Whatever month your wedding or party is in, wherever the location, it could be indoors or outdoors, theme-in your event will not only add magic to the affair but will help create a one of a kind event that will leave a lasting impression on your guests minds.

As seen on my dream wedding Elijah and Joy choose to have a musical theme and incorporated personalized dance and music performances. Elijah performed a song and took time to learn to play the saxophone just to perform on the day. As for Joy she performed a special dance routine with the bridesmaid at the reception. At the end of the day they were both fulfilled and happy about the decision.

In Kenya today, couples preparing to host a wedding, when asked about a theme most present a color scheme.

Let us start out by not confusing the two.

A theme should be an idea, a motif to which you can plan all aspects of your event around. It helps create a sense of continuity throughout all aspects of your event. This is not to say however that a colour couldn’t be your theme but if it is, try sticking to one. Four colors is a color scheme, one is a theme.

Why theme weddings & parties?

It helps create a definitive event and also ensures that your personal style can be reflected in the occasion. I encourage you to think outside the box. Take your guests on a journey. Use your theme as a motif that will be repeated throughout all areas of your event, from the décor to the food, the clothes and the music.

How can I go about coming up with a theme?

Inspiration for a theme can come from anywhere, anything as vague as a vase you love to your favorite movie, a country you would give an arm and a leg to visit to your cultural roots. Once you’ve found your theme, make a list of all aspects of your event and decide which you can tune into your chosen theme.

A quick example:

If you love salsa, you could design your event around a Latin theme by incorporating the following into your planning:

• Printers: Your invitations and RSVP cards could be fan shaped and with red ink, probably with a silhouette of a couple doing ‘the forbidden dance’. Programmes could carry the same silhouette
• Clothes: Could dress the men up in matador style clothes and women in white frilly blouses with long, flowing, brightly colored skirts. Flowers in the hair are a definite yes
• Decor: Filled with vibrant colors such as reds, yellows and, for contrast, black. Something creative like a walkway of Red Hot Chilli Peppers could even cut down your décor costs
• Food: Go Spanish or Mexican

• Music: Try salsa/flamenco
• Take the bridal party for salsa lessons and invite a salsa instructor to your party to help encourage the guests to party

 

Of course you can’t cover all aspects of your event such as rings but the more you do, the clearer the theme. Something to note: A special cocktail is a festive way to launch a reception-or caps it off. Pick one that adds a splash to your decor and fits into your theme. Over the next few pages we shall give you ideas on how to go about executing a theme event. We shall give you examples of themes and help you find sources for everything you require to effectively carry it out.