Less May Be More
Gold accents are striking, so there is no need to have them in excess. Tasteful, carefully appointed items are what you are after. Here are some examples of how to use a gold wedding accessory for your celebration.
- Trim your guest book in gold ribbon and have your guests sign it with a simple gold plated pen.
- Use gold trimmed flutes for the champagne toast.
- Highlight the table settings with gold cloth napkins and gold colored candles (this will look especially lovely against a solid colored tablecloth, such as red).
- For a more streamlined look, use gold tablecloths with white china.
- Use gold rimmed china and gold colored napkin holders.
- Highlight gold tones in your flower arrangements by using gold vases or gold candelabra in the center of each table.
Design Elements
There are also ways to incorporate gold into your ceremony. The most obvious way is for your bridal party to sport the color. For example, your bridesmaids could carry bouquets wrapped in gold organza ribbon, or your flower girl could scatter gold colored flower petals when she walks down the aisle, or your ring bearer could present the wedding bands on a gold satin ring pillow.
The color gold is often paired with another color for dramatic effect. For example, gold and white offers a traditional and elegant look, while gold and red creates an inviting and cozy vibe. For a real party feeling, pair up orange and gold, or pink and gold.
All That Glitters
Last but not least, you and your groom can exchange gold wedding rings. But before you choose your rings, you should know a few basic facts about this precious metal. Remember the saying "all that glitters is not gold"? This is very true, and it will serve you well to know what to look for when choosing your special rings.
While 24 karat gold is highly valued, it is not the best material for a wedding ring. Despite its shine and the fact that it does not tarnish, it is soft and pliable, and ultimately a little vulnerable for eveyday wear.
In turn, gold is combined with other metals to make it more durable and to alter the color. The standard combinations are 18 karat, 14 karat, and 10 karat, all of which are available in a white or yellow color. White gold tends to be stronger and last longer. So when considering your most important gold accessory, make sure it will last forever.