This monochromatic palette is certainly not for the feint of heart, but I know there are a few brides out there who would adore an all-black wedding. A white wedding dress will keep it from having too much of a gothic look, but you can certainly dress your ‘maids in black. Pretty filigree and lots of light will also help soften the effect.

{hairpiece photo by Janae Shields Photography via The Knot; damask invitations from Etsy seller socialcircles; favor box image by Calli B Photography via Polkadot Bride; chandeliers image by Anna Kuperberg via The Knot; filigree cupcake wrapper from Paper Orchid; lanterns from BrideTshirtsonline; Rococo Noir serving pieces by Rosanna; bouquet image from The Bloomery via Photobucket; photo of bridesmaids from Weddingbee; black pearl necklace from Etsy seller toccata; candles photo by Calli B Photography via Polkadot Bride}

Make a bold statement with black and purple by using these two colors as the base palette and mixing in some deep fuschia or bright pinks. For a softer touch add in a little bit of white.

{Hershey’s Kisses image from Indian Bridal Designs; shoes photo via My Modern Vintage Wedding; orchid bouquet by Real Oasis; black glitter butterfly from Italian Options; dress image via Kelly Oshiro Events; tablescape photo via D*LSH Design; clutch purses from Etsy seller whatthefunk; purple earrings by Etsy seller GlitzGlitter; bride and groom photo by Jessica Claire; wedding cake by Specialiced; purple and black table linens from Chair Creations}

This cheerful, crayon box combination is perfect for the fun-loving bride who still enjoys a good childhood activity every now and then. With so many colors, the possibilities for decor are endless.

{crayon photo from Submagination; shoes photo by Jules Bianchi Photography; earrings from Paw & Claw Designs; photo of bride and groom with balloons from Flickr; invitations via Love Invites; black fortune cookies available from Fancy Fortune Cookies; pinwheels image (and DIY download!) from Heather Bailey; umbrellas image by Paul Retherford; cupcake photo via Top Mom Blog; polka dot cake from Venus Cakes; photo of bride on bike by Travis Hoehne Photography}

If you think black and orange is just for Halloween, think again. It’s not confined to autumn, either – the addition of white helps cheer it up for a bright, summery wedding. With the right touch, these colors can be transformed into the perfect combination for a sophisticated soiree or a down-to-earth, practical picnic.

{orange punch from Hermesetas; hand fan from Smart Bride International; butterfly garland by Etsy seller pandawithcookie; bouquet image by Sweet Monday Photography via The Knot; dress photo by Jason Frank Rothenberg; wedding cake by Graceful Cake Creations; candy from Candy Warehouse; ruffle dress from The fuss Boutique; bouquet image by Goes Photography via The Knot; vibrant autumn invitations by Invitations by Dawn}

Black and jewel tones is a somewhat open-ended combination, but I like it that way. It has lots of wiggle room for color creativity. You could choose to use just peacock colors (blue, green, purple), or toss in some pink and orange. There are lots of possibilities. The key is to use very bright colors and not muted shades.

{magnolia headband from Etsy seller ionascloset; recycled glass votive holders from sonoma living green; chandelier Scrabble tile pendant by Etsy seller IMCreations; eggplant formal from NextEve; black ‘Andie” dress from Dillard’s; photo of ornament bouquet and shoes from Flickr; jeweled brooch from Polished & Put-Together; invitations by Modern Girl Invitations; velvet clutch from Etsy seller FallenSparrow; peacock pom poms by Etsy seller PartyPoms; wedding cake from Cake Central}