Bridgerton x Emo: The Unapologetically Bold Styling of Mel & Craig's Alternative Wedding

Tired of the all white, traditional wedding mood boards? So were Mel and Craig. 

The couple came to us because they refused to settle for a typical wedding aesthetic. As Un-Traditional Wedding Stylists, our brief was to fuse the elegance of the Bridgerton Netflix show with moody, colour and textures of emo wedding vibes. The result? A stunning, bespoke design that defined their alternative wedding.

Designing a Unique Wedding Look

Mel and Craig's vision was a refreshing challenge: how to incorporate the period luxury of a major TV series without sacrificing their personal alternative style.

We started by rejecting all standard choices.

Instead of the usual soft palettes, we engineered a dark, rich colour story using textiles. We anchored the room with deep damask blue linens and layered this foundation with bold colours: burgundy napkins and a high-texture velvet teal runner. This intentional mix of materials—not just colours—created a luxury ambiance that was undeniably modern and moody.

Our process is design-led. The contrast between the soft velvet and the crisp damask wasn't accidental; it’s how we create depth and tactile interest, pushing the boundaries of traditional wedding decor.

Collaborating with Talented Creatives

To bring the stationery and signage to life, we worked closely with Kate from I Like Pens Studio. Her designs perfectly matched the Bridgerton wedding theme. The signage and place cards featured elegant calligraphy, tying in beautifully with the overall decor.

Her ribbons and fabric signage were one of our favourite parts of the day.

The UWS Approach: Embracing Bold, Alternative Choices

Mel and Craig’s wedding shows how embracing bold colours and unexpected textures can make an event truly memorable. Alternative weddings often break away from traditional norms, and this couple’s Bridgerton wedding theme with emo wedding vibes is a perfect example.

Choosing damask blue tablecloths instead of plain white instantly sets a different mood. Pairing those with burgundy and teal adds complexity and richness that guests notice. These choices reflect the couple’s personalities and create an atmosphere that feels authentic.

The ribbon backdrop and chair ribbons are also great examples of how small details can enhance the overall design. They add movement and softness, balancing the darker colour palette and giving the space a romantic yet edgy feel.

Tips for Couples Planning an Alternative Wedding

If you’re thinking about an alternative wedding with a unique theme like Bridgerton or emo wedding vibes, here are some practical tips based on Mel and Craig’s day:

• Choose a colour palette that reflects your style. Don’t be afraid to mix rich, moody colours with softer textures.

• Work with creatives who understand your vision. Collaborating with design experts helped bring the theme to life.

• Focus on details that tie the look together. Small touches like ribbons on chairs or custom stationery make a big difference.

• Use textures to add depth. Velvet, damask, and ribbons create layers that guests can see and feel.

• Balance bold elements with elegance. The Bridgerton theme gave a classic base, while emo wedding vibes added personality.

  
  

Creating a Wedding That Feels Like You

Mel and Craig’s alternative wedding was a masterclass in custom design. It’s a reminder that weddings don't have to fit a mold.

By choosing rich colours, unique textures, and thoughtful details, they crafted a day that felt personal and memorable.

If you’re planning an alternative wedding, take inspiration from their approach: be bold, be authentic, and work with people who get your vision.

Mel and Craig’s Hydebank Farm Wedding shows how mixing tradition with alternative elements can create something truly special. Whether you lean into regal, moody or full out rock and roll wedding vibes, the key is to make it yours.

Venue: Hyde Bank Farm

Stylist: Un-Traditional Wedding Stylists

Florals: Sweetbud

Stationery: I Like Pens Studio

Photos: Katie Dervin