CWPR Fall 2016

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B A N Q U E T S , R E C E P T I O N S , S H O W E R S & P A R T I E S
C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
5
INVITATIONS:
A COLORFUL WAY WITH WORDS
Why are watercolor invitations so trendy?
Watercolor is naturally a very romantic
art form, with its loose feel and blended
colors, making it a perfect fit for wedding
invitations. Graphics can be anything from
lush florals to washes of color to detailed
illustrations.
This versatility means it can work for
different wedding styles – formal occasions
to casual backyard weddings. Pastels –
soft pinks, peaches, sky blues and minty
greens – are favorites, but brighter tones
like saturated hot pinks and deeper indigo
blues are edging their way in. A more
graphic take on the watercolor trend is
black and white, and this typically has
a more modern feel – think elegant, art
gallery reception – and is usually paired
with minimal designs like lines and dots.
Predesigned styles are more affordable than
custom designs, and many stationers offer
a variety of graphics, colors and prices.
Couples who want a one-of-a-kind
invitation are often inspired by their
wedding’s venue, location or season.
Or incorporating aspects of your
personality, hobbies, or even your
engagement story. Paper is a fun way
to include personality in your wedding.
LIVE EVENT ARTIST:
PAINTINGS COME TO LIFE
The hot new reception trend? Hiring
a live-event watercolor artist to paint a
special wedding moment like the first
dance or cake cutting while it’s happening.
Philadelphia artist Lisa Howell-Baxter says
it takes her about four hours to sketch the
surroundings then paint the scene. Guests
watch her every brush stroke.
“There is a fascination among the guests
to witnessing a work being created live
during the event,” she says. “It adds to the
entertainment.”
Watercolor is often the medium of choice
because it’s quicker to use than oil or
acrylic, but there are challenges, too.
Says Howell-Baxter: “There is no ‘erasing’
of paint or ‘covering up’ once the paint is
on the paper.” Some artists finish and frame
the painting before the last song is played,
while others make final touch ups back at
their studio before delivering it to the bride
and groom.
Some artists also do quickie (5 to 10
minute) portraits of guests, which they take
home as a memento. It beats scented soap
as a favor by a long shot!
© CTW Features
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