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While most weddings won't include a flypast or royal guests, these are the trends that Pippa and James’ almost-royal-wedding will spark.
While most weddings won't include a flypast or royal guests like Pippa Middleton and James Matthews did, but here are some great ideas inspired by 2017's society wedding of the year that you can use for your own ceremony and reception.
By Alyssa Ashton
Photos: Getty Images
INCLUDE A ONE-OF-A-KIND TOUCH
When it came to designing the order of service for the ceremony, Pippa turned to her sister the Duchess of Cambridge. Kate, who studied art history in college, drew a beautiful sketch of the ceremony venue, St. Mark’s church, for the front of the wedding booklet. This personal touch is a lovely way to include family members in your big day.
Photos: Getty Images
CHOOSE PASTEL HUES
When it came to picking her wedding colors, Pippa went for a classic soft palette perfect for a spring wedding: white with touches of light pink and green, seen in the both the flowers and in the pageboy and bridesmaids outfits.
Pippa also extended the color scheme to her family, with both mom Carole Middleton and sister Duchess Kate wearing blush-colored dresses.
Photo: Getty Images
WEAR A MINI-TIARA
Every bride is a princess on her wedding day! Instead of opting for a large tiara, Pippa picked a discreet Robinson Pelham diamond and white gold headpiece that looked exquisite with her tulle Stephen Jones veil. Her tiara is so understated but glamorous that it would suit every bride.
Photo: Getty Images
EMBRACE THE FUN
Pippa and new husband James made their exit after their ceremony not in a formal horse-drawn carriage but a speedy convertible – showing that even a fairytale wedding should have moments to let loose. And at the reception, pictures of the bride and groom's faces were projected in multicolored lights on the Middletons' home – a touch that definitely gives the newlyweds a chance to show off their personalities. So bring those little-before-seen (and maybe even embarrassing!) photos out and give them their moment in the spotlight on your big day, shared with family and friends.
Photo: Getty Images
OPT FOR TRADITIONAL CHILDRENSWEAR
Prince George and Princess Charlotte stole the show in their very traditional pageboy and bridesmaid outfits.
Ring bearers in knickerbockers and flowergirls decked out in frills and bows add an adorably classic touch to the ceremony. And brides and grooms are in luck – Pepa & Co, the Spanish brand behind George and Charlotte's outfits, has now released a collection of kids' celebration wear that anyone can buy.
Photo: Getty Images
SKIP THE MAID OF HONOR
Many expected Pippa would pick her beloved big sister Duchess Kate as her Matron of Honor, but instead she chose a few little girls to escort her down the aisle. Still, Pippa clearly wanted her big sister by her side in a primary role, enlisting Kate to help her with with her train and organize the little bridesmaids and pageboys.
It’s very British to have a bridal party full of children, which definitely increases the cute factor of any wedding.
Photo: © Getty Images
LOOK LOVELY IN LACE
Both Middleton sisters chose lace wedding gowns, but each had distinctive feels. Kate’s Alexander McQueen gown was soft and romantic thanks to the tulle, while Pippa’s felt more modern. Her Giles Deacon creation featured silk cotton lace that was hand appliquéd to the gown to create a seamless effect. Tiny pearls were added, giving the cap-sleeved dress a hint of sparkle.
Photo: Getty Images
CHOOSE A DEMURE DRESS
Kate's elegant wedding dress inspired thousands of replicates, and we can expect the same from Pippa’s. Her gown was quite demure with short sleeves and a high collar, but she showed a hint of skin with the heart-shaped keyhole back, making it a romantic alternative to trendy strapless and backless styles.
Photo: Getty Images
DECORATE WITH COUNTRY GARDEN BLOOMS
British florist Lavender Green Flowers created the beautiful arrangements for Pippa's special day. The bouquets of sweet peas, peonies, garden roses, philadelphus, freesia, astilbe and jasmine were inspired by the English countryside in the summertime.
Pippa held a tiny bouquet, but filled the church with huge displays of flowers. She and James married under an archway of pink and white blooms, and for the reception Pippa had huge cherry blossom trees scattered around the venue.
Photo: Getty Images
