ROCK OUT WITH THESE OLD SCHOOL PUNK INSPIRED WEDDING IDEAS
Planned and designed by Rock n’ Willow Events and Jade Elora Photography, this wedding inspiration took place at The York Manor in Los Angeles California. The crisp, clean, white venue made the perfect backdrop for so many colorful elements.
“When most people hear ‘punk’, they think black on black. But things like The Clash’s bright pink amps and the Sex Pistols’ classic yellow and pink album cover prove that punk has always been colorful. We used elements of old school punk rock with bright 80s-inspired neon colors as inspiration for this wedding shoot with a real couple that has a ton of chemistry. The bright color palette, musical elements, and boldly-styled bride seemed like a perfect modern take on punk while ignoring the rules about what’s cool or tough or punk enough. ” Jade began.
“The bride rocked a white tulle skirt with a sequined black tank top. We loved the two-piece bridal outfit because it allowed us to illustrate how easy it is to craft a own unique look.” She explained.
“The groom’s black suit was customized with iron-on swallow patches in a traditional tattoo design on each lapel. This is an example of smaller patches on the lapel, but larger patches can be added to the back or arms for even more effect.”
“As a makeup artist and hair stylist, the bride actually did her own hair and makeup! She created this incredible braided, mohawk-inspired ponytail complete with “hair piercing” hoops. Hair piercings can include plain metal rings like these or more elaborate charms for even more sparkle. She chose bright pink eye shadow to match the theme’s colors plus a blue lipstick that matched both the color scheme and the bride’s hair.”
“For a ceremony backdrop, we created a DIY neon sign using neon “EL wire” from Cool Neon Lighting and white poster board as a base. Ceremony programs were a nod to those oh-so-punk photocopied concert flyers.”
“We loved the bright and fun reception setup! The spray-painted pin board greets guests with name-pin escort cards, which double as cute favors and an innovative way to help your guests remember names as they mingle.”
“A DIY temporary tattoo station gives guests a chance to get inked before they hit the dance floor. We set up our custom tattoo station with a selection of temporary tattoos from Tattly and Tattify, who both offer realistic designer tattoo designs. If you’re considering it for your own wedding, have foam paint brushes and a spray bottle nearby for application and have the instructions on display.” She added.
“The small arrangements provided by The Flower Shop, served as subtle centerpieces against the bright table settings. The colorful table featured a table runner made of paper triangles. Bright colored scrapbook paper was cut into various sizes and laid out in a cool geometric pattern. The place settings were all-black topped with hot pink napkins in studded pleather rings and all accented with blue glassware. Mixing the wood and metal textures of furniture offered another element of effortless edge.” Jade told us.
“LA Speakeasy provided killer punk-inspired craft cocktails with loads of color. Extending the color scheme to everything, including drinks, is a cool way to make the theme feel cohesive and fun. The York Manor’s underground bar was the ideal setting for their high-end drink mixing and has that perfect after-party atmosphere.”
“Completing the look was a paint-splattered two-tier cake with silver zipper details by Nicole Bakes Cakes. The graffiti “Love is Not Dead” on the cake tied in the theme and wedding hashtag. Having a wedding title can be great for invitations, hashtags, decor, and why the heck not–even the cake!”
“The invitations had paint splatters, graphic patterns, bold colors, and fun nods to the theme like the dress code (“dress to kill”) and the “possible mosh pit to follow”. The sparkle envelope liner added extra fun and the whole set was finished with custom yellow “tickets” to the after party.”
Photography: Jade Elora Photography | Planning: Rock n’ Willow Events | Venue: The York Manor | Florals: The Flower Shop | Stationery: Alexis Designs Things | Rentals: La Piñata Party Rentals | Cake: Nicole Bakes Cakes | Suit Patches: Your Patch Store | Engagement Ring: Evbea | Hair & Makeup: Autumn Skibinski | Bride: Autumn Skibinski | Groom: Aaron Garrett |
Tips and Ideas for Planning a Punk Wedding
Alright, safety pin your expectations, my rebellious romantics! After thirteen years navigating the often-frilly world of Bespoke Bride, my heart still beats a little faster for the unconventional. Today, we’re throwing out the tulle and tearing up the rulebook because we’re talking about planning a punk wedding! Forget demure pastels and polite applause; we’re envisioning something with attitude, something that screams “We do… our way!” So, grab your leather jacket and let’s dive into how to make your special day a glorious, defiant celebration of your love.
Thinking of Tying the Knot with a Twist? What Makes a Punk Wedding, Well, Punk?
Let’s be clear: a punk wedding isn’t just about throwing on some ripped fishnets and calling it a day (though, hey, if that’s your vibe, own it!). It’s about injecting the spirit of punk rock – individuality, rebellion against the norm, and a DIY ethos – into your nuptials. Think less “Say Yes to the Dress” and more “Say Yes to the Mosh Pit” (maybe not literally, but you get the idea!).
Remember my friends, Alex and Jamie? They bonded over a shared love of The Clash and a mutual disdain for overly saccharine anything. Their wedding? A glorious mash-up of black lace, vibrant graffiti backdrops, and a playlist that would make Johnny Rotten proud. It wasn’t traditional, but it was them, down to their studded Doc Martens. That’s the essence of a punk wedding: unapologetically you.
Watch this Punk themed wedding for inspo:
How Do You Infuse Your Day with Punk Rock Rebellion?
So, how do you translate that rebellious spirit into tangible wedding plans? Let’s start with the visuals. Forget pristine white; think bold colors, maybe a splash of neon, or the timeless cool of black. Leather jackets as wedding attire? Absolutely! DIY details are practically a punk prerequisite. Think hand-painted signs, band patches incorporated into bouquets, or even custom-made studded details on your attire. Sites like Etsy are goldmines for unique, handcrafted items that scream individuality: https://www.etsy.com/.
Music is, naturally, paramount for a punk wedding. Ditch the generic wedding playlist and curate something that reflects your musical tastes. Imagine walking down the aisle to an acoustic version of your favorite punk anthem! For the reception? A live band belting out your favorite rebellious tunes would set the perfect anarchic (in a fun way!) atmosphere.
Watch this beautiful punk-themed wedding in Orange County:
What About the “Wedding” Bits? Can You Still Have Tradition with a Twist?
Here’s the beauty of it: you can absolutely blend tradition with your punk sensibilities. Want to exchange vows? Go for it, but maybe write your own, filled with the raw honesty of a punk lyric. Want a cake? Have one, but maybe top it with something unexpected, like miniature band figurines or ironic slogans.
My experience with unconventional weddings has taught me that the most memorable ones are those that genuinely reflect the couple. It’s about taking the elements that feel right to you and twisting them to fit your personal style. Think of it like a punk cover of a classic song – the familiar structure is there, but the delivery is entirely your own.
Nailing Your Punk Wedding Vibe: A Few Hardcore Tips
- Embrace DIY: Handmade details add a personal and inherently punk touch.
- Don’t shy away from black: It’s a classic for a reason and can look incredibly chic with the right accents.
- Music is key: Curate a playlist or hire a band that truly reflects your punk rock hearts.
- Attitude is everything: Wear what makes you feel like your authentic, rebellious selves.
Is a Punk Wedding the Right Anthem for Your Love?
If the idea of a cookie-cutter wedding makes you want to stage a protest, then a punk wedding might just be your perfect anthem. It’s about celebrating your commitment in a way that feels genuine, bold, and utterly you. So, are you ready to turn up the volume and say “I do” with a rebellious roar?
People Also Ask:
- Does a punk wedding have to be all black? Nope! While black is a common element, you can incorporate any bold colors you love. Think tartan, neons, or deep jewel tones.
- What kind of flowers work for a punk wedding? Anything goes! Consider dark and moody blooms, unexpected textures, or even DIY paper flowers incorporating band logos.
- Where can we find a venue that fits a punk aesthetic? Think outside the ballroom! Consider industrial spaces, art galleries, or even a cool bar or music venue.
- What about the dress code for guests? You can suggest guests embrace the theme with their attire, but ultimately, comfort is key.
Ready to unleash your inner punk rocker and plan a wedding that truly rocks? Let me know what rebellious ideas you’re brewing!
Thanks for sharing this wonderful post, loved the dresses