What Cleveland Brides Can Learn From Taylor Swift: A Cleveland Wedding Planner’s Guide to Story-driven Design
A Sterling Event Services Collaboration
Featuring: Pomp Parties • Sugar Me Desserterie • Rock The House • Adela Dan Photography • Forest City Story Lab • Sterling Event Services
By Janet Abbey | Sterling Event Services | Cleveland Wedding Planner
Cleveland wedding design eras - Lover, 1989, Reputation, Folklore, Midnights by Sterling Event Services
What if your wedding could feel the way your favorite song feels?
Not "a theme." A feeling.
The best weddings aren't the most decorated—they're the most true.
If you're planning a wedding in Cleveland, Ohio and want your day to feel cohesive, elevated, and personal—this guide will help you choose your wedding design direction, venue pairing, and emotional aesthetic without chasing trends.
This guide shows Cleveland couples how to use "era energy" (romantic, modern, dramatic, cozy, after-dark) to design a wedding with an emotional signature—at any budget.
As a Cleveland wedding planner, I've seen firsthand how couples can use story-driven design to create weddings that feel intentional—not trendy.
And here's the important part: You don't need to be a Taylor Swift fan to use this. You just need to want a wedding that feels cohesive, intentional, and true to you.
Note: This was a styled collaboration created for inspiration and education.
Choose Your Era in 60 Seconds
Not sure where you fit? Start here:
DOWNLOAD THE ERA GUIDE → Get the 10 design strategies + Cleveland venue pairings
Perfect if you're overwhelmed by Pinterest and want your wedding to feel cohesive.
"There's nothing beige about those feelings." — Taylor Swift
Story-Driven Wedding Design: What Cleveland Couples Actually Want
For most of my 30+ year career, I focused on logistics.
Timelines. Vendor coordination. Making sure everything ran smoothly. I was good at it—I could coordinate a 300-person wedding in my sleep.
But about 4-5 years ago, something shifted.
A friend asked me to design (not just plan) her nonprofit event. And I discovered I loved the creative side as much—maybe more—than the planning side.
Then came the moment that changed everything.
The Moment I Realized "Pretty" Isn't the Point
I planned a wedding where the bride had spent months perfecting every visual detail. The color palette was flawless. The centerpieces were magazine-worthy. Everything photographed beautifully.
But halfway through the reception, I overheard her mother say to a guest:
"It's lovely, but… it doesn't feel like her, does it?"
She was right.
The wedding was beautiful. But it didn't feel like the couple. It felt like a very expensive, very pretty… event.
That's when I realized:
My job isn't to make weddings look good. It's to make them feel true.
"Decorating is not about making stage sets… it's really about creating a quality of life, a beauty that nourishes the soul."
— Albert Hadley, legendary interior designer
Do you want to map your era + your venue + your must-haves?
Want full-service support? Explore our Wedding Planning Services in Cleveland here:
Why Vendor Chemistry Matters More Than You Think
Before I introduce you to the incredible creative team who brought these eras to life, I need to tell you something critical:
Your photographer and videographer need to work together seamlessly.
I almost witnessed a physical fight at Hillbrook Club once.
The photographer and videographer couldn't collaborate. The photographer was furious about blocked shots. The videographer was defensive. The couple was caught in the middle.
It was a disaster.
That experience taught me something I'll never forget: Vendor chemistry isn't just "nice to have." It's essential.
When I recommend creative teams now, I only suggest vendors who:
Have worked together before
Respect each other's process
Communicate clearly on wedding day
Understand how to share space
The couples I work with get better content AND a better experience because their creative team actually collaborates.
With that in mind, here's the team that made this collaboration possible.
Cleveland wedding vendor collaboration team - Sterling Event Services, Pomp Parties, Sugar Me Desserterie, Rock The House, Adela Dan Photography, Forest City Story Lab
Meet the Creative Team Behind the Eras
STERLING EVENT SERVICES | Creative Direction + The In-House Design Team
Owner: Janet Abbey
Phone: (216) 287-8406
Instagram: @fabsterlingevents | Website: www.sterlingeventservices.com
Sterling Event Services led the creative direction with our in-house design team—floral artistry by Maribeth Mayer and handmade glass by Caroline Abbey.
What I did: Provided the finishing touches that tied each era together—candlesticks, votives, chargers, styling details. More importantly, I served as creative director, ensuring every vendor's work aligned around one emotional story.
What sets Sterling apart: After 30+ years and 700+ celebrations, I know how to translate emotion into cohesive design. I don't just coordinate vendors—I build creative teams who collaborate seamlessly.
Sterling Event Services floral design Cleveland - Maribeth Mayer in-house florist, organic romantic florals
STERLING EVENT SERVICES | MARIBETH MAYER | Floral Design
Sterling Event Services In-House Designer
What she did: Created 5 completely distinct floral styles—from loose romantic blooms to moody burgundy drama to textural dried elements.
What sets Maribeth apart: She designs florals that feel organic to your venue and season—not like they were dropped in from someone else's Pinterest board. Her intentional, emotion-driven floral artistry demonstrates that florals tell stories through texture, color, and composition—not just fill space.
Sterling Event Services glass artistry Cleveland - Caroline Abbey handmade glass vases, Cleveland Institute of Art
STERLING EVENT SERVICES | CAROLINE ABBEY | Glass Artist & Creative Partner
11 years with Sterling Event Services | Cleveland Institute of Art Senior
What she did: Contributed glass artistry and creative direction. Every piece is made by hand in Cleveland—not mass-produced, not ordered from a catalog. When you work with Sterling, your glass pieces can be made specifically for your wedding—a vase for your ceremony blooms, a chandelier for your reception, something handmade that becomes a keepsake long after the celebration ends.
What sets Caroline apart: She brings a fine art perspective to commercial event design, combining 11 years of hands-on event experience with formal training in craft and design. This represents true multi-generational business succession—my 30+ years of event planning expertise meeting Caroline's 11 years of evolving creative talent and emerging fine art mastery.
THE COLLABORATION PARTNERS
Pomp Parties luxury wedding rentals Cleveland
POMP PARTIES | Luxury Rentals
Owner: Tracey Rezak
Phone: (857) 991-6970
Instagram: @pompparties | Website: www.pompparties.com
Working with Tracey? We coordinate with them seamlessly — Book a Consultation to build your full creative team.
What she did: Provided the foundational furniture and styling pieces—blush velvet lounge seating, chrome coffee tables, natural wood farm tables—that gave each era its distinct personality.
What sets Pomp Parties apart: Tracey understands that rentals aren't decoration—they're functional design that guests actually use. Her lounge setups create gathering moments where people naturally connect.
Sugar Me Desserterie wedding cakes Cleveland - editorial cake design, era-inspired desserts
SUGAR ME DESSERTERIE | Editorial Cakes
Owners: Teresa Hillyer + Brittany Hillyer Eidam (mother-daughter team)
Phone: (440) 247-7228
Instagram: @sugarmedesserterie | Website: www.sugarmedesserterie.com
Working with SugarMe? We coordinate with them seamlessly — Book a Consultation to build your full creative team.
What they did: Designed 3 custom cakes + sugar cookies—each one matching its era's aesthetic perfectly. From blush ombré buttercream to matte black with gold drip.
What sets Sugar Me apart: This mother-daughter team approaches cake design like fine artists. They help you understand how dessert becomes part of your wedding's emotional story.
Rock The House wedding lighting Cleveland - professional uplighting, pin spotting, ambient design
ROCK THE HOUSE | Lighting Design
Contact: Ryan Konikoff
Phone: (440) 232-7625
Instagram: @igotrocked | Website: www.rthgroup.com
Working with Ryan? We coordinate with them seamlessly — Book a Consultation to build your full creative team.
What they did: Created distinct lighting strategies for each era—from soft romantic uplighting to dramatic pin-spotted candlelight to cool-toned modern ambiance.
What sets Rock The House apart: They don't just add colored lights to walls. They design lighting that shifts emotion, highlights focal points, and creates the atmosphere your florals alone can't achieve.
Adela Dan Photography Cleveland wedding photographer - editorial style, artistic wedding photography
ADELA DAN PHOTOGRAPHY | Editorial Photography
Photographer: Adela Dan
Phone: (216) 571-3481
Instagram: @adela_dan_photography | Website: www.adeladan.com
Working with Adela? We coordinate with her seamlessly — Book a Consultation to build your full creative team.
What she did: Captured every detail with artistic precision. Her ability to see beyond the obvious and capture mood made these vignettes feel like fine art. Her artistic approach shaped how we styled each era—she didn't just document our work, she helped us see what each era could become.
What sets Adela Dan Photography apart: Adela Dan shoots with an editorial eye that elevates everything. She understands light, composition, and how to capture the emotional signature of your wedding—not just pretty details.
Forest City Story Lab Cleveland wedding videography - cinematic storytelling, emotional wedding films
FOREST CITY STORY LAB | Cinematic Videography
Videographer: Dustin Lopez
Phone: (440) 241-7785
Instagram: @forestcitystorylab | Website: www.forestcitystorylab.com
Working with Dustin? We coordinate with him seamlessly — Book a Consultation to build your full creative team.
What he did: Brought each era to life through cinematic video, capturing movement, emotion, and atmosphere that photos alone can't convey.
What sets Forest City Story Lab apart: Dustin's cinematic approach captures the in-between moments—the way candlelight flickers, the way fabric moves, the way your wedding actually felt. And critically: Forest City Story Lab and Adela Dan Photography are two completely independent companies who have worked together on multiple weddings—and they coordinate seamlessly instead of competing. That's the kind of vendor chemistry that makes a difference on wedding day.
How to Apply Era Design Principles to ANY Event
Before we dive into each era, here's what makes this framework actually useful:
Taylor Swift didn't invent romantic aesthetics or modern design. What she did do was create cohesive emotional worlds—and that's what we're teaching you to build.
You'll learn:
How lighting changes emotion (and what you can DIY vs. when to hire pros)
How texture creates atmosphere (rentals, fabrics, natural elements)
How florals tell stories (and when grocery store flowers work beautifully)
How color palettes create feelings (not just "pretty combinations")
How sound + scent complete the emotional experience
When DIY becomes too heavy (and hiring a planner gives you your time back)
This works for:
Weddings
Milestone birthdays
Graduation parties
Anniversary celebrations
Corporate events
Holiday parties
The 5 Era-Inspired Wedding Vignettes
Now, let's explore each era. Remember: these aren't themes. They're emotional frameworks to help you design a wedding that feels cohesive and true to you.
Lover era romantic wedding design Cleveland - blush velvet lounge, soft lighting, romantic florals by Sterling Event Services
LOVER: Soft Romance + Pastel Glow
THE VIBE
Dreamy. Feminine. Romantic. Effortless.
Lover is for the couple who wants their wedding to feel like a warm embrace—romantic without being overly formal, soft without being childish.
COLOR PALETTE
Blush • Lavender • Cream • Soft Gold
BEST FOR
Seasons: Spring + early summer
Guest experience: Intimate + romantic
Budget lever: Warm lighting + candles (more impact than extra flowers)
CLEVELAND VENUE PAIRINGS
Shoreby Club (waterfront elegance with romantic views)
Chagrin Valley Hunt Club (classic garden setting)
InterContinental Cleveland (ballroom with soft lighting)
Real Cleveland wedding example: This era is perfect for a May ceremony at Shoreby Club with waterfront views during golden hour.
STYLING BREAKDOWN
Rentals (Pomp Parties): Blush velvet lounge seating, gold champagne bucket, soft cream linens
Florals (Sterling Event Services | Maribeth Mayer): Loose, airy low arrangements with movement—blush roses, white ranunculus, soft greenery
Glass Artistry (Sterling Event Services | Caroline Abbey): Handmade glass vases for romantic blooms
Cake (Sugar Me Desserterie): Blush ombré buttercream with delicate gold leaf accent
Lighting (Rock The House): Soft warm uplighting, pin spots on floral arrangements, candlelit glow
Styling Details (Sterling Event Services): Gold taper candles in varying heights, scattered votives, soft blush napkins
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM LOVER
1. Lighting Creates Softness
The Principle: Warm, diffused light = romantic intimacy
What Pros Do: Soft amber uplighting, pin spots on florals, layered candlelight
What You Can DIY: Dozens of pillar candles at varying heights, string lights with warm bulbs, pink or peach uplights ($50-100 rental)
When to Hire a Pro: Harsh overhead fluorescents that can't be dimmed, or seamless wireless uplighting throughout a large space
2. Texture Through Fabric & Rentals
The Principle: Soft velvet + flowing linens = tactile warmth
What Pros Do: Blush velvet lounge seating, soft cream table linens
What You Can DIY: Velvet throw pillows ($20-30 each), cheesecloth table runners, tulle draped over chairs
When to Hire a Pro: Full lounge furniture setups or specialty linens
3. Floral Design: Loose & Organic
The Principle: Movement creates romance; stiff = formal
What Pros Do: Loose, airy arrangements with trailing elements
What You Can DIY: Grocery store roses + ranunculus in simple glass vases, keep arrangements low, leave stems visible
When to Hire a Pro: Ceremony installations, complex garlands, or specific blooms requiring wholesale access
4. Personal Artistry: Handmade Touches
The Principle: One-of-a-kind pieces make celebrations feel uniquely yours
What Pros Do: Handmade glass vases, custom chandeliers, artisan pieces made specifically for your event
What You Can DIY: Thrifted vintage vases, handwritten place cards, personal photos or heirlooms
When to Hire a Pro: When you want handcrafted artisan pieces that become keepsakes—not mass-produced décor
5. When Planning Gets Too Heavy
You can DIY Lover if:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue is naturally romantic (garden, waterfront)
You have 2-3 friends who can help with setup day-of
You're okay with simple (candles + grocery florals)
You have the TIME and ENERGY to shop, coordinate, set up, and troubleshoot
Hire a planner if:
Your guest count is 50+
You're coordinating 5+ vendors
Your venue needs total transformation
You want to be present—not managing logistics
You don't have the time or energy—even if you technically could DIY
DESIGN DECISION FILTERS FOR LOVER
If your era is Lover, choose:
Lighting: Warm, soft, diffused
Texture: Velvet, flowing linens, soft fabrics
Florals: Loose, airy, romantic blooms
Color: Blush, lavender, cream, soft gold
Sound: Soft acoustic during cocktails, romantic classics during dinner
Scent: Rose, vanilla, peony
Avoid:
Cool white lighting, harsh black accents, too many hard edges, overly structured arrangements, loud upbeat music
This is your era? Here's how Sterling brings it to life…
1989 era modern minimal wedding Cleveland - disco balls, chrome accents, clean design by Sterling Event Services
1989: Modern Minimalism + Sparkle
THE VIBE
Clean. Confident. Bright. High-energy.
1989 is for the couple who wants sleek sophistication with just enough sparkle—modern but not cold, minimal but not boring.
COLOR PALETTE
Bright White • Chrome • Silver • Teal (accent)
BEST FOR
Seasons: Year-round (especially spring/summer for natural light)
Guest experience: High-energy + modern
Budget lever: One statement sparkle moment (disco balls grouped) instead of decorating everything
CLEVELAND VENUE PAIRINGS
The Madison (downtown modern elegance)
Ariel International Center (contemporary architecture)
Truss (industrial-chic with natural light)
The Honey Hill (modern greenhouse aesthetic)
Downtown rooftops (city skyline views)
Real Cleveland wedding example: This era shines at Truss with floor-to-ceiling windows and natural industrial architecture during a spring afternoon ceremony.
STYLING BREAKDOWN
Rentals (Pomp Parties): Acrylic ghost chairs, chrome coffee tables, white modern lounge seating
Florals (Sterling Event Services | Maribeth Mayer): Minimal white blooms, structural greenery, clean tight arrangements
Glass Artistry (Sterling Event Services | Caroline Abbey): Modern geometric glass pieces, clean-lined vases
Cake (Sugar Me Desserterie): Ultra-smooth white buttercream with silver geometric stripe
Lighting (Rock The House): Pin spotting on disco ball clusters (one "hero" sparkle moment), cool-toned uplighting
Styling Details (Sterling Event Services): Disco ball clusters (grouped, not scattered), chrome candleholders, white tapers
One statement sparkle moment beats scattered glitter everywhere.
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM 1989
1. Less is More (When Done Right)
The Principle: Restraint = sophistication; one statement moment > scattered décor
What Pros Do: One disco ball cluster moment, clean lines everywhere else
What You Can DIY: Group 5-7 disco balls at varying heights (Target, Amazon), white paper lanterns in clusters, one bold statement + minimal everywhere else
When to Hire a Pro: Structural installations (hanging elements require rigging) or if your minimalism needs to feel expensive
2. Lighting for Energy
The Principle: Bright, cool-toned light = modern confidence
What Pros Do: Cool-toned uplighting, pin spots on sparkle moments
What You Can DIY: String lights with clear bulbs, battery-operated pin spots, maximize natural light
When to Hire a Pro: Professional uplighting packages for evening events in venues without great natural light
3. Floral Design: Architectural & Tight
The Principle: Structure > romance; clean lines matter
What Pros Do: Minimal white blooms, structural greenery, tight arrangements
What You Can DIY: Single-stem white blooms in modern geometric vases, monstera leaves + white tulips
When to Hire a Pro: Large-scale structural installations or specific high-end blooms
4. Artisan Touches in Modern Design
The Principle: Handcrafted glass + modern aesthetic = elevated, not generic
What Pros Do: Custom geometric glass pieces, architectural vases, modern clean-lined artisan work
What You Can DIY: Clear glass cylinder vases (West Elm, CB2), modern geometric terrariums
When to Hire a Pro: Custom modern glass pieces that feel expensive and architectural
5. When Planning Gets Too Heavy
You can DIY 1989 if:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue is already modern/industrial
You have a clear vision and can execute minimal design
You have the TIME and ENERGY to source, coordinate, and install
Hire a planner if:
Your guest count is 50+
Your venue needs transformation
You want professional lighting to create the modern feel
You don't have the time or energy for details—even simple ones take time
DESIGN DECISION FILTERS FOR 1989
If your era is 1989, choose:
Lighting: Cool-toned, bright, clean
Texture: Smooth, modern, minimal
Florals: Structural, tight, architectural
Color: White, chrome, silver, teal accents
Sound: Upbeat pop during cocktails, high-energy dance hits
Scent: Citrus, fresh linen, eucalyptus
Avoid:
Warm amber lighting, soft romantic fabrics, scattered décor everywhere, heavy florals, slow ballads
This is your era? Here's how Sterling brings it to life…
Planning a graduation party instead? Your era framework works beautifully there too.
Download the Free Grad Party Checklist
〰️
Download the Free Grad Party Checklist 〰️
Reputation era dramatic wedding Cleveland - black and gold design, burgundy florals, cinematic lighting by Sterling Event Services
REPUTATION: Black + Gold Drama
THE VIBE
Bold. Dramatic. Cinematic. Luxurious.
Reputation is for the couple who wants their wedding to feel like a glamorous evening event—luxurious without being over-the-top, dramatic with restraint.
COLOR PALETTE
Black • Gold • Charcoal • Ivory • Deep Burgundy
BEST FOR
Seasons: Fall + winter (evening events)
Guest experience: Formal + dramatic + sophisticated
Budget lever: Warm amber lighting + layered candlelight (instant cinematic drama)
CLEVELAND VENUE PAIRINGS
Union Club (historic ballroom grandeur)
Tudor Arms (European elegance)
The 9 (downtown sophistication)
Real Cleveland wedding example: This era is perfect for Union Club in winter with a black-tie evening reception and dramatic ballroom lighting.
STYLING BREAKDOWN
Rentals (Pomp Parties): Black velvet lounge seating, gold accent tables, charcoal linens with texture
Florals (Sterling Event Services | Maribeth Mayer): Moody burgundy blooms—deep red roses, burgundy dahlias (dramatic but not heavy)
Glass Artistry (Sterling Event Services | Caroline Abbey): Gold-accented glass pieces, dramatic vases
Cake (Sugar Me Desserterie): Matte black buttercream with metallic gold drip
Lighting (Rock The House): Warm amber uplighting, pin spots on candlelight for dramatic shadows
Styling Details (Sterling Event Services): Gold taper candles in black candleholders, layered candlelight, black napkins with gold chargers
Drama with restraint—that's the Reputation magic.
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM REPUTATION
1. Drama Through Contrast
The Principle: Black + gold = instant glamour; restraint keeps it elegant
What Pros Do: Black velvet seating, gold accents, moody burgundy florals
What You Can DIY: Black tablecloths with gold chargers, gold taper candles in black candleholders, black napkins with gold napkin rings
When to Hire a Pro: Black velvet lounge furniture isn't easy to DIY; rental companies make this possible
2. Lighting Creates Mood
The Principle: Warm amber light + pin-spotted candles = cinematic shadows
What Pros Do: Amber uplighting, dramatic pin spots, layered candlelight
What You Can DIY: Dozens of gold taper candles at varying heights, amber-hued string lights or Edison bulbs
When to Hire a Pro: Seamless wireless uplighting or pin-spotting on specific focal points
3. Floral Design: Moody & Rich
The Principle: Deep burgundy + drama (but not heavy)
What Pros Do: Burgundy dahlias, deep red roses, restrained but impactful
What You Can DIY: Burgundy spray roses from grocery stores, low arrangements, dark greenery + burgundy blooms
When to Hire a Pro: Large dramatic installations or access to specialty burgundy blooms
4. Artisan Drama: Luxe Personal Touches
The Principle: Handcrafted details elevate drama from "themed party" to "luxurious event"
What Pros Do: Custom gold-accent glass pieces, artisan candleholders, handmade dramatic vessels
What You Can DIY: Gold-painted thrifted vases, black and gold vintage vessels, DIY gold leaf on simple glass pieces
When to Hire a Pro: Truly luxurious handcrafted pieces that photograph like fine art
5. When Planning Gets Too Heavy
You can DIY Reputation if:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue has good bones (historic, dramatic architecture)
You're comfortable with bold color choices
You have the TIME and ENERGY for detailed styling
Hire a planner if:
Your guest count is 50+
Your venue needs transformation
You need coordination for an evening event with complex lighting
You don't have the time or energy to execute dramatic design—it's detail-heavy
DESIGN DECISION FILTERS FOR REPUTATION
If your era is Reputation, choose:
Lighting: Warm amber, pin-spotted candles, dramatic shadows
Texture: Black velvet, gold accents, luxe fabrics
Florals: Moody burgundy, deep reds, restrained drama
Color: Black, gold, charcoal, ivory, deep burgundy
Sound: Moody instrumentals during cocktails, bold anthems later
Scent: Dark amber, tobacco, leather, red wine
Avoid:
Cool white lighting, pastel colors, overly bright spaces, casual fabrics, cheerful pop music
This is your era? Here's how Sterling brings it to life…
Folklore era cozy woodland wedding Cleveland - farm tables, warm lighting, fall florals by Sterling Event Services
FOLKLORE: Cozy Woodland Elegance
THE VIBE
Warm. Nostalgic. Intimate. Gathered.
Folklore is for the couple who wants their wedding to feel like an enchanted gathering—cozy without being casual, natural without being rustic.
COLOR PALETTE
Earth Tones • Rust • Sage • Warm Cream • Mushroom
BEST FOR
Seasons: Fall (peak season for Folklore)
Guest experience: Intimate + gathered + cozy luxe
Budget lever: Natural wood tables + warm lighting + dried elements (no water needed, lasts forever)
CLEVELAND VENUE PAIRINGS
Sapphire Creek Winery (intimate fall vineyard setting)
Hillbrook Club (garden elegance with warmth)
Mapleside Farms (outdoor orchard celebration)
Real Cleveland wedding example: This era is perfect for an October celebration at Sapphire Creek Winery with vineyard views and golden hour ceremony.
STYLING BREAKDOWN
Rentals (Pomp Parties): Natural wood farm tables, soft linen napkins, rustic wood benches (styled elegantly)
Florals (Sterling Event Services | Maribeth Mayer): Textural greens and dried elements, rust-toned blooms, sage greenery (organic, gathered feel)
Glass Artistry (Sterling Event Services | Caroline Abbey): Organic-shaped glass vases, handmade pieces with natural textures
Cake (Sugar Me Desserterie): Soft textured buttercream with fresh greenery accent
Lighting (Rock The House): Warm amber uplighting, lantern highlighting, cozy late-afternoon glow
Styling Details (Sterling Event Services): Layered lanterns at varying heights, cream taper candles, natural linen runners
Cozy elegance—not rustic DIY.
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM FOLKLORE
1. Texture Creates Coziness
The Principle: Natural elements + layered textures = warmth
What Pros Do: Natural wood tables, linen napkins, lanterns, dried elements
What You Can DIY: Wood slices as chargers, burlap or linen table runners, lanterns with battery-operated candles, dried pampas grass or wheat
When to Hire a Pro: Farm tables (rental-only) or large-scale dried floral installations
2. Lighting for Warmth
The Principle: Warm amber light + lanterns = cozy glow
What Pros Do: Warm amber uplighting, lantern clusters, late-afternoon glow
What You Can DIY: Lanterns with battery-operated candles, warm string lights (amber or Edison bulbs), maximize golden hour
When to Hire a Pro: Venue needs uplighting to create warmth (especially for evening events)
3. Floral Design: Organic & Gathered
The Principle: Textural, not perfectly arranged; gathered, not designed
What Pros Do: Dried elements, rust-toned blooms, sage greenery, organic vases
What You Can DIY: Grocery store blooms (rust mums, cream roses) with eucalyptus, dried pampas grass or wheat, Mason jars or ceramic vessels
When to Hire a Pro: Large ceremony installations, garlands, or specific seasonal blooms
4. Artisan Warmth: Handcrafted Organic Pieces
The Principle: Handmade glass + natural textures = elevated woodland (not Pinterest rustic)
What Pros Do: Organic-shaped handmade glass vases, textured vessels, artisan pieces that feel gathered
What You Can DIY: Thrifted ceramic vases, Mason jars wrapped in burlap or twine, vintage bottles
When to Hire a Pro: Truly elevated woodland design with artisan glass pieces that photograph beautifully
5. When Planning Gets Too Heavy
You can DIY Folklore if:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue is naturally rustic (barn, winery, outdoor space)
You love hands-on projects (dried florals, wood elements)
You have the TIME and ENERGY for hands-on styling and installation
Hire a planner if:
Your guest count is 50+
You're doing an outdoor event and need a rain plan
You want farm table rentals + specialty linens
You don't have the time or energy to source and install—Folklore looks effortless but takes work
DESIGN DECISION FILTERS FOR FOLKLORE
If your era is Folklore, choose:
Lighting: Warm amber, lanterns, golden hour glow
Texture: Natural wood, linen, dried elements
Florals: Organic, textural, rust and sage tones
Color: Earth tones, rust, sage, warm cream, mushroom
Sound: Folk/indie during cocktails, nostalgic singalongs during dinner
Scent: Cedar, pine, cinnamon, warm spices
Avoid:
Cool white lighting, chrome or metallic accents, overly polished finishes, stiff arrangements, electronic dance music
This is your era? Here's how Sterling brings it to life…
Midnights era after-dark glam wedding Cleveland - navy velvet, silver accents, sophisticated lighting by Sterling Event Services
MIDNIGHTS: Modern After-Dark Glam
THE VIBE
Sleek. Refined. Elevated. Mysterious.
Midnights is for the couple who wants their wedding to feel like a sophisticated late-night celebration—modern with vintage glamour, sleek with warmth.
COLOR PALETTE
Midnight Navy • Silver • Pearl White • Burgundy • Gold
BEST FOR
Seasons: Fall + winter (evening events)
Guest experience: Sophisticated + elevated + after-dark glamour
Budget lever: Cool uplighting + warm candlelight contrast (tension creates sophistication)
CLEVELAND VENUE PAIRINGS
Downtown lofts (urban sophistication)
The 9 (historic ballroom meets modern edge)
Truss (industrial chic after dark)
Eden Rooftop Lounge at The 9 (rooftop city views)
The Marble Room (architectural elegance)
Real Cleveland wedding example: This era is perfect for a December evening ceremony at The 9 with city skyline views and sophisticated after-dark energy.
STYLING BREAKDOWN
Rentals (Pomp Parties): Navy velvet lounge seating, silver accent tables, reflective textures
Florals (Sterling Event Services | Maribeth Mayer): Burgundy florals (dramatic but refined)—deep red roses, burgundy dahlias
Glass Artistry (Sterling Event Services | Caroline Abbey): Sleek glass pieces with metallic accents
Cake (Sugar Me Desserterie): Midnight navy buttercream with silver celestial accents
Lighting (Rock The House): Cool-toned uplighting + warm golden candlelight (contrast is key), pin spots on focal points
Styling Details (Sterling Event Services): Gold taper candles, navy napkins with silver chargers, clustered votives
After-dark glamour that feels elevated, not trendy.
WHAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM MIDNIGHTS
1. Contrast Creates Sophistication
The Principle: Cool tones + warm candlelight = refined mystery
What Pros Do: Navy velvet seating, silver accents, warm golden candles
What You Can DIY: Navy table linens with silver chargers, gold taper candles, silver mercury glass votives
When to Hire a Pro: Navy velvet lounge furniture requires specialty rentals
2. Lighting for After-Dark Elegance
The Principle: Cool uplighting + warm candlelight = sophisticated contrast
What Pros Do: Cool-toned uplighting, warm golden candlelight, pin spots on focal points
What You Can DIY: Lots of gold taper candles, string lights with warm bulbs (contrast against cool space), battery-operated uplights in cool tones
When to Hire a Pro: Professional wireless uplighting for seamless color transitions and control
3. Floral Design: Refined & Moody
The Principle: Burgundy + whites = dramatic but not heavy
What Pros Do: Burgundy blooms, white accents, refined (not wild)
What You Can DIY: Burgundy spray roses + white blooms from grocery stores, tight low arrangements, silver or mercury glass vases
When to Hire a Pro: Large installations or specialty blooms
4. Artisan Elegance: Refined Handcrafted Touches
The Principle: Sleek handmade glass + metallic accents = sophisticated, not generic
What Pros Do: Custom glass pieces with metallic details, refined vessels, artisan work that feels expensive
What You Can DIY: Mercury glass votives and vases, silver-painted thrifted vessels, metallic-rimmed glassware
When to Hire a Pro: Truly refined artisan pieces that elevate the entire aesthetic
5. When Planning Gets Too Heavy
You can DIY Midnights if:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue is already sleek/modern
You're comfortable with navy + burgundy + silver color story
You have the TIME and ENERGY for sophisticated styling
Hire a planner if:
Your guest count is 50+
Your venue needs lighting transformation for evening elegance
You want navy velvet lounge rentals
You don't have the time or energy to execute refined design—it requires precision
This is your era? Here's how Sterling brings it to life…
DESIGN DECISION FILTERS FOR MIDNIGHTS
If your era is Midnights, choose:
Lighting: Cool-toned uplighting + warm candlelight contrast
Texture: Navy velvet, silver accents, reflective textures
Florals: Refined burgundy, dramatic but restrained
Color: Midnight navy, silver, pearl white, burgundy, gold
Sound: Smooth jazz during cocktails, late-night dance energy
Scent: Sandalwood, dark musk, bergamot
Avoid:
All-warm lighting (need contrast), pastel colors, casual fabrics, overly bright spaces, country music
How to Choose Your Era (Emotion-First Framework)
"Your home should tell the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love."
— Nate Berkus, interior designer + author
The same principle applies to your wedding. Not just how it looks—how it feels when someone walks into the room.
Step 1: Start with Emotion (Before Color)
"I picture the feeling I get when I'm with them."
— Taylor Swift
Before you choose a color palette or scroll Pinterest, ask yourself:
"What do I want my guests to FEEL when they walk into my wedding?"
Not "What do I want it to look like?" Not "What colors should we use?" What do I want them to FEEL?
Romantic and soft?
Bold and dramatic?
Cozy and intimate?
Sleek and modern?
Write down 3 feeling words. Then choose the era that matches those feelings.
Step 2: Let Your Venue + Season Guide You
Your Cleveland wedding venue and season will naturally guide your era.
A fall winery wedding at Sapphire Creek? That's begging for Folklore.
A winter ballroom at Union Club? Reputation was made for that space.
A spring garden ceremony at Shoreby Club? Lover energy.
A modern rooftop downtown? 1989 or Midnights.
Don't fight your venue. Enhance what it's already giving you.
If you're reading this thinking, "I know how I want it to feel—but I don't know how to translate that," that's exactly what I do in consultations.
Do you want to map your era + your venue + your must-haves?
Step 3: Don't Over-Explain It
Here's the most important part:
Your guests don't need to "get" your era. They just need to FEEL the vibe.
You're not creating a themed party. You're using an emotional framework to make design decisions that feel cohesive.
If a guest walked into your Folklore wedding without knowing anything about Taylor Swift, they should just think:
"Wow, this feels warm and gathered and beautiful."
That's it. That's the goal.
FOLKLORE: Cozy Woodland Elegance
When DIY Becomes Too Heavy (And What to Do Instead)
Here's the honest truth after 30+ years:
DIY works beautifully for some events. But there's a tipping point where DIY stops being fun and starts being overwhelming—or where you simply don't have the time or energy to take it on, even if you technically could.
You Can Probably DIY If:
Your guest count is 50 or fewer
Your venue is naturally beautiful (minimal transformation needed)
You have 2-3 reliable friends helping with setup
You're okay with simple (candles, grocery florals, basic rentals)
Your event is during the day (natural light helps immensely)
You're NOT the bride (if you're throwing a party for someone else, DIY is more manageable)
You have the TIME to shop, coordinate, troubleshoot, and set up
You have the ENERGY to handle the mental load of planning + executing
Hire a Planner If:
Your guest count is 50+ ← This is where everything changes
You're coordinating 5+ vendors (caterer, photographer, DJ, florist, rental company)
Your venue is a blank space that needs total transformation
You're the bride and want to actually enjoy your wedding day
You're doing an evening event that needs lighting design
You want specialty rentals (velvet lounge furniture, farm tables, etc.)
You need a rain plan for outdoor events
The word "timeline" makes you anxious
You don't have the TIME—your work schedule, family obligations, or life circumstances don't allow for extensive planning
You don't have the ENERGY—even if you technically could DIY, you'd rather invest your mental and emotional bandwidth elsewhere
Here's the truth:
Most couples who come to us after trying to DIY say the same thing: "I wish I'd hired you from the start."
Not because DIY is impossible—but because 50+ guests changes everything. The timeline complexity, the vendor coordination, the day-of logistics… it's exponentially harder.
Our Wedding Planning Packages start at $3,400+ because we remove the mental load and give you your time back. You get to be present for your celebration—not managing it.
The Middle Ground: Partial Planning
You don't have to choose all-or-nothing. Many couples DIY the design (they choose colors, rent items, buy florals) but hire a planner for:
Day-of coordination (someone manages vendors, timeline, emergencies)
Vendor recommendations (we know who works well together)
Setup supervision (we make sure your vision is executed correctly)
Sterling Event Services offers:
Wedding Planning Packages start at $3,400+ (includes design direction, vendor coordination, timeline creation, and wedding-day management)
Partial Planning: Custom packages (you design, we execute)
Day-of Coordination: Available (timeline management + vendor coordination)
Do you want to map your era + your venue + your must-haves?
Before/after or side-by-side showing venue with and without professional lighting
5 Ways Cleveland Venues Get Era Design Wrong (And How to Fix It)
After 30+ years working with Cleveland's best venues, I've seen these mistakes repeated:
"Rooms should not be put together for show but to nourish one's wellbeing."
— Albert Hadley, legendary interior designer
1. They Over-Decorate
The Mistake: Decorating every surface—ceremony arch, centerpieces, cake table, lounge area, bar cart, escort card display.
The Fix: Choose ONE statement moment and let everything else breathe.
Examples:
Lover: A blush velvet lounge with romantic candlelight
1989: Disco ball clusters that catch the light
Reputation: A dramatic black + gold dessert display
Folklore: A natural wood farm table with layered lanterns
Midnights: Navy velvet lounge with moody burgundy florals
Ask yourself: "What's the ONE thing I want guests to photograph and remember?" Build that beautifully. Keep everything else minimal.
2. They Skip Lighting Entirely
The Mistake: Spending $8,000 on oversized centerpieces and $0 on lighting.
The Fix: Budget $1,500-$3,000+ for professional lighting design.
Lighting transforms your venue more than any floral arrangement ever will.
Soft warm uplighting creates romantic glow (Lover)
Pin spotting on disco balls adds sparkle (1989)
Amber candlelit spotlighting shifts the mood (Reputation/Folklore)
Cool-toned uplighting feels modern and sleek (Midnights)
Rock The House designed the lighting for all 5 eras in this collaboration—and it's what makes each one feel completely different.
3. They Don't Consider Guest Flow
The Mistake: Rows of chairs with nowhere for guests to gather comfortably.
The Fix: Create intentional lounge moments where people actually connect.
Blush velvet lounge near the bar (Lover)
Acrylic seating with chrome tables by windows (1989)
Black velvet lounge in a corner for conversation (Reputation)
Natural wood benches for gathered moments (Folklore)
Navy velvet lounge with city views (Midnights)
Pomp Parties' rentals aren't just decoration—they create functional gathering spaces.
4. They Forget About Sound
The Mistake: Random Spotify playlist with no emotional flow.
The Fix: Curate your playlist by mood to create emotional continuity.
Lover: Soft acoustic during cocktails → romantic classics during dinner
1989: Upbeat pop during cocktails → high-energy dance hits
Reputation: Moody instrumentals during cocktails → bold anthems later
Folklore: Folk/indie during cocktails → nostalgic singalongs
Midnights: Smooth jazz during cocktails → late-night dance energy
Work with your DJ to create 3 distinct playlist moods: cocktail hour (conversational), dinner (intimate), dancing (celebratory).
5. They Make Dessert an Afterthought
The Mistake: Ordering the cake last, placing it on a random table, cutting it quickly.
The Fix: Design your cake + dessert display as an editorial focal point.
Sugar Me Desserterie's cakes aren't just dessert—they're design moments that match each era's aesthetic.
Give your cake a dedicated styled moment: dramatic lighting, complementary florals, and time for guests to gather around it before the cut.
Elegant infographic or styled flat lay showing budget breakdown
Budget-Smart Luxury: What to Invest In
You don't need a celebrity budget to create a celebrity-level aesthetic.
Here's where to invest for maximum impact—and what you can DIY to save money.
If You Spend Money Anywhere, Spend It Here:
1. LIGHTING ($1,500–$3,000+)
Transforms entire venue more than $5,000 in extra florals. Evening events, venues with harsh fluorescents, dramatic transformations—this is non-negotiable.
2. ONE STATEMENT RENTAL MOMENT ($1,200–$2,500+)
Velvet lounge seating, modern pieces, or farm tables create gathering spaces + incredible photos.
3. FLORALS AT KEY MOMENTS ONLY ($2,500–$4,500+)
Ceremony + head table + one installation—not everywhere. Professional design, wholesale blooms, installations.
4. PROFESSIONAL PLANNING ($3,400+)
Removes the mental load. Gives you your time back. You get to be present for your wedding day—not managing it.
If You Want to Save Without Sacrificing the Vibe:
Repurpose ceremony florals for reception
Choose seasonal blooms (fresher + less expensive)
Use candles + rentals instead of oversized centerpieces everywhere
Create one hero photo moment instead of decorating every surface
Skip favors (guests don't remember them)
Grocery store florals in simple arrangements
Daytime events (natural light = free lighting design)
Sample "Era Budget" Breakdown
The framework works at any budget level—it's about intentional choices, not expensive decoration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Do I need to be a Taylor Swift fan to use this framework?
A: Absolutely not. This framework is about designing from emotion first—romantic, dramatic, cozy, modern, sleek. Taylor's eras just happen to be perfect examples of cohesive emotional aesthetics.
Q: Can I mix eras?
A: One primary era creates the strongest emotional clarity—that's where the magic happens. That said, thoughtful transitions can work beautifully when guided intentionally. For example, a softer Lover ceremony flowing into a higher-energy 1989 reception is a natural progression.
Q: What if my venue doesn't "match" an era?
A: Every venue can work with the right era—it's about enhancing what's already there. A historic ballroom naturally leans Reputation. A winery begs for Folklore. A modern loft wants 1989 or Midnights. Work with your venue's personality, not against it.
Q: How do I make sure my vendors work well together?
A: This is critical. Ask your planner (or ask vendors directly): "Have you worked with [other vendor] before? How do you coordinate on wedding day?" The right answer isn't just "yes, we've worked together"—it's "yes, and here's how we make it seamless for you."
Q: What's the investment range for an era-inspired wedding?
A: See the budget breakdown table above. The framework works at any budget level—it's about intentional choices, not expensive decoration.
Q: Where was this styled shoot photographed?
A: This was a styled collaboration created for inspiration and education at Pomp Parties in Cleveland, Ohio.
Not Planning a Wedding? This Framework Works for Graduations Too
Q: Can I use this for a graduation party or other celebration?
A: Absolutely! The framework works for any celebration. A Folklore-inspired backyard graduation party with natural wood tables and warm lighting? Beautiful. A 1989-inspired sweet sixteen with disco balls and modern energy? Perfect.
Speaking of graduation parties—if you're planning one in Cleveland, I have a free resource for you too.
Download the FREE Ultimate Graduation Party Planning Checklist with complete timeline, vendor guide, and rain plan strategy (essential for Ohio weather!).
Planning Packages start at $2,750 (vendor coordination + timeline management)
Décor Only: $1,500 (styling + setup, additional décor and installation fees apply)
Ready to Design Your Era?
If you've made it this far, you're serious about creating a wedding that feels true to you.
Your wedding deserves an emotional signature.
Step 1: Download the Free Wedding Era Guide
Inside, you'll get:
How to identify your emotional signature (before choosing colors)
10 elegant design strategies you can apply to ANY wedding
Cleveland venue recommendations by era
Budget-smart investment strategies
Why vendor chemistry matters (and how to vet your creative team)
DOWNLOAD THE ERA GUIDE → Get the 10 design strategies + Cleveland venue pairings
Perfect if you're overwhelmed by Pinterest and want your wedding to feel cohesive.
Step 2: Book a Consultation
Let's talk about your vision, your venue, and how to design a celebration that feels like YOUR story.
In your consultation, we'll:
Identify your emotional signature (your era, if you will)
Discuss your venue + season
Build a vendor team strategically (vendors who actually collaborate)
Invest your budget wisely (where to prioritize, where to save)
Wedding Planning Packages start at $3,400+
Your wedding date is closer than you think. Cleveland's best vendors book 12–18 months out. Let's map your era, your venue, and your team — before your date is gone.
Janet Abbey portrait or Sterling Event Services branding shot
Final Thoughts: Trends Fade. Stories Stay.
After 30+ years and 700+ celebrations, here's what I know for sure:
The weddings that feel unforgettable aren't the ones that followed every trend.
They're the ones that felt like the couple who created them.
Your wedding doesn't need to look like a Taylor Swift concert.
It doesn't need to copy Pinterest.
It doesn't need to chase trends.
It just needs to feel like YOU.
That's what era-inspired wedding design is really about.
Your wedding deserves an emotional signature.
And I'd love to help you create it.
If you're looking for a Cleveland wedding planner who combines logistics, design, and emotional storytelling, Sterling Event Services would love to help.
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About the Author, Janet Abbey
Cleveland, Ohio + Northeast Ohio
30+ Years | 700+ Celebrations
