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Burgh Brides answers some frequently asked wedding planning questions.

What are some things to consider when choosing wedding colors?
Selecting a color scheme for your wedding should be a little more complex than simply choosing your most-loved hues. Consider your venue’s style and existing decor to create an overall cohesive look. Another factor to keep in mind is the time of year. While there are really no rules, lighter colors tend to be more popular in the warmer months, richer shades appear more in winter and fall, and black looks good year-round.

Do I have to wear a white dress?
Absolutely not! Your wedding day should be a reflection of you and your personal style, whatever that may be. Choose attire that makes you feel beautiful, confident and radiant, whether that means a big, fluffy, white ball gown or something totally different. Forget tradition and wear whatever makes you the happiest.

How can my groom stand out from his groomsmen?
Dressing the man of honor in color is a great way to differentiate him. Black, navy, gray and tan will always be classic choices for suits and tuxedos, but burgundy, emerald green, rose and marigold are rising in popularity. He could also consider wearing a different pattern, such as plaid, or fabric, such as velvet.

What are some unique ideas for “something blue”?
Blue shoes, a clutch or a garter are popular and easy ways to wear this bridal tradition. For something a little more subtle, incorporate an accent nail in a very pale shade of blue into your manicure or weave a single, small blue flower into your bridal bouquet. If you want to wear “something blue” without really wearing something blue, one idea is to treat yourself to a bottle of Oscar de la Renta’s Something Blue perfume.

Look for Burgh Brides’ “Ask the Expert” column in each biannual issue of Pittsburgh MagazineWeddings.