2010 05/05

Thinking Outside the (Swedish) Box

Okay.  So Ikea’s not a DC insider’s secret.  But I’m writing this post to encourage you to think outside the box when it comes to wedding-day resources.  I find wedding inspiration in some of the least “bridal” places — so the next time you’re out shopping or walking around the city, open your eyes and think about how you could use atypical items or stores to your advantage!

Ikea has long been known as a bridal haven when it comes to buying tealights or votive candles in bulk, as well as to pick up extra vases or picture frames for table numbers.  But while you’re there, why not pick up a table-number display alternative like this tabletop easel?

[Source for all photos]

And that package of votives in your cart?  The one that’ll last you until your golden anniversary?  No need to get boring clear votive holders.  Not when you can pop into the kitchen and dining section and snag a few drinking glasses to use instead.  They’ll add a little flair to your tables (they have tons of choices, but I’ve picked out some that would match an aqua-and-candy-apple-red color scheme here).

Need some shallow bowls for floating flowers and candles?  Here’s a modestly-sized 10″ shallow bowl that not only comes in three different translucent colors, but also has matching 4″ dessert dishes that could be just as lovely holding those votives for a cohesive, matching look that’s not stuffy.  (Photos not to scale; the shallow bowl is 6″ bigger in diameter.)

For the summer bride using a mix of bright colors like grass green, yellow, orange, and turquoise, I love the idea of getting these fun bendy straws and adding DIY straw flags.  Especially for cocktails served in mason jars!

And in their textiles department, find all manner of fabrics and sewing supplies — sure, the selection isn’t quite as extensive as fabric stores, but their mod patterns might be perfect for that bold DIY ring pillow you’ve been meaning to try…

 

Stores like Ikea offer tons of creative inspiration at very low prices — so think outside the box!  You can find them in the following locations:

10100 Baltimore Avenue
College Park, MD 20740

2901 Potomac Mills Circle
Woodbridge, VA 22192

Leave a Reply

copyright 2010 District Bride Guide | Your Local Wedding Resource