Miscellaneous Monday: Pretty umbrellas and parasols

We can’t get enough of umbrellas on Miscellaneous Monday this week!  There are so many ways you can incorporate them into your wedding day – after all, you can’t leave anything up to chance!  For inspiration, take a look at our new Pinterest board featuring some of our favourite parasol ideas - repin or make your own board and let us know on Twitter! And if you haven't already, read our West Weddings summer issue, where you'll find more planning inspiration!

Natasha and Ryan - a picture of love under the umbrella  

Accessorize your dress with a matching parasol

Follow West Weddings's board Pretty umbrellas and parasols on Pinterest.

       Ceremony! Outdoor ceremonies are more and more popular and perfect for summer weddings!  If your dream day is saying your vows alfresco, then a perfectly pretty arch made with fresh flowers and beautiful brollies is your best choice for decor.  Say your vows in the sunshine and don’t forget to provide a station of parasols for your guests, too – they’ll appreciate the shade!

 Reception! Create a unique reception style with scattered upside-down umbrellas in your colour theme. This idea works well outside for a summer wedding as well as inside when the weather is cooler– as long as you’re not superstitious! You can also use parasols as centre pieces, by tucking them into flower vases or as place names for your guests. Another idea is to decorate your drinks with mini crochet umbrellas to add a burst of colour.

Evening party! Cluster white or pastel parasols together and some fairy lights for a stunning canopy, which can decorate the dance floor.  After sunset, enjoy your first dance as husband and wife in a magical setting.

Accessories! Umbrellas make great accessories and gifts for your bridesmaids - they’ll keep them dry and shaded on the day and be lovely keepsakes afterwards. Used as props, they also provide plenty of fun photo opportunities!