Beyond the White Veil: 5 Ways to Embrace Your Gothic/Alternative Wedding Style (At a Venue That Gets It)

Tired of the pastel hues and predictable traditions? Dreaming for a wedding that embraces the dramatic, the romantic, and the beautifully unconventional? If your heart beats a little darker and your style leans towards the gothic or alternative, then this is for you. Here are 5 top ways to make your wedding a true reflection of your unique aesthetic, with a nod to The Sessions House – a venue that not only allows but celebrates the non-traditional.

1. Embrace a Dramatic Colour Palette (Beyond the Pale)

Forget soft and subtle. A gothic or alternative wedding thrives on a rich and dramatic colour palette. Think deep jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, contrasted with the timeless elegance of black and perhaps accented with metallics like silver or antique gold. This sets an immediate mood of opulent mystery.

Sessions House Inspiration:

The rich red velvet curtains and dark wood panelling in the Magistrates Room provide a naturally dramatic backdrop for a gothic-inspired wedding breakfast.

The stylish Emerald Room, with its deeper hues, can be transformed into a vibrant yet moody cocktail lounge.

The grand Court-room, with its architectural drama, can handle bold colour choices in your décor and florals.

2. Choose Unconventional Attire (Rewrite the Rules of Wedding Wear)

Ditch the traditional white gown if it doesn't speak to you. Embrace black lace, deep jewel-toned fabrics, or even incorporate velvet or leather. For the groom (and beyond!), think sharp tailoring in black or deep colors, perhaps with unique details like statement jewelry or dramatic capes.

Sessions House Inspiration:

The grandeur of the Court-room provides a stunning runway for dramatic and unconventional wedding attire.

The unique character of the Library offers a fantastic backdrop for striking and alternative bridal party portraits.

3. Moody & Romantic Decor (Setting an Enchanting Atmosphere)

Think beyond delicate floral arrangements. Embrace deep, lush blooms in dark shades, perhaps incorporating elements like feathers, antlers, or antique candelabra. Low lighting, strategically placed candles, and textured fabrics like velvet and lace will enhance the moody and romantic atmosphere.

Sessions House Inspiration:

The existing antique features and unique lighting possibilities within The Sessions House lend themselves perfectly to a moody and romantic décor scheme.

Imagine the Court-room illuminated by candlelight, casting dramatic shadows on your ceremony.

The elegant Magistrates Room, with its existing character, requires minimal additions to achieve a sophisticated gothic ambiance.

4. Infuse Your Ceremony with Alternative Elements (Your Vows, Your Way)

Your ceremony is the heart of your day. Make it truly reflect your style by incorporating readings from your favorite dark literature, choosing music that resonates with your aesthetic (think classical with a twist, or even instrumental alternative), and writing vows that are deeply personal and perhaps a little unconventional.

Sessions House Inspiration:

The historic judges' bench in the Court-room offers a unique and powerful focal point for a non-traditional ceremony.

The acoustics of the grand space can beautifully carry unique musical choices.

5. Embrace the Venue's Unique Character (The Sessions House: Naturally Alternative)

One of the greatest advantages of choosing a venue like The Sessions House is its inherent character. Its history and unique architectural details already lean towards the non-traditional. Embrace these elements and let them enhance your gothic or alternative vision.

Sessions House Inspiration:

The building's 19th-century architecture provides a naturally dramatic and slightly gothic feel.

The intriguing Library offers a unique and atmospheric space that's far from a standard wedding backdrop.

The flexibility of the different rooms allows you to create distinct "zones" with varying levels of gothic or alternative styling.

Your wedding day is your story. Don't be afraid to break free from tradition and embrace a style that truly resonates with who you are. The Sessions House, with its unique charm and versatile spaces, is the perfect partner in bringing your dark and beautiful vision to life. Visit www.thesessionshouse.com to explore how we can help you create a gothic or alternative wedding that's anything but ordinary.