When you begin the wedding planning process, one of the things you need to do early in the game is determine the feeling you want your wedding to have. To do this, you need to make a decision about the level of formality that appeals to you. This is an overview of the differences between formal, informal, and semi-formal weddings.

Formal weddings are the most traditional. Men will dress in a black tie for the evening or morning suits for a daytime ceremony. The bride should plan to wear a long dress with a train. Formal wedding dresses are the most elaborate, with crystal beading, ornate embroidery, or fine lace trim. Classic pearl bridal jewelry and a full veil are always appropriate for a traditional wedding, and long gloves wouldn’t be out of place.

Decorations at a formal wedding reception feature traditionally elegant flowers, such as roses or orchids. Large centerpieces in tall silver vases or lush rose displays make perfect tabletop displays. Set the table with fine china, sparkling crystal goblets, and gleaming silver on damask tablecloths. Depending on the size of the guest list, a band or even a small orchestra would make beautiful music for the wedding reception. End the evening with a tall, multi-tiered white wedding cake.

Semi-formal weddings are a step below the opulence of formal weddings. Men at a semi-formal wedding are required to wear a suit, whether the ceremony is day or night. As for the bride, she could wear an A-line, trumpet, or sheath wedding dress instead of a full formal gown. A medium level of embellishment on the dress would be appropriate, along with a chapel or sweep train, a veil, and simple pearl bridal jewelry. Long or long bridesmaid dresses would be acceptable for a semi-formal wedding.

The decor for a semi-formal wedding will be just as beautiful as a formal wedding, just not as ornate. Silver-rimmed china, streamlined glass, and classic table linens are the order of the day. The same flowers that work for a formal wedding would be pretty for a semi-formal reception, but will tend to be more simply arranged. Less elegant flowers such as hydrangeas or buttercups can also be inserted into the centerpieces. Dinner stations or family-style service would be great for a reception.

There is quite a wide range of what constitutes an informal wedding. In general, men will wear jackets and pants instead of a full suit or tuxedo, or maybe even a button-down shirt and pants without the jacket. The bride’s dress at an informal wedding can be almost anything she desires. It could be a very simple ivory organza strapless gown with a sweep train or a 1950s-inspired design. For less formal ceremonies, the bride can even deviate from anything resembling a wedding gown and simply wear your favorite pretty dress in any color. Every bride should carry at least one small bouquet, however, no matter how casual her outfit is,

Informal wedding decorations can be very cheerful and festive. Gerbera daisies in vivid shades of pink and orange are favorites for informal weddings. Wildflower centerpieces housed in clear glass Mason jars might be ideal for a backyard reception. A buffet service is appropriate for an informal dinner. The music can be whatever the bride and groom like best, from a DJ to a bluegrass band to their own iPod loaded with great tunes.

The key to wedding planning is designing an event that truly feels like you. So if you love the idea of ​​feeling like a princess for a day, go for a formal wedding. If you like things classic but not overdone, a semi-formal wedding will suit your taste. And for those couples who want their wedding day to be relaxed and carefree, an informal wedding will be perfect.