A Modern Watercolor Pattern Invitation Inspired By Old World Portugual

Oftentimes brides come to us hoping we can bring a modern twist to classic styles they have been inspired by in the past. We are always up for the challenge to get creative and make innovative designs with traditional elements. Inspired by the iconic Portuguese tiles from a 16th century chapel, #CeciBride Fabianna came to us with dreams of a blue and yellow pattern that brought old world Portugal into the new day and age.

We chose a crisp white envelope to enclose the invitation with custom stamps that mimicked the authentic tiles that were the focus of our design. Inside, a vibrant liner featured our hand drawn pattern detailed with expressive flourishes, dot art, and dimensional shading to bring a rustic feel to the watercolor painting. The liner bled into the back of the invitation where the same design was shown for a seamless look when the guests opened the envelope. The invitation incorporated a yellow beveled edge which peeked out from the envelope and revealed the event details in playful royal blue script. The couple's custom monogram sat at the top of the invitation, and was also carried onto several of the event accessories.

For the insert cards, we drew inspiration from another tile design whose delicate print lent itself to smaller bordering on the reply card and throughout the invitation suite in graphic flourishes. The entire invitation suite was an extension of the beauty we found in these traditional Portuguese tiles. We believe that incorporating the history and culture with a modern spin is a unique way to connect artistry across time.

See our mood board and evolution below to watch how the inspiration from these tiles developed in every piece of this old world Portugal wedding suite.