Are you invited to a Halloween wedding? With so much of Halloween centering on style and costumes, it can be tough to know how your hosts expect you to dress for the big day. Discover some clues and tips that will help you determine what to wear to a Halloween wedding.
Check the Invitation
The invitation is your first clue. Chances are, if the bride and groom expect you to come in costume, they’ll say so. If the invitation doesn’t specifically encourage or require costumes, save the dressing up for your own Halloween party.
Some couples specify a particular costume theme, like Star Wars, fairy tale, masquerade, pirates, or Vikings. If guests are encouraged to choose costumes related to a theme, it’s best to stay within the suggested realm.
Ask the Bride or Groom
Maybe the wording on the invitation is vague, or you have other questions about attending in costume. Feel free to get in touch with the bride or groom, or their wedding coordinator! Asking questions before the wedding is far better than feeling silly or out of place during the entire event.
Choose a Tasteful Costume
A wedding is an important ceremony, and it’s all about the bride and groom. If costumes are encouraged, you’ll want to wear something that isn’t too garish or attention-getting— you don’t want to snag the spotlight from the special couple.
If you’re a guy, consider classic options like a wizard, newsboy, secret agent (think James Bond), Tony Stark (Iron Man without the suit), or a cowboy. The Victorian era and the Roaring Twenties are usually favorites when it comes to period costumes. Women have plenty of period costume choices as well, from famous queens to flappers to women of note like Amelia Earhart and Marie Curie.
Wear Something Neutral
Even if your hosts are not requesting that you come in costume, they may have some fun props and masks available at the photo booth. Wear a dress or suit that’s neutral enough to go with any Halloween mask or accessory you may choose. Plus, sticking to neutral or darker tones ensures that your outfit won’t clash with the Halloween wedding decor in the reception photos.
Find Subtle Ways to Get in Character
Remember, you can play into the fun without purchasing an entire costume. A red dress you already own, paired with white makeup, red heart-shaped lips, and a crown turns you into the Queen of Hearts. Drape a red and yellow scarf over your dark suit, draw a lightning-shaped scar on your forehead, and grab a pair of round glasses, and you’re Harry Potter. Feel free to get creative with items you already own.
If in Doubt, Don’t
If you’re not sure if a particular costume is too revealing, too casual, or too over-the-top, just say no. Listen to your instincts and take it down a notch or two.
Whether a Halloween wedding involves costumes or not, it’s a fantastic time to enjoy a little extra fun as you celebrate the marriage of friends or family members. If you’d like to start planning your own wedding celebration, contact Nanina’s in the Park to take a tour of our elegant rooms and beautiful grounds.
