Matthew Robbins is a name synonymous with beautiful events and thoughtful details, but when I think of Matthew’s work, the first thing that comes to mind is the word INVENTIVE! The NYC designer, who is a frequent contributor to Martha Stewart Weddings and numerous other wedding and style publications, has just released his first book – and it’s filled with all of those creative ideas he is known for. The stunning book, Matthew Robbins’ Inspired Weddings, shows how any object that’s special to you can be used as the inspiration for your wedding decor – a concept that we love! Today we’re super lucky to get to share an excerpt in which Matthew uses treasured old schoolhouse maps to create a drop-dead gorgeous wedding color palette and decor design concept for a modern wedding with a pretty vintage touch.

Excerpt from Matthew Robbins’ Inspired Weddings: Designing Your Big Day with Favorite Objects and Family Treasures:

Why a Schoolhouse Map? When I was an art student in San Francisco, nearly every penny I had went into my art; I was always searching for cool objects to inspire me. Inside one of my favorite shops, I discovered these large schoolhouse maps, and, though I couldn’t afford them at the time, I knew I had to have them. I decided to offer the friendly shop owner some of my artwork as a trade for the maps and, to my absolute delight, she agreed. I’ve kept them stored away forever, knowing that some day I would pull them out for something really special.

Maps instantly conjure up thoughts of travel, enticing us with all the wonderful destinations the world has to offer. I enjoy staring at them, tracing my finger from here to there, wondering when I’ll have the opportunity to explore all the places I long to visit. The idea of a treasure map intrigues me as well – it holds the possibility that something wonderful is out there waiting for you, if only you can locate the big X that marks the spot. I tapped into this inspiration by featuring lots of silvery and glinting pieces that feels as if they might have just been discovered inside some sunken, newly salvaged treasure chest.

What About the Palette? I love the colors used in these fantastic old maps: the pale pinks, creams, greens and yellows, and those wide expanses of watery blue that come together to create this beautiful, vintage palette. The black graphic detailing is inspiring as well.

Who Is the Client? This inspiration is perfect for the couple that loves classic details, but wants to avoid a stuffy, formal event. I can’t help but imagine a bride who wants to accomodate her mother’s wish to host the event at the local yacht club, yet is trying to infuse the space with her own sense of romance and effortless style.

When and Where? A slightly more Victorian venue would be lovely with an inspiration like this, maybe the local country club, or perhaps the nearest botanical garden. I can also picture and map-infused wedding in an elegant white tent by the water, be it a beach, a river, or a beautiful lake. I definitely envision an event like this taking place in the spring or summer.

My Focus: I’m drawn to how old world and rustic and yet chic and modern maps can be. I show here how to incorporate all of these styles. You can blend romantic decor classics, like vintage silver and cherry blossoms, with a more casual, contemporary aesthetic, ending up with the best of both worlds.

Check out Matthew’s stunning new book for page after page of beautiful and creative wedding inspiration just like this, and visit our Wedding Inspiration Gallery for real wedding photos and ideas of all kinds!