Painted Faces on Display

Throughout the Renaissance, masquerade balls were used as pageants and celebrations of important events like marriages or inaugurations and were extended into costumed public events in Italy during the 16th century. This extension created celebrations that allowed guests to wear highly extravagant masks and costumes that were both entertaining and mysterious. In light of the fact that even Romeo and Juliet - two of the most famous lovers of all time - met at a masquerade ball, it seems fitting that a wedding should grow and flourish on this intensely dramatic theme.

In terms of the bride’s dress many who choose this theme look to deeper and darker colors, such as red, purple or forest green, over the traditional white. While the style of the dress can go either way: either overtly ornate to go with the elaborate details of other masquerade accessories, or deceptively simple to provide an elegant contrast.

Don't forget the most important element of a masquerade; the mask itself. Whether they are created by the bride and groom and offered to guests as a favor at the wedding, or whether guests are requested to bring their own to the wedding, not only can the masks add color and vibrancy to the wedding, they themselves, can also be used in a number of interesting ways.

When sending out the invitations, let guests know that the theme is masquerade and let them dress up in whatever manner they choose. While it can be elegant and formal a masquerade can also be simply a chance to dress in costume, whatever costume that may be, so don’t be surprised at the guest who comes dressed as a bunny or other outlandish costumes. If costumes are the way you wish to go, you may also wish to hold a costume contest at the reception as yet another fun interactive idea.

For those looking outside the traditional wedding box for a wedding with flare, look to a masquerade and all the painted faces on display to provide the ultimate in drama and spectacle.

©2009 Weddingstar Inc.