Pantone Colour of the Year 2021

What is Pantone and why do they release a Colour of the Year?

Pantone, meaning ‘all colours,’ is a company founded in 1963 by Lawrence Herbert. He developed the first ever colour matching system, so that there would be a universal language for colour. It meant companies could assign an exact colour to their brand, knowing that it will be an exact match across every application for which it is used. In other words, it made everyone's life a lot easier! There are 1,867 colors in total; each allocated a name and number so that they are easily recognized.

Every December, Pantone release their ‘Colour of the Year’ in readiness for the New Year. They describe it as “a colour snapshot of what we see taking place in our global culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.” This influences multiple industries from fashion, home furnishings and… you guessed it - weddings!

Colours of the Year 2021

The colours for 2021 are 'Ultimate Grey' and 'Illuminating.' This is only the second time in their history that Pantone have released two colours in one year. They did this to express a message of both optimism and strength during uncertain times. The executive director at Pantone, Leatrice Eiseman stated, "The union of an enduring Ultimate Grey with the vibrant yellow Illuminating, expressed a message of positivity supported by fortitude." These colours send us a message of hope, that brighter days are on the horizon.

So how can you you take inspiration from these colours and incorporate them into your Santorini wedding day, I hear you ask? Well, I'm going to show you a variety of ways you can get creative with these colours, centring around my personal favourite, Boho Beach style.

It is important to remember that the Pantone colours are simply here to inspire us - the shades don't have to be a perfect match! Have fun with them and adapt them to match your style and taste.

Now, the first colours that spring to mind when thinking about Santorini are of course the iconic blue domes and whitewashed villages. But, if you take a closer look, the island is actually alive with colour and is bursting with this years Pantone colour combination.

Golden Touch

Grey's neutral hue makes it a perfect colour for any season. But, do not mistake it for being boring! Grey is timeless and elegant, not to mention that it pairs with so well with many other colours. Match it with sandy tones and mineral blues for a picturesque Boho beach wedding. Illuminating yellow may appear harsh next to these soft, cool colours, so try using a gold as an alternative which will compliment and still stand out. Who can resist some Grecian Glam!

If you're not a fan of yellow or gold and are simply looking to add some warmth to a more subdued colour palette, I've got you covered. I love using fairy lights to create a magical glow and as far as I am concerned, less is definitely more. Enchant your guests under an array of fairy lights, with the sound of the Santorini sea crashing gently in the background. If you're looking to go all out bohemian, decorate with some golden pampas grass and a nice touch here would be to display them in some Grecian style urns paired with some textural vintage rugs or macrame.

The Ultimate Wedding Bouquet

Wildflower bouquets work beautifully for a boho wedding. Relaxed, rustic and romantic, they are less structured than a typical bridal bouquet, making them a perfect choice for a chilled out beach vibe. When I picture some of my favourite wildflowers I think of yellows; sunflowers, daisies, craspedia, gerberas, yellow poppies - to name a few. The colour yellow symbolizes gaiety and happiness, so these flowers are ideal for cheering up any bouquet, whilst keeping on trend!

A Pop of Colour

If you prefer a classic, clean look with bright whites and ultimate greys, the last thing you’ll be thinking of including is a bright yellow, right? Wrong! A hint of yellow contrasts wonderfully with Santorini’s aqua seas and accentuates the Greek sunshine. It is possible to add splashes of yellow throughout your day, without having to include it in your neutral décor.

Food & Drink

Food and drink can be a fun way to achieve this. So, for something a bit different, why not serve your guests a ‘Santorini Sunrise’ cocktail as a welcome drink. Ouzo, amaretto, orange juice and a squeeze of lemon- you can thank me later! (Disclaimer: I take no responsibility for the hangover!!) For children and non drinkers, I’m sure an ice cold glass of refreshing homemade lemonade would go down a treat . Add some authentic Greek touches with lemon centerpieces or a yellow sweets table with some traditional favorites like baklava.

Hair & Fashion

When it comes to Bridal hair, I adore hair down with soft beach waves and am a sucker for a flower crown. Pair laurel wreath leaves with some yellow craspedia flowers for a simple greek-chic look. Alternatively, pin some of your favourite wildflowers throughout your hair if you prefer a minimalist look or if you are planning on having your hair up. Use the same flowers for your Groom’s buttonhole, which I picture being styled with an open white shirt and a soft grey blazer. As for bridesmaids dresses, keep with a light grey or another soft hue colour like dusty purple.

Stationery & Favours

Illuminate your tables by adding a splash of yellow to your menu or use it to funk up your favours. Something sweet like lemon drops in a personalised tin is super cute and practical. After all, we want to stay fresh when we are up close and personal on that dancefloor. What a wonderful thought though... everyone’s memories of social distancing, fading out with the tide.

It has been a heartbreaking year for us all and devastating for all the couples who were due to get married. For all those couples who are sitting tight, feeling like their special day will never come, just know that when it does, it will be better than ever. All of your guests will hug a bit tighter, dance a bit longer and party a bit harder! I know Matt and I certainly will be at the first chance we can get!

Much love, Ellie xxx

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