Turn Your Reception into a Glam Masquerade Ball

We're feeling inspired by the pre-wedding masked ball hosted by newlyweds Salma Hayek and fashion mogul François-Henri Pinault held at the Punta Della Dogana in Venice, Italy last Friday. Although most of us can't pull of a multi-million dollar, weekend long nuptial celebration in Europe, we can certainly borrow some of Hayek's best wedding ideas! Masquerade party anyone?

Using this theme for your reception (or rehearsal dinner even) will give your wedding a fun, unforgettable twist -- and is sure to be a crowd pleaser! Doesn't everyone love a little mystery? Hayek and Pinault hosted a black-tie affair with guests arriving in black and gold Venetian Carnivale-style masks. Here's how to pull off a similar affair:

Your Invitations: Clue your guests in to the theme early on with a one-sheet reception invitation, like the one shown here from invitationconsultants.com. Be sure there's a mask somewhere on the stationery -- it will help encourage all guests to dress the part.

Your Colors: The color palette for a party like this is endless. You can work in rich, Carnivale-esque tones like deep plums, vibrant greens and metallic accents for a fall or winter wedding, or go wild with bright pinks, oranges, and blues for a spring or summer affair.

Your Masks: You and your future hubby's masks should stand out; you can find authentic-looking Venetian masks on several websites. (I love the gold one shown here from MaskItalia, and this fun and affordable bulk set from Oriental Trading Company.) And, of course these fun little face masks can double as your wedding favors!

Your Venue and Decor: Choose an older venue such as a theater or ballroom to create the perfect ambience for the celebration. A masquerade theme allows for extravagance in decor so feel free to embrace your secret love for feathers, a classic Carnivale accent. I recommend sliding them into your centerpieces or using them for added style accents on your napkin treatments.

Your Menu: Serve finger foods (guests will have masks in one hand!) for your appetizers, and whatever you'd like for your main course. But don't you dare skip the chance to serve unforgettably styled cake -- this one's a masterpiece from Sweet Cakes by Rebecca. Go for a lavish cake boasting both harlequin patterns and a mini mask to truly wow your guests!