Planning A Black-Tie Wedding: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a black-tie wedding can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can create a memorable and elegant event. From sending out formal invitations with a clear dress code to choosing a seasonal and local menu, there are many aspects to consider. The key to a successful black-tie wedding is attention to detail, ensuring that everything from the entertainment to the seating arrangements is carefully planned. With the right guidance and preparation, you can make your black-tie wedding dreams a reality.

Invitations: formal, curly cursive fonts, with a dress code included

When it comes to invitations, you'll want to set the tone for your black-tie wedding. Invitations should be formal and elegant, with curly cursive fonts. You can choose from a variety of scripts, such as calligraphy or Sherif. The font colours and backgrounds should complement each other, with one primary colour balancing the presence of other colours.

It's important to include a dress code on your invitations to ensure your guests know what to expect and can plan their outfits accordingly. The dress code can be placed on the lower left or right side of the invitation, or centred at the bottom.

For a black-tie wedding, guests are typically expected to wear formal attire. For men, this means a tuxedo with a black tie or bow tie, patent leather shoes, and any standard tux accessories. If they don't own a tuxedo, renting one is a great option. For non-binary guests, a formal floor-length gown, creative suit or dinner jacket (with or without a tie), or a sleek jumpsuit in a luxe material or jewel tone are all appropriate choices. Women can wear a full-length dress or a women's tuxedo, and pair their look with heels, dressy flats, or loafers.

Be sure to send out save-the-dates well in advance, especially for a black-tie wedding, so your guests have plenty of time to plan and make any necessary arrangements.

Dress code: tuxedos for men, evening dresses for women

When it comes to the dress code for your black-tie wedding, it's important to be clear with your guests about what you expect them to wear. You can include the dress code on the lower left or right side of the invitation, or at the bottom centre.

For men, a black-tie wedding means it's time to wear a tuxedo. If you don't own one, you can rent one, along with all the standard tux accessories. Add a pair of patent leather shoes, and you're good to go.

For women, a black-tie dress code means a full-length dress or a women's tuxedo. Formal jumpsuits are also an option. Heels, dressy flats, or loafers are all suitable footwear choices. It's important to note that short and mid-length dresses may not be the best fit for a black-tie event.

If you identify as non-binary, you can stick to a formal option such as a floor-length gown, a creative suit, or a dinner jacket (with or without a tie) in a luxe material. A sleek jumpsuit in a jewel tone is also a great choice.

Save-the-dates: send well in advance

It's important to send out save-the-date cards well in advance for a black-tie wedding, so that your guests can plan accordingly and make any necessary arrangements. This is especially important if your guests will need to travel to attend your wedding, or if they will need to rent a tuxedo. You should also set a reasonable RSVP deadline, typically four to five weeks before the wedding, to give you ample time to finalise catering and seating arrangements.

The invitations for a black-tie wedding are formal and often feature curly cursive fonts, such as script or calligraphy. The font colours and backgrounds usually contain one primary colour to balance the presence of other colours. The dress code can be included on the lower left or right side of the invitation, or in the bottom centre.

You may also want to include extra entertainment factors to delight your guests, such as a photobooth, a live wedding artist, a late-night snack or glowing elements to round out the party.

RSVP deadline: typically four to five weeks before the wedding

Planning a black-tie wedding involves a lot of considerations, from the invitations to the menu, service, and more. It's important to set a reasonable RSVP deadline, typically four to five weeks before the wedding. This gives you ample time to finalise catering and seating arrangements.

Invitations

Black-tie wedding invitations are formal and usually feature curly cursive fonts, such as script or calligraphy. The font colours and backgrounds typically include one primary colour to balance the presence of other colours. The dress code can be included on the lower left or right side of the invitation, or at the bottom centre.

Dress Code

For men, a black-tie dress code typically means wearing a tuxedo with a black tie or bow tie and patent leather shoes. If you don't own a tuxedo, you can rent one, along with all the standard tux accessories. For women, a black-tie dress code suggests a full-length dress or a women's tuxedo. Formal jumpsuits are also an option.

Entertainment

A black-tie wedding can include extra entertainment factors to delight your guests. This could be a photobooth, a live wedding artist, a late-night snack, glowing elements, or anything else that fits your vision.

Entertainment: consider a photobooth, a live wedding artist, or late-night snacks

Planning a black-tie wedding is no easy feat, but there are some simple ways to ensure your guests are entertained. One idea is to set up a photobooth, which can double as a wedding favour. This is a fun way to get your guests interacting and provides them with a memento of your special day. Another option is to hire a live wedding artist to paint your wedding day as it unfolds. This unique touch will leave your guests with a lasting impression and a beautiful keepsake. If you're looking for something a little more low-key, consider providing late-night snacks to keep the party going. Whether it's a food truck, a dessert bar, or a simple spread, your guests are sure to appreciate the extra fuel for the dance floor.

When it comes to entertainment, the possibilities are endless. You could also incorporate games or a dance-off to get your guests moving and having fun. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your personality and style as a couple. Remember, it's your day, so feel free to get creative and think outside the box!

Frequently asked questions