Fairytale Weddings: Making Fantasy A Reality

A fairytale wedding is a magical and enchanting affair, often inspired by childhood stories and fairytales. It evokes a sense of romance and whimsy, with an emphasis on creating a dreamy atmosphere. While there is no one-size-fits-all definition, a fairytale wedding typically involves creating a regal and elegant setting, reminiscent of a fairy tale princess. This can include elements such as a dramatic dress, an enchanting venue, over-the-top florals, and romantic lighting. The colour palette is usually soft pastels, calm hues, and metallics, with an emphasis on gold and rose gold. Fairytale weddings also often feature horse-drawn carriages, lavish cakes, and monogrammed details.

Choose a fairytale-like venue

A fairytale wedding is a magical affair, and the venue is a key element in setting the tone for the day. Here are some ideas for choosing a fairytale-like venue for your special day:

The Castle

A castle is the quintessential fairytale wedding venue. It evokes a sense of royalty, history, and symbolism. Whether it's a grand castle with sweeping grounds or a more intimate castle with a mystical vibe, your guests will feel like they've stepped into a storybook. Some castles even offer all-inclusive packages, making them a convenient choice. Imagine exchanging your vows in a castle's grand ballroom or having your first dance under the stars on the castle's manicured lawns.

Some castle venues to consider:

• Oheka Castle, Huntington, New York: Features Versailles-like gardens and can accommodate up to 400 guests.
• Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina: A French Renaissance-style chateau with both indoor and outdoor spaces, including gorgeous gardens and a glass Conservatory. Can host up to 400 guests.
• Sands Point Preserve, Port Washington, New York: Located on the Guggenheim Estate, this venue offers opulent Gilded Age vibes and stunning views of the Long Island Sound. Can accommodate up to 350 guests.
• Thornewood Castle, Lakewood, Washington: A Tudor Gothic-style castle offering both indoor and outdoor options, including an English Garden and a Grand Hall.

The Garden or Forest Venue

If you're looking for a more natural setting, a garden or forest venue can be a perfect choice for your fairytale wedding. Imagine exchanging your vows under a flower-draped arch or amidst towering trees. The natural backdrop will provide a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere.

When choosing a garden or forest venue, consider:

• The size of the space: Ensure it can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
• Lighting: Fairy lights, lanterns, and candles can add to the magical atmosphere.
• Weather contingencies: Have a plan in case of unexpected rain or windy conditions.

Equestrian Estate

For an extra touch of fairytale magic, consider an equestrian estate. Horses add an element of mystique and elegance to your special day. Imagine arriving at your wedding venue in a horse-drawn carriage or having a horse-drawn carriage as your getaway car. It will surely be a memorable experience for you and your guests.

A Hall with Fairy Tale Charm

If a castle or outdoor venue is not feasible, you can opt for a hall that exudes fairy tale charm. Look for venues with embellished details, mirrors, and chandeliers. These decorative elements will create a royal and magical atmosphere.

When choosing a hall, consider:

• The decor: Ensure the venue's decor aligns with your fairytale theme.
• Lighting: Once again, fairy lights, lanterns, and candles can transform a space and create a romantic ambiance.
• Size: Select a hall that is proportionate to your guest list to avoid a crowded or sparse feeling.

Disney's Magic Kingdom

For the ultimate fairy tale experience, consider Disney's Magic Kingdom as your wedding venue. With various locations within the park, you can create a magical and memorable celebration. Exchange your vows in front of the iconic Cinderella Castle or within the enchanting East Plaza Garden. The possibilities for a fairy tale-inspired wedding are endless at this unique venue.

In conclusion, when choosing a fairytale-like venue, consider your desired atmosphere, guest list size, and unique elements that will make your day magical and memorable. Whether it's a grand castle, a whimsical garden, or a charming hall, focus on creating an enchanting environment that reflects your personality and style.

Incorporate flowers

Flowers are an integral part of a fairytale wedding. They are key to creating a magical and romantic atmosphere, and there are many ways to incorporate them into your special day.

Choose a dramatic floral centrepiece

For a fairytale wedding, opt for large, dramatic floral centrepieces. Oversized vases, tall candelabras, and crystal-studded canopies will add to the magical scene. Choose elevated arrangements in sky-high vases to create an imposing look. Opt for large bunches of dramatic florals including pampas grass, long-stemmed hydrangeas, and gladioli. Use these flowers to decorate the wedding aisle as well as the tables.

Flower crowns

If you're having a forest wedding or a boho outdoor wedding, have the flower girl and bridesmaids don flower crowns.

Natural backdrops

If you don't have an unlimited flower budget, choose a natural tree arch or flower-lined walkway for the wedding ceremony. A park blooming with wildflowers or a park with leafy trees lining the path are also wonderful options.

Whimsical wedding flowers

Add whimsical touches to your wedding flowers with fairy lights, paper lanterns, and outdoor lanterns.

Bouquets

Carry a bouquet of colourful wildflowers or add gold baby's breath to your bouquet to pump up the drama.

Monogrammed flowers

Add your monogram or family crest to your bouquet wrap.

Create a magical atmosphere

A fairytale wedding is a magical affair, and the right atmosphere can be created with careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some ideas to create a magical atmosphere for a fairytale wedding:

Choose an Enchanted Location

The venue is key to setting the tone for a fairytale wedding. An ancient castle with its stone architecture and wrought-iron accents will provide a dramatic backdrop for the ceremony and beautiful photo opportunities. Alternatively, a wedding in a forest, by a lake, on an exotic beach, or in a beautiful garden can also create an enchanting atmosphere.

Dramatic Dress and Accessories

The wedding dress is a crucial element in creating a magical atmosphere. A dramatic, floor-length ball gown with a sweeping train will make the bride feel like a princess. Tulle and lace add an elegant touch, and a tiara or a jewel-studded veil will complete the fairytale look. Glass slipper-inspired heels are another fun way to pay homage to the theme.

Magical Lighting

Whimsical lighting can transform a venue and create a romantic atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, and candles can be used to adorn the wedding aisle and reception tables. Fairy lights, paired with silk and satin drapery, add a soft glow and an elegant touch to the dining tables.

Over-the-Top Florals

Abundant and dramatic florals will take the fairytale wedding to the next level. Elevated arrangements in tall vases, such as large bunches of pampas grass, long-stemmed hydrangeas, and gladiolas, can be used to decorate the wedding aisle and tables. A flower-lined walkway or a natural tree arch for the ceremony will also create a magical setting.

Regal Tablescapes

The tablescape is an opportunity to add magical and elegant touches to the wedding. Gold, black, or rose gold cutlery and dinnerware will create a regal atmosphere. Oversized vases, tall candelabras, and crystal-studded canopies will add to the enchantment. Romantic chandeliers or draped greenery above each table will also enhance the fairytale theme.

Magical Details

Fairytale weddings are all about the magical details. A horse-drawn carriage, monogrammed napkins, and a custom wedding cake with jewels and gemstones will all add to the enchantment. Incorporating fairytale-inspired elements, such as glass slippers, roses, and scrolls, will also help to create a magical and romantic atmosphere.

Add a royal touch

A fairytale wedding is a magical affair, and adding a royal touch will make it even more so. Here are some ideas to make your special day feel like a royal occasion:

Venue

The venue is key to setting the tone for your wedding. A castle is the obvious choice for a royal-themed wedding, with its stone architecture and wrought-iron accents providing a perfect backdrop for your photos. If you can't find a historical castle, there are venues built in a castle-like style that will fit the bill. Alternatively, a grand estate, mansion, or villa will also give your wedding a regal feel.

Decor

When it comes to decor, think opulent and elegant. Here are some ideas to add a royal touch:

• Gold is a must for a royal wedding. Use gold cutlery and dinnerware, and incorporate gold accents in your decor, such as gold chargers, candle holders, and vases.
• Candelabras and crystal chandeliers will add a touch of royalty to your tables and create a romantic atmosphere.
• A dramatic, oversized wedding arch filled with greenery and flowers will make a grand statement and provide a perfect backdrop for photos.
• Hang string lights and lanterns to create a magical ambiance.
• Use lush blooms and greenery throughout your decor, including in your centrepieces and bouquet.
• A custom monogrammed dance floor will add a regal touch and make you feel like royalty.
• A horse-drawn carriage will make a grand statement and is a perfect way to make your entrance or exit.
• A Champagne tower is a regal addition to your celebration and will impress your guests.

Attire and Accessories

Your wedding attire and accessories can also reflect the royal theme:

• A dramatic, floor-length ball gown will make you feel like a princess. Consider a dress with a long train for added opulence.
• A tiara or crystal crown will complete your royal look.
• Glass slipper-inspired heels are a fun way to pay homage to the fairytale theme.
• For the groom, a custom cape or elaborate mask can add a regal touch.

Food and Drink

Even your food and drink choices can reflect the royal theme:

• Serve a catered meal on fine dinnerware that matches your colour palette.
• Offer traditional French food and drinks, such as macarons, champagne, and other delicacies.
• A croquembouche is a French dessert that will add a touch of Paris to your wedding and offer a unique alternative to a traditional wedding cake.

By incorporating these ideas, you can create a fairytale wedding with a royal touch that will make you and your guests feel like royalty.

Use fairy lights

Fairy lights are a must-have for any fairytale wedding. They add a whimsical, magical touch to the decor and help set a romantic mood. Here are some ideas for incorporating fairy lights into your special day:

Drape Them Like Curtains

Drape fairy lights from the ceiling to create a sparkling, romantic canopy over your reception tables. This will make your guests feel like they are dining under the stars. For an extra touch of glamour, pair the fairy lights with silk or satin drapery.

Create a Whimsical Ceremony Setup

Combine fairy lights with bohemian lanterns and hang them from the ceiling to frame your ceremony space. This unique lighting display will add a touch of whimsy and magic to your wedding ceremony.

Make a Grand Entrance

Welcome your guests to your wedding with a spectacular entrance featuring a shimmering tunnel of fairy lights. They will be sure to feel like they are stepping into a fairytale as they enter your venue.

Enhance the Natural Beauty of Your Venue

If you are getting married outdoors, take advantage of the natural beauty of your venue by wrapping trees or wooden structures in fairy lights. This will add a subtle glow to your surroundings and create a magical atmosphere.

Add a Touch of Magic to Your Centerpieces

Instead of traditional table centerpieces, opt for romantic chandeliers or drape greenery and fairy lights above each table. This will add a unique and whimsical touch to your tablescape and impress your guests.

Light Up the Dance Floor

Create a magical atmosphere on the dance floor by hanging fairy lights or creating a canopy of lights overhead. Your guests will feel like they are dancing under the stars, adding a touch of romance to your special day.

Get Creative with DIY Decor

Get creative with DIY decor by filling ice cream cones or paper lanterns with fairy lights and flowers. This unique and quirky lighting display will add a charming touch to your fairytale wedding.

Set the Mood with Romantic Lighting

Whether you are having an indoor or outdoor wedding, fairy lights can help set the mood and create a romantic atmosphere. Hang them from the ceiling, wrap them around trees or pillars, or drape them like curtains to add a soft, warm glow to your venue.

Frequently asked questions