With captivating tales of love and drama and the romance and elegance of the Regency era, Bridgerton’s modern-meets-Regency style has captured the imagination of millions. Not least that of many couples, who’d like to infuse their own wedding with just the slight whimsy that makes Bridgerton’s style so irresistible.
Whether you are a super-fan or would just like to include the one or other touch in your wedding: we lift the lid on how to add a little Bridgerton sparkle to your big day.
The venue
The country is an essential part of Bridgerton’s social calendar, and Suffolk has plenty of venues fit for the Ton!
An exclusive country house wedding is perhaps the obvious choice, but a Bridgerton-inspired wedding doesn’t necessarily have to be big:
The romantic, whimsical, and easy-to-replicate vibe lends itself just as perfectly to smaller venues such as Hollywell's Orangery or even to an elopement, for instance in the fairy-tale Shepherd’s Cottage on Suffolk's Heritage Coast.
An intimate and budget-friendly venue is our very own John Milton room. Nestled between flower gardens and an orchard, with a beautiful historic mulberry tree and iconic sash windows, this Grade II listed building exudes romance!
For an authentic Regency venue that is sure to be the talk of your friends and family (as well as Instagram), the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, England’s only surviving Regency theatre, ticks all the boxes.
The dress
Timeless and chic, the Bridgerton dresses channel the romance of the Regency era while expressing their owner’s individuality.
Key style elements like the high empire waistline, puff or capped sleeves and square necklines in lightweight, flowing fabrics like silk, organza or chiffon capture the elegant silhouette and sophistication. Importantly, they are flattering for every body shape!
White is of course the first choice for a wedding dress but don’t discount pastel shades. Pale blue, mint green or blush pink are fabulous choices. If a full pastel gown sounds too much, subtle colour accents or accessories can add the pop of colour that brings it all together. Dare we mentioning the occasional bold colour block that the Bridgerton ladies pull off?
Regardless of the colour and style choices though, more than anything what gives a dress the wow factor is if it just captures the essence of the bride. Pick the dress you fell in love with the moment you set eyes on it, regardless off all else!
The makeup and hair
With its soft, romantic and elegant Regency-era aesthetics, Bridgerton has inspired many brides to incorporate elements from the show into their wedding looks:
"Bridgerton inspired makeup is the Regency period with a modern twist" says Makeup artist Victoria Bradfield "Opt for a sheer coverage base for a fresh glowing, dewy complexion, and focus on a flushed cheek for that youthful look. Instead of lipstick choose a tinted lip balm for a more romantic look".
For your hair, up do's, intricate braids, cascading curls and plenty of volume are one way to go. Alternatively do like a blushing debutante and keep hair sleek with just a touch of nobility by adding a dainty tiara or diamond or pearl encrusted hair clip or hair band.
The ceremony
Love and romance take centre stage in Bridgerton and the series has inspired a whole new wave of romanticism. Follow suit in your wedding ceremony and up the romance by writing your own vows or include readings that have a personal meaning to you as a couple.
If you want to really tap into the Bridgerton/Regency romance incorporate your favourite literary quote from the era into your ceremony – Jane Austen anyone?
To tap into the English summer vibe that permeates Bridgerton, get married outside, at one of our approved venues or have your wedding at home or at an unlicensed place that has a special meaning to you as a couple:
“Couples are often unaware just how much they can personalise their ceremony. We really welcome those special personal touches that make a wedding unique. Your wedding is not just a ‘must do’ part of the day. It’s a celebration of your relationship and commitment to each other – past, present and future.” says Lynn Hiskey, ceremony manager at the Stowmarket Register office.
The décor
Elegant and graceful, Bridgerton inspired décor is perfect for any wedding:
Start with a colour scheme that reflects the show's rich visuals: Soft pastels and bold jewel tones - powder blue, delicate pinks, deep emeralds and gold. Opt for colour in your glasses and place settings, then add an extra touch with place cards and menus hand-written in calligraphy.
The flowers
An integral part of a Bridgerton-inspired wedding are flowers:
A Bridgerton-style wedding is all about capturing the elegance, romance and intrigue of the Regency era while adding a touch of whimsy:
“Lush florals play a central role in capturing the mood and setting the scene in a Bridgerton-inspired wedding. Think beautiful floral clouds of hydrangeas, peonies, wisteria of course, roses, and ‘love in a mist’ to capture the dreamy yet slightly opulent mood. For the colours opt for a combination of blues, apricots, and ivory, with touches of toffee and caramel” suggests Amanda Blackman, owner of Timeless Florals.
The music
If you’re planning a Bridgerton-inspired wedding, music plays a crucial role in setting the romantic and elegant tone and provides the ‘vibe’ for your day.
“Nothing lifts the atmosphere like live music” says Cal, Viola player from Gainsborough Quartet. “Classical music like Schubert or Beethoven is of course an option, but to add a contemporary feel to your wedding consider playing classical-style covers of popular songs, for a touch of modern elegance.”
“Music has endless possibilities to enhance each part of your wedding day. From welcoming your guests, during your drinks reception and wedding breakfast, through to your first dance. At the very minimum you should consider music for your processional, for the signing of the register and for your recessional as newlyweds", says Chris Slatter, the cellist and manager of the Scintillo String Quartet.
While live music may be the icing on the wedding cake, not all venues are suitable for live music, in which case a Bridgerton-inspired playlist such as Spotify’s Bridgerton Official Playlist is a good alternative.
Your special day is a canvas for your personal touches. Whether you choose to embrace the full Bridgerton Regency splendour or just add the one or other playful touch from the era, the day should first and foremost reflect who you are as a couple.
In the words of Lady Whistledown:
"A wedding is the ultimate performance in the grand theatre of society. Each detail meticulously planned, as if love itself were to be choreographed. Yet, it is the unscripted moments of genuine affection that truly capture the hearts of the audience."