they have wandered into King Midas’ realm. Besides, beyond lending a gleam to any occasion, gold also plays a significant part in the wedding celebrations of various cultures.

Gold in Chinese and Indian Wedding Celebrations

In many Chinese weddings, the celebration would not be complete without the color gold prominently displayed throughout the wedding reception. The décor at these weddings is characterized by rich swirls of red and gold, as usually seen in banners wishing the newlyweds good fortune in their lives together. The altar at the wedding ceremony also features statues crafted out of gold, with figures such as golden dragons perched on top of pillars and carved on the walls.

Hindu weddings are similarly festive and lavish, with decor typified by richly ornamented details not normally seen in Western celebrations. Again, gold is used generously in every significant aspect of the wedding—being considered an auspicious symbol of abundant wealth and prosperity. Thus, the typical color scheme for a Hindu wedding is predominantly scarlet and gold. The bride, for instance, is dressed in an extravagant red, gold, and white sari; her veil trimmed in gold and her arms adorned by shimmering gold bracelets. The groom is normally clad in a white shirt embellished as well with gold beadwork. Even the flower arrangements and the garlands worn by the couple at the wedding feature this color.

Celebrations can echo these Chinese and Hindu wedding traditions through décor elements that tastefully incorporate gold—both for its visual impact and its auspicious significance. Thus, the gleam of gold may be brought to table settings and centerpieces, to dinnerware and table linens, as well as to special mementos that will remind guests of the elegant occasion.

Adorn a Table With the Glitter of Gold

To start, a simple white tablecloth with gold scalloped edges provides a backdrop. Against this elegant canvas, a golden candelabra bearing white taper candles or a gold oil lamp may be chosen as a centerpiece for each table. While this may seem to be a traditional centerpiece, it lends an air of romance and elegance to the scene. The place setting can feature shining porcelain plates with dainty gold patterns lining the edge. Each plate can be topped by a napkin of gold brocade, tied into a scroll with a silken gold braid embellished with crystals and tassels. Gold-rimmed wineglasses can also add sparkle to each table, while lending a luxurious look when serving up a vintage selection reserved for special occasions.

Combine Rich Colors for Extra Luxury

Gold complements practically any color. However, to achieve a totally luxurious effect, gold must be paired with other equally-rich colors as well as subtler hues which are able to temper its dazzle.

A color palette with gold as its base ideally includes warm contrasting colors that can offset it. Combining deep red with gold, for example, creates an opulent look—much like that of the capes and crowns of royalty. However, too-rich colors may appear overwhelming. Therefore, gold is best neutralized by combinations of softer colors such as olive green and ivory, or brown and red. Such colors can also be used for full effect in table details such as the guest favors.

Give Away Gleaming Favors

Gold frames for guests
Gold frames with delicate carved borders double as eye-catching place card holders as well as party favors for guests to take home and treasure.

Even keepsakes of the party can be painted with a touch of gold. A gold place frame initially functions as an attractive table accent for a setting that discreetly uses golden elements. It can also serve as a luxurious memento for guests containing snippets of romantic poetry, specially written notes of gratitude, or photographs of the newlyweds. Their brilliant gold finish is striking against practically any tablecloth color, plus they can be embellished with creative accents. For example, a brown satin ribbon can be tied around one corner of the frame, or a red rose in full bloom may also be laid at the base of the frame to set off the intricate patterns on its border.

Chocolate gold coins remain a popular favor for guests because of their auspicious significance. Certainly suitable for a gold-themed wedding celebration, these coins may be presented in ivory boxes wrapped in shimmering deep red and gold organza. These colors have a special significance for a wedding, as red is a symbol of happiness while gold represents good fortune and wealth. A good opportunity to use this option would be during a wedding taking place on August 8, 2008, an auspicious date for the Chinese.

Something more delicate can also be chosen in place of containers in bold colors. For example, mints placed in a fine porcelain box with gold trim also make delightful little treats, with the container staying true to the golden color scheme of the event. Thoughtful items may likewise be tucked into ecru silk pouches—the simple elegance of ecru being a perfect complement to the brilliance of gilt-colored fabrics and decorations.

Gold definitely brings an aura of richness and luxury to any wedding. A great eye for color and design, guided by tasteful restraint, can create a setting where gold casts an elegant glow over the festivities without outshining the reason for the occasion.