As plans for the wedding day plough on, many couples choose to use a motif as a theme for their wedding. This is used to tie together all aspects of the wedding, be that the invitations, hair accessories or cake decoration. Having a clear-cut theme can also help to focus the planning and give it some direction to cut down on that "there's so much choice!" feeling.

What should you use as your motif? You're going to want something that conveys the mood of your wedding and yet something that is not going to have you pulling your hair out in distress when you can't find any stationery with your choice on. If you are set on having bats as a recurring theme, do be prepared to find a long time searching for related items.

For those who are after something a little more convenient, what could be more romantic than a heart? Symbolizing love and romance, it is an instantly recognizable motif and matching items can be found with minimal effort. Perfect! Better yet, I have found some of the cutest, smartest and most stylish heart-themed items to save you even more time.

Stationery

The stationery is the first glimpse that your guests will get to your theme. Matching your invitations to your theme will make a lasting impression- and you may find that guests go along with the theme for wedding cards or gifts. Invitation Consultants sell a huge range of heart themed stationery. Available in a range of forms from invitations to place cards and starting at less than $3 each, these adorable designs can be used as a running theme right throughout your wedding.

Outfits

Hearts can be used as a theme in other areas of your wedding. Try incorporating them into your outfits. You could wear a tiara with a heart motif, or wear heart-themed jewelry. My Bridesmaids Gifts sell a Love Heart jewelry set that fits the theme perfectly. For more traditional jewelry, how about dressing your flower girls in heart print dresses?

Favors

Favors are a very simple way to convey your theme. They can consist of anything at all and therefore, no matter what your theme you should be able to easily find favors for your guests. Many couples still prefer to use edible favors. Small packets of Love Hearts sweets are popular at the moment, and you can even get them personalized with your names on the wrappers at www.lovehearts.com. Chocolate lovers can try foil-wrapped chocolate hearts in a color to match their theme  from www.chocolatefantasies.com. For something a little different, how about heart-shaped photo frames or candles for your guests? Perhaps scented hearts or trinket boxes. Try the home department at Laura Ashley  for some beautiful heart-themed ideas.

Cake

The cake is the focal point of the reception. They can be as crazy as you like, so why not choose a cake that is based around your motif? Louisville Wedding Cakes make a bold red and black cake with hearts decorating the icing- the perfect statement cake. Individual cakes are very popular at the moment and these can also be found in heart themes. Carrie's Cakes sell adorable cupcakes with tiny heart detailing.

Hearts are a beautiful way to tie the different aspects of your wedding together. You could even try personalizing them by using your initials inside the heart. Many companies will be happy to add these to their existing designs. What better way to start your marriage than with the very symbol of love and passion itself?