I was happily surprised when I ran into one of Diva Dialogue’s readers the other day. Planning her own wedding, she was having some trouble deciding a color theme. With a preference for black, she asked me how to incorporate this palette into her wedding. Here’s my take on this dramatic, chic and formal hue.

Photos top row: Black escort cards from The Knot, Color favor boxes from Beau-coup, Ethel silk halter dress from Ann Taylor, Black tie bouquet from Martha Stewart Weddings, Black and white cake from Pink Cake Box, Simple Elegance Wedding Invitations from Wedding Paper Divas, Black satin sandals from Brides, and White Gold Black and White Diamond Earrings from Macy’s.

Shades of violet, lilac and lavender make their royal comeback this season! In everything from designer dresses to fashionable decor, this hue adds a hint of drama to everything it touches. Take a look at my idea of a truly royal wedding inspired by the color purple.

Photos from top to bottom: Signature cocktails from Brides.com, Pronuptia ‘Flash’ purple bridal gown from Bridalwave, Chrysanthemum earrings from Etsy, Chinese Laundry Satin Bow Tie Clutch from ThisNext, Wild Bundle bouquet from Martha Stewart Weddings, Graphic flower cake from TheKnot, and Ornamental Scroll wedding invitation in deep purple from Wedding Paper Divas.

Although I haven’t gotten our “professional” photos yet, I do have some shots from my husband’s cousin, who is an aspiring photographer. Her pictures are photo journalistic and I love them.