It’s easy to forget that Steel Magnolias—one of the great dramedies of the 1980s—kicks off with the preparations for a big ol’ Southern wedding. That’s where we first meet the film’s firecracker women: There’s mother of the bride-to-be, M’Lynn (Sally Field); hair stylist Truvy (Dolly Parton); beauty assistant Annelle (Daryl Hannah); town grouch Oiser (Shirley McLaine); Oiser’s bestie, Clairee (Olympia Dukakis); and, of course, the “blush and bashful” bride herself, Shelby (Julia Roberts). But even without that all-star cast and their unforgettable one-liners, Steel Magnolias would be worth a watch for its over-the-top wedding. Think: a red velvet armadillo cake, outrageous guests, and a cotton-candy-pink color palette.
