photo: Radelle Jensen

What’s Your Wedding Style?

By Jen Masseau

Are you rustic, classic or minimalist? Finding your wedding personality can be more challenging than the most complicated seating plan. Start by defining your couple style, then hone in on these quintessential wedding themes to see which speaks loudest to both of you.

CLASSIC CHIC
For a timeless fête, decorate with a simple two-colour combo like cream and millennial pink, navy and gold, or black and white. A hotel ballroom or banquet hall with muted wall-paper and sparkling chandeliers will give you the elegant vibe you’re after. For your stationery, modern motifs like stripes or polka dots—or a custom designed monogram—add perfect personalization. Tight bunches of white or red roses, or looser arrangements of tulips, peonies or hydrangeas are always in style.

VINTAGE ROMANCE
Vintage style is all about romantic touches. An outdoor space with a bit of rustic charm works well, but a homey or historic indoor venue also fits the bill. Choose a dusky palette in shades of peach, lilac or sage. Hang handpainted wooden signs and finish with hits of brass and gold. When it comes to tableware, consider mismatched dishes and silverware, accented with antique teacups. For flowers, try delicate wildflowers or baby’s breath in mason jars or thrifted milkglass vases.

wedding style roses kiss couple
photo: Sirtravelalot/Shutterstock

LUXE GLAMOUR
You believe there’s no such thing as being too over-the-top. Foil or letterpress stationery sets the stage for an extravagant affair right from the start. A grand, chandelier-lit ballroom is pretty much the only venue choice befitting your regal dreams. For florals, opt for a Kardashian/West-inspired flower wall for the ceremony (and #weddingselfies) and adorn your reception space with liberal cascades of roses. Monochromatic palettes work best when packing in this much luxury.

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NOUVEAU BOHEMIAN
An outdoor venue is a no-brainer for the modern hippie. For your ceremony, exchange vows beneath an archway of organic branches and line the aisle with vintage Turkish rugs. For bouquets, opt for lush, cascading styles with lots of greenery—maybe even succulents. This look works equally as well in a palette of rich jewel tones or desert-inspired neutrals. At the reception, a family-style meal served at candlelit banquet tables kicks off the laid-back vibe. And make your party glow with miles of twinkling fairy lights.

wedding style contemporary couple vows candles
photo: Alex Gukalov/Shutterstock

CONTEMPORARY MINIMALIST
For the understated couple who believe less really can be more, a clean, minimalist style puts every detail into sharp focus. It’s key to make sure each element is well chosen: Seek out a light-filled venue with architectural interest, like an industrial loft or art gallery. For decor, go for matte finishes accented with mixed metals and acrylic in a neutral palette. Ask your florist for restrained, sculptural arrangements—or forego blooms altogether in favour of clusters of glowing pillar candles in varying heights.

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URBAN COOL
Want to wear a black dress or leather jacket over your gown? Go for it! Thinking of foregoing the bridal party? Forget ’em! There’s really no need to follow wedding “rules” just because that’s how it’s supposed to be done. Choose an alternative venue like a favourite bar or local brewery. Skip the formal seating arrangement and turn your reception into a music-fuelled cocktail party. Style centrepieces to reflect your interests, and ask your photographer to find a graffiti-filled alley for your photos.