Ideas

Get Ready for the Masquerade! Themed and Costume Wedding Ideas

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Happy October! When it comes to weddings, we love a good theme—and there is no better month to celebrate thematic matrimony than the month that brings us pumpkin spice everything, bobbing for apples, and, of course, Halloween. While we know this isn’t for every couple, couples who enjoy a good amount of cosplay will find it hard to resist slipping on here are some of our favorite ideas for a masquerade wedding... Masquerade Themed and Costume Wedding Ideas Photo by: Wedding Snapper on Well Groomed via Lover.ly 1. BLAST FROM THE PAST. Choosing a specific decade to emulate is one of the easiest ways for guests to get into the spirit. Whether you choose a 1950s rockabilly theme or a 1920s Gatsby-inspired affair (like Snooki's bridal shower), specific decades will give guests lots of inspiration. 2. MARDI GRAS. Of all costume weddings, this one may be the most popular (when Adrienne Curry married Christopher Knight, it was a "Phantom of the Opera" masquerade!) but it’s a classic for a reason! And you don’t need to get married in New Orleans to make this work; we love the idea of using specific decor and colors (think purples and golds!) and a great New Orleans-style band to make this setting sing. Pass out masks at the reception entrance (but perhaps leave the beads for the after-party). 3. STAR WARS. May the force be with you on your wedding day! More and more couples are working the famed movies into their nuptials (and we can't forget Liz Lemon's perfect "princess" wedding on "30 Rock"). So don your best Leia updo or R2-D2 outfit and invite guests to join you in a galaxy far, far away. 4. BARBIE. Barbie is having a moment. After all, she's killing it on Instagram and has been traveling the globe for various fashion week events. This theme is for the girly girl, but if you’re willing to go the magnificent extra Millecent, we suggest pink favors, asking your guests to arrive in Barbie-inspired gear, and vintage Prom Date boardgames set up at each table. Bonus points: play "Barbie Girl" when it's time for your guests to hit the dance floor. 5. SPORTS TEAMS. Many couples struggle with college football stealing some of their fall wedding’s attention. But as the saying goes: if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! While it may not be appropriate for the ceremony, perhaps you make the reception a tad more rah-rah-rah than romantic. Suggest to guests bringing their favorite alumnus apparel and set up a hotdog and tailgate-themed station next to a latop where you live-stream the big game. So, how does a couple relay a theme to all guests with taste and tact? Here are a few pointers to keep in mind... - Clearly state the theme on your wedding invitations and wedding website, and include costume suggestions. That said, make sure guests know that their presence—and not their outfit—is the most important thing. - Be prepared! Chances are, some guests will either forget or forgo costumes (and then regret it), so hit a thrift store and fill a trunk with extra costumes and accessories that guests can throw on at the party. (If you plan to go this route, mention that you'll have the items available on the big day on your wedding website.) - Don’t put the "cost in costume." Make sure the costumes you're requesting can be created or acquired inexpensively. - Give stipulations; if flamboyant costumes are not appropriate for the ceremony venue, invite guests to don fun accessories at the reception. - Personally ask close friends and family members to wear costumes, and ask them to encourage others to do so if asked about it (Because we guarantee that your aunt is going to ask your mom if they really have to wear a costume.) - A photo booth is an absolute must! - If you don't want to go all in with a costumed wedding, try it for your engagement photos, wedding shower, or bachelorette. Share your favorite wedding themes in the comments, Loverlies, and check out some of our favorite costume party inspiration on Lover.ly!  
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