10 Places to Find Wedding Inspiration That AREN’T Pinterest

You’ve hit the local wedding shows, you’ve flipped through a mountain of magazines, and you’ve spent countless late nights on Pinterest. You’re bombarded with wedding inspiration but still feeling less than original when it comes to your details and design. If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to step away from the screen and look for ideas elsewhere.

Not sure where to start? Fret not. We’ve rounded up ten unexpected places where you’ll find wedding inspiration—and your eyes won’t glaze over from staring at a screen for too long.

Visit an art museum

Whether or not you consider yourself an art aficionado, a trip to your local museum or gallery might be just what you need. The colors, the textures, the subject matter, and the emotion each piece evokes makes this cultural excursion a wedding inspiration goldmine. Contemporary art museums are perfect for the couple planning sleek and modern nuptials while a gallery featuring traditional work might be best for the couple dreaming of a classic affair.

Head to the hardware store

Believe it or not, some of the best wedding inspiration can be found right in the hardware store. The paint aisle, to be specific. Make a mini date night of it and grab a couple coffees, head for the paint swatches, and mix-and-match to your heart’s content. Of course, color palette ideas can always be found online, but you’ll both appreciate being about to see and touch the shades and gameplan your palette together.

Look to pop culture

If you’re longing for ideas, look to your favorite novels, films, theater productions, or even Netflix shows to provide some much-needed inspiration. Is your favorite novel set in a lush, romantic garden? Are you a sucker for the Old Hollywood romance of black and white films? Whatever your taste, let pop culture be your guide to design a day that feels one-of-a-kind.

Dine out

When you’re on the hunt for wedding inspiration, head out to your very favorite restaurant for an impromptu date night. Stop to consider what it is you both love about this spot in particular. Is it the decor? The vibe and atmosphere? The down-to-earth hospitality? Whatever that “it” factor, make sure it’s incorporated into your big day so guests can experience that sentiment throughout the celebration.

Examine your closet

Many couples don’t realize that designing their wedding can be as simple as a stroll through their own closets. Look to the colors, patterns, and textures you’re most drawn to and which styles of clothing you consider your go-tos. It’s also worth noting which fashion brands best represent your personal style. For example, are you a Kate Spade girl or is Anthropologie more your vibe? All these elements can point you in the right direction for a wedding that’s uniquely you.

Stay right at home

Similarly to fashion, the world of interior design can provide you with a look into your personal style and provide ample wedding inspiration. Take a peek around your own home and note the kinds of furniture, lighting, and decor you’ve selected. If you’re working with hand-me-down furniture that isn’t necessarily your style, take a trip to your local home decor store and let the ideas run wild. Whether you’re a modern minimalist, a farmhouse-chic enthusiast, or anywhere in between, you can use those design cues to guide your decision making on venues, rentals, tablescapes, and more.

Embrace nature

As every creative knows, wedding inspiration can strike just about anywhere but a trip to the great outdoors is always a good idea. There’s something about being completely unplugged that helps connect one to their surroundings and stir up ideas for the wedding day and beyond. Go hiking, camping, visit your local park, community gardens, or just take a walk outside. You’re guaranteed to find inspiration amongst Mother Nature.

Book a trip

Pack your bags and get ready for adventure because there’s nothing that inspires quite like traveling. Whether the journey takes you across oceans or involves a road trip to a neighboring town, simply getting out of your usual element will produce new ideas like you wouldn’t believe. If new travels aren’t on the horizon during this season, don’t forget to look to past or future travel experiences. Draw on favorite trips you two have taken together or let to your upcoming honeymoon locale serve as design inspiration.

Attend a local festival

Take a quick scan of upcoming events in your city and plan an outing to the next festival, fair, or farmer’s market. Not only is it a fun way to spend time with your soon-to-be, but you’ll be thoroughly inspired by the endless sights, sounds, colors, people, and of course, foods. Who knows - you might find an idea for your menu or discover a must-have food truck for your reception.

Uncover family wedding albums

Sometimes the most meaningful wedding inspiration come from our families whose love stories inspire our own. Dig out your parents’ and grandparents’ wedding albums and flip through each one with your fiancé(e) by your side. While specific colors and styles might be dated, you’re certain to find unique ideas or traditions to incorporate into your special day.