Wedding Colours – Using A Tonal Colour Scheme

When you are doing your wedding planning, choosing your wedding colours is one of the first steps.  You can choose tonal colours, complementary colours, harmonious colours or triadic colours.  A tonal colour scheme means that you are using the same colour in different tones.  This is sometimes referred to as a monochromatic colour scheme.  One elegant example of a tonal colour scheme for weddings is using white tones—this includes the brightest white to the creamiest ivory.  Your choice of wedding colours will set the tone for the style of wedding you will be creating.   

The secret to creating an elegant tonal colour scheme is the use of texture.  Texture can be described as the actual surface of a design or pattern, or how the pattern or design contributes to the visual appearance of the overall look.  A heavy checked weave in a simple white tablecloth, for example, will give added texture to the decor.  Many reception venues use damask tablecloths because of the subtle texture in the design.  When decorating a room, the use of tulle or sinamay mesh in your chosen colour will add another layer of texture in a cost effective way. 

Look for ways to create texture by using patterns, shapes and lines in your chosen materials—cloth, paper, flowers, etc.  The fluffy texture of large white peonies, next to the simple grace of white calla lilies is another way to create texture in your flower arrangements.  Layering visual patterns in the same or similar colour tones is the secret to creating a rich and elegant look using a tonal colour scheme.