Photo by Stefanie Kamerman Photography 

In a year with few bright spots, we often have to remind ourselves that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.   It is with no surprise that the forecasters at Pantone have chosen the color of the year based on the same message; one that calls for optimism and endurance.  For only the second time in 22 years, two complementary colors were chosen…Illuminating and Ultimate Gray.  This vibrant yellow hue paired with gray sends a message of “happiness supported by fortitude.” 

The color of the year is something that excites wedding planners year after year, but never has it seemed more important to share these colors with our clients.  2020 was challenging, but how often over these last 12 months have we been reminded that love conquers all? The optimism and warmth of yellow coupled with the practical and solid nature of gray seems like the perfect mix of hope and strength that people need. The message behind this year’s color choice is so powerful and significant that we have a feeling we will see this color scheme pop up in many of our future design boards!

One way that couples can incorporate the colors of the year into their wedding is through flowers.  Illuminating is a very common color for flowers, and the use of yellow florals will be sure to create positive energy since they are so bright and cheery.  While gray does not organically occur in flowers, there are some greenery varieties that have a silvery tone that will complement the yellow beautifully. 

Some of our favorite yellow hued flowers are ranunculus, gerbera daisies, calla lilies, tulips, yellow snapdragons, spray roses and freesia.  All of these varieties will pair beautifully with lambs ear, dusty miller, and silver brunia.  Adding pops of white flowers such as peonies and white button poms will tie everything together for a beautiful bouquet that represents the promise of better days.  

When working with a specific color palette for your wedding, it is important not to focus on getting the exact color combination, but instead to bring in similar tones for a more cohesive look. The use of accent pieces incorporated into your bouquets as well as your tablescape is also a great way to bring in some of the colors that may not be common in flowers.  

We couldn’t be more enamored with Pantone’s colors of the year for 2021. Science has shown that color boosts our endorphins, and we are certain that a sunny color like Illuminating is as close to a perfect example as you can get. So here is to better days ahead and to all the strength it takes to get us there!