Mood Boards
Mood Boards: meant to spark the imagination and inspire senses.
Did you know, professional interior designers and stylists use mood boards all the time? There is no reason why they cannot be used for any type of event or DIY project.
Wikipedia defines a Mood Board as, “a type of visual presentation or ‘collage’ consisting of images, text, and samples of objects in a composition. It can be based on a set topic or can be any material chosen at random. A mood board can be used to convey a general idea or feeling about a particular topic. They may be physical or digital and can be effective presentation tools.”
We define them as “visual vibes”, a visual representation or roadmap for event design.
Whether planning a wedding, corporate event, resort retreat or a family gathering at home, having an idea of the aesthetic and guest experience for the event is a great starting point. A carefully curated Mood Board can assist with this important step.
Mood boards can be physical, collages on poster or cork board and bullet journals or digital, on your computer, phone, or Pinterest. Digital makes it easier to share with your design and planning team.
Get creative by choosing a favourite destination, photo, painting, or piece of art. What thoughts do these items convey? What event inspiration can be drawn from them?
A destination can mean different things to different people.
Take Niagara Falls for instance. The following three mood boards are all inspired by this famous, Canadian destination but differ greatly in aesthetics, mood and feeling.
sunshine, spectacular sunset, bright, delicate colour pallet of orange, yellow and white, romance and warmth
excitement, bold colour pallet of electric blue and hot pink, movement, and energy
naturalist, autumn colour pallet of warm, earthy tones including muted greens, browns and oranges, outdoor elements, light refreshments and fur family inclusion
Some key elements to consider when curating a Mood Board:
- The board should inspire a creative concept beyond a collection of nice pictures. The creative concept should not be confused with a theme. It should tell a story. Using inspirational imagery can evoke emotions you wish to convey.
- Select a colour pallet and keep it consistent throughout. Choosing a favourite colour could be a good place to start. Make sure all parties agree and decide if this will be the complimenting colour or the dominating colour.
- Choose a typestyle font that compliments the design and colour pallet for save the date notes, formal and informal invitations, signs, programs, etc., should all embrace the same typestyle font. Type fonts can also set the mood for the event.
Design Board vs. Mood Board
A Mood Board is your starting point, the inspiration behind the design. Design Boards are created using the Mood Board as a guide and focus tool. A Design Board will include the elements and pieces that will be used. i.e., place settings, florals, wardrobe colours, venue selection, etc.
Vision Board vs Mood Board or Design Board
Vision Boards are about your direction in life. Mood Boards and Design Boards are planning tools.
Sharing a Mood Board with the design and planning team is an integral part of successful communication. Many are surprised by the design elements that are inspired by just one favourite photograph or painting. A brainstorming session with a professional planner can uncover a great deal of inspiration.
