Okay, so get ready to dive into wedding dress inspiration.
Wedding dress inspiration.
Yeah, but here's the twist.
We're getting it from classic literature.
Oh wow, that sounds pretty unique.
Right, our source is this blog post from a bridal shop.
A bridal shop.
Yeah, in Pennsylvania.
Interesting.
I mean, you wouldn't think.
I know, you wouldn't think a bridal shop blog
would be talking about like
Edgar Allen Poe and wedding dresses.
No, not really.
But it's actually full of creative ideas.
It really shows you that inspiration can come from anywhere.
I guess so, yeah.
So they start off with Edgar Allen Poe
and naturally they suggest this Gothic romance
and mystery aesthetic for all the Poe fans out there.
Oh, that's kind of cool.
I mean, it makes sense when you think about Poe's work,
right, like all the darkness, the mystery.
Yeah, yeah.
That kind of macabre feel.
Totally, and so to bring that into wedding style,
they suggest those Victorian silhouettes,
dramatic embellishments.
Like what?
Like capes and veils, you know.
Oh, okay, yeah.
Very Morticia Adams.
Uh-huh, I get it.
And get this, they even suggest two black wedding dresses.
Black.
Black, the Sofia Tolli Rebecca and the Morilee Rosa.
Wow, bold choices.
Right, both of them have all these intricate details,
like lace, roses, even a bit of sparkle.
I wonder if people actually go for black wedding dresses.
I don't know, it's pretty daring.
But I mean, black isn't always just about mourning, right?
Yeah, true.
Especially with Poe.
In his work, black often represents something deeper,
right, like the subconscious.
Yeah, the hidden depths.
Exactly.
So maybe choosing a black wedding dress
could be a way to express that, that sense of mystery,
turn the whole traditional white dress on its head.
Ooh, that's a really interesting way to look at it.
I was just thinking it was about being edgy.
Could be both.
Ha ha ha, true, true.
And then to complete the Poe theme,
they suggest favors like black votive candles,
little bottles of dark rum, and skeleton keys.
Skeleton keys.
I don't know about that.
Yeah, the skeleton keys are a little much for me too.
But the candles and rum, that's cool.
Yeah, I like that idea of incorporating
those little details to create that whole Poe atmosphere.
It's like you're stepping into one of his stories.
Exactly.
Okay, so moving on from the darkness of Poe,
we're gonna jump into the glitz and glamor
of F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Oh, okay.
With a roaring 20s glamor aesthetic.
So we're talking flapper dresses, feathers, all that jazz.
Uh-huh, pretty much.
But before we get into that,
I think it's important to remember
what was going on back then, like historically, you know?
Yeah, yeah.
I mean, the roaring 20s were a time of huge changes, right?
Like socially, culturally.
Also, women were breaking free
from all these traditional roles.
And their fashion really reflected that.
It did.
So the blog suggests slinky silhouettes,
vintage necklines, and tons of sparkle.
Very great Gatsby.
Oh, totally.
And you know, Fitzgerald's portrayal of the Jazz Age,
it's just so iconic.
It really is.
Like the opulence, the extravagance.
Yeah. Yeah.
And this aesthetic really captures that.
It does, that sense of exuberance, that liberation.
Totally.
Okay, for a specific dress,
they recommend the Evie Young Sydney.
It's kind of like a modern take on the classic sheath gown
with beautiful pearl detailing.
I can see it.
Very Gatsby-esque, right?
Yeah.
And they also suggest long silk gloves.
Oh, but like, how would you dance to Charleston in those?
Uh-huh, right.
Maybe fingerless gloves would be better.
Yeah, you gotta think about practicality.
You do.
Even when you're going for a whole theme.
Totally.
Okay, to like set the scene even more.
They suggest trifold invitations
with like velvet or feather accents.
Oh, fancy.
Yeah, to evoke that whole Gatsby-esque grandeur, you know.
I love it.
It's all about the details.
It is.
Speaking of details, let's move on to William Shakespeare.
Okay, Shakespeare.
And the romantic elegance aesthetic.
What comes to mind when you hear romantic elegance?
Let me see.
I'm thinking like flowing fabrics,
Renaissance details, floral accents,
like a Midsummer Nights dream vibe.
Exactly.
Shakespeare's works are full of romantic comedies
and tragedies, right?
They are.
With all those themes of love, passion, and fate,
and this aesthetic, it aims to capture
that ethereal romantic quality.
I get it.
So they recommend The Essence of Australia for a 29 gown.
Okay.
It's this A-line dream with botanical lace
and exposed corset bodice,
and get this detachable puff sleeves.
Wow, that sounds amazing.
It does.
It definitely has that Shakespearean heroine vibe,
but with a modern twist, you know.
Right.
It's so interesting how wedding dress styles
have changed so much since Shakespeare's time.
You really mean-
Like back then, those dresses were so structured,
so constricting.
They were, but today we have way more freedom.
You have to choose styles
that are both beautiful and comfortable.
Exactly.
Much better.
Okay, for food, they suggest all these
Elizabethan-inspired dishes.
Like what?
Like stuffed dates, figs, aged cheeses, and mulled wine.
Sounds pretty good to me.
Right, it's like my dream wedding feast.
It does sound delicious.
And it's another way to create that immersive experience.
Totally.
All right, last but not least, we have Ernest Hemingway,
the king of understated elegance.
In a good way, okay.
Now, when we talk about Hemingway,
both his writing and his personal life,
it's all about getting rid of the unnecessary
and focusing on the essentials.
Yeah, like clean lines, natural fabrics,
that kind of effortless sophistication.
Exactly, and the blog really emphasizes that
in their description of the understated elegance aesthetic.
Okay.
And they suggest the Gracie Rose 0350 dress.
It's a sheath style made of crepe fabric
with buttons down the back
and detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves.
Simple but nice.
Right, simple yet so chic.
And versatile with those detachable sleeves.
Oh, good point.
You can create two different looks with one gown.
Yeah, which I guess kind of reflects
Hemingway's own personality, right?
Ooh, I like that.
They also suggest wedding flowers,
like vibrant hibiscus and orcas.
Kind of like a Key West vibe.
Yeah, or more classic sunflowers, lavender and roses.
More of a Parisian feel.
Yeah, exactly.
It's a nice way to bring in elements of Hemingway's life,
his travels, into the wedding theme.
Yeah, I see that.
So we've covered four very different literary aesthetics.
We have.
The question is, how do you actually bring these themes
to life in a real wedding?
That's a good question.
Well, the blog gives some specific recommendations
on how to do just that.
For venue suggestions, they say.
A forest for Poe, a grand estate for Fitzgerald,
a garden or vineyard for Shakespeare,
and a coastal setting for Hemingway.
See, they've really thought this through.
But okay, let's say you're like, I love the Poe theme,
but a black wedding dress.
That's a little too much for me.
How else could you bring in those Gothic elements?
Well, there are tons of ways to adapt a theme
to your own style, right?
Like maybe instead of a black dress,
you go for a deep burgundy.
Oh.
Or a navy blue.
Yeah.
But with black lace accents.
I like that.
Or you could do a dramatic veil, but with a touch of sparkle.
Like that Sofia Tully Rebecca they mentioned.
Oh, yeah, that's a good idea.
It doesn't have to be all or nothing, you know?
Right, you can still get that Gothic feel
without going full Gothic bride.
Exactly.
And think about the decor too, right?
Oh, yeah, the decor.
Instead of bright colors,
you could use those dark, rich tones.
Right.
Like plum, emerald green, charcoal gray.
I love those colors.
Those are of tablecloths.
The flowers.
No, and candelabras?
Yes.
With dripping wax.
Ooh, that's so romantic, but with an edge.
Right.
And then for favors, maybe instead of skeleton keys,
you could do little vials of like Poe-inspired perfume.
Oh, that's cute.
Or custom-made bookmarks with quotes from his work.
Those are great ideas.
It's all about taking those key elements
and like making them your own.
Exactly.
Okay, so let's switch gears now
and go back to the roaring 20s.
Okay, back to Gatsby.
Yeah, F. Scott Fitzgerald.
All that glamor.
So let's say you're loving the glamor of that era,
but you're not really into the whole flapper look.
Yeah.
What other options are there?
Well, the 1920s were a really interesting time
for fashion, right?
Like Art Deco was having a huge influence.
Oh yeah, Art Deco.
With those geometric patterns, luxurious materials.
Yeah, yeah.
And that emphasis on sleek silhouettes.
So you could totally incorporate that.
You could, without looking like you stepped
out of a flapper party.
Right, so maybe like a satin slip dress.
Oh yeah.
With some geometric Art Deco beading.
That would be beautiful.
Or like a sleek jumpsuit, but with a beaded capelet.
Ooh, I like that.
Or even a simple gown,
but with a really dramatic cape.
Oh yeah, flowing cape.
And for a headpiece, maybe not a full on crystal crown,
but like a simple headband, a feather or a pearl accent.
I love those options.
And you know what else I think would be important
for a Gatsby themed wedding?
What?
Music.
Oh, absolutely, music would be huge for setting the mood.
Yeah, like a live jazz band.
Yes, that would transport everyone right back
to the roaring 20s.
I know, and maybe even a dance instructor.
To teach everyone the Charleston or the Foxtrot.
Oh, that would be amazing.
Now what about Shakespeare?
How can you create that romantic elegance
without going full Renaissance fare?
Well again, it's about adapting those key elements, right?
So instead of a really structured gown
with a corset and puff sleeves,
maybe you go for a flowing chiffon gown
with some delicate floral embroidery.
Beautiful, and instead of a flower crown,
maybe a loose braid, but with fresh flowers woven in.
That's so romantic.
Okay.
And it's still got that ethereal feel.
Right, but in a more understated way.
Exactly, and you know what else?
What?
Don't forget about Shakespeare's words.
Oh, his words.
Yeah, you could totally incorporate quotes from his plays.
Oh, that's such a good idea.
Like imagine calligraphic quotes.
Yeah.
On the table runners or the signage.
Love it.
Those little touches, you know.
They really bring the theme to life.
They do, and for favors,
you could give guests little sachets of lavender or rosemary,
like the herbs they used back then.
Oh, that's a nice touch.
Right.
Okay, lastly, let's talk about Hemingway.
Hemingway.
How do you capture that understated elegance
in a way that feels authentic, you know?
Well, with Hemingway, it's all about quality, not quantity.
Okay.
So choose a simple, well-cut gown made from natural fabric,
like that Gracie Rose dress,
and keep the accessories minimal.
Less is more.
Exactly, and for the decor, think natural elements.
Okay.
Like wood, stone, greenery.
Oh, okay.
So the rustic wooden tables.
Yeah.
With wildflowers and candlelight.
That sounds beautiful.
And instead of a big fancy wedding cake.
Yeah.
Maybe a simple naked cake.
Oh yeah.
Decorated with fresh fruit and herbs.
That's perfect for Hemingway.
And then to honor his love of travel.
Uh-huh.
You could have a map-themed guest book.
Okay.
Where people can mark places they've been or wanna go.
I love all these ideas.
I'm getting so inspired.
Me too.
But before you move on,
I'm curious, what kind of literary wedding would you plan?
Oh, that's a tough one.
I know, right?
I'm drawn to the romantic elegance of Shakespeare.
Mm-hmm.
But I also love that understated beauty of Hemingway.
Yeah.
Maybe like a fusion of the two.
Oh, a fusion.
So a garden setting.
Okay.
But with rustic touches.
Mm-hmm.
A simple but elegant gown.
Yeah.
And quotes from both authors.
Like woven into the decor.
That sounds amazing.
It's a perfect example of how you can take these ideas
and really make them your own.
Exactly.
Okay, speaking of making things your own.
Yeah.
Let's talk about one of my favorite parts
of wedding planning.
What's that?
The food and drinks.
I mean, come on.
The food is always one of my favorite parts
of any celebration.
Oh, absolutely.
Especially for a wedding, right?
Exactly.
It's like another opportunity
to really express your personal style.
Yeah.
Create a memorable experience for the guests.
Totally.
And there are so many possibilities, right?
Like the blog had some fun suggestions based on the authors.
Yeah.
But I'm curious.
What kind of culinary delights would you come up with
for that gothic romance vibe?
Like for a Poe wedding.
Ooh, that's a good one.
Let me think.
I'm feeling like we should lean into those darker,
more mysterious flavors, you know?
Oh, I like where you're going with this.
Rich, savory dishes, deep colors,
and maybe a touch of the unexpected.
Give me some specifics.
Okay, how about a black truffle risotto?
Ooh, yeah.
Those earthy flavors, the color.
Perfect for Poe.
And for dessert, a blood orange panna cotta.
Oh, elegant, slightly tart,
and that color is just so striking.
Right.
And for cocktails?
Cocktails, let's see.
What would a Poe cocktail be like?
I'm envisioning something called like a Raven's Shadow.
Ooh, I like that.
With blackberry liqueur, dark rum,
and maybe a hint of absinthe for that touch of mystery.
That sounds amazing.
Okay, now for a Gatsby-inspired celebration.
Oh, Gatsby.
I'm picturing a super lavish spread,
like fit for a king.
Oh, absolutely.
Champagne towers are a must, right?
Of course, and those elegant canapes.
Yes, oysters on the half shell.
Ooh, maybe even a chocolate fountain.
Oh, decadent.
Don't forget those mini lobster rolls and deviled eggs.
Love it.
And for drinks, we gotta go with classic cocktails.
Yeah, like gin rickies and side cars.
Perfect.
Okay, what about a Shakespearean feast?
Shakespearean feast.
What would that look like?
Hmm, I'm feeling a sense of rustic romance, you know?
Like hearty dishes, roasted meats, seasonal vegetables,
crusty bread.
Oh, and for dessert.
Dessert.
Yeah.
Let's do a beautiful berry tart.
Ooh, I love that.
Or maybe a spiced apple cake.
That sounds delicious.
And to drink?
To drink, we need to go authentic.
Right.
Mold wine.
Yes.
Or cider.
Yeah, yeah.
Served in goblets.
Love it.
Okay, last one, a Hemingway-inspired wedding.
Hemingway.
What kind of food fits that understated elegance?
Oh, for Hemingway, I'm thinking simple but sophisticated.
You know?
Like what?
Fried seafood.
Okay.
Grilled meats.
Vibrant salads.
Yeah.
And then to honor his travels, maybe a paella station.
Ooh, paella.
Or a tapas bar.
I love those ideas.
And drinks.
A classic mojito.
Yes.
Or a duckery, a nod to Cuba.
It all comes together, doesn't it?
It really does.
Finding those culinary connections.
Yeah.
And enhance the whole theme.
Create that memorable experience.
Exactly.
So there you have it, our Dive into Literary Wedding Themes.
From Poe to Hemingway.
Gothic romance to roaring 20s glamor.
Shakespearean elegance to that Hemingway charm.
And we've seen how you can really take these themes
and personalize them, right?
Absolutely.
The dress, the decor, the food, the drinks.
It's amazing how a simple bridal shop blog post
can spark so much creativity.
It really is.
It just goes to show inspiration can come from anywhere.
It really can.
So whether you're planning a wedding right now,
or you just love the idea of blending your passions
into your big day, I hope this deep dive gave you
some inspiration.
Some new ideas.
To think outside the box.
Because ultimately, your wedding should
be a reflection of you.
Of your unique love story.
Exactly.
Now I got to ask, what literary world would you
choose for your wedding day?
That's a tough one.
But that's for you to figure out.
That's right.
Happy wedding planning, everyone.
Hit it.