![Bride and groom kissing outdoor at minimalist wedding](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.brides.com/thmb/HiOzsPPXznYoAGRBIb_FCsLtV8E=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/minimal1-8df3c3aac2ac44f885868da19c67bed7.jpg)
Photo by Mark Spooner Photography
When planning your wedding day, you may think you need loaded centerpieces, layers of linens for your table settings, or overflowing floral chandeliers interspersed with string lighting to wow your guests. But there’s also much to be said for the minimalist concept, where less is more. And let us tell you, there is beauty in simplicity.
Rather than eliminating details, a clean look merely makes them intentional. Without the fuss, there is nothing to distract from the elements that do remain, allowing them to stand out as a focal point and giving them more meaning. In a ceremony, a minimalist look points the attention right where it should be—on the happy couple. And at a wedding reception, it enables the natural beauty and light of the venue to shine through.
A minimalist wedding often manifests in a few ways. Organic minimalism features a lot of white with accents of lush greenery, while industrial minimalism is where urban meets rustic style. Then there’s modern minimalism, which loves to play up shapes and geometry, and romantic minimalism, with ethereal linens or elegant calligraphy here or there. And more often than not, the minimalist style favors a neutral palette for a soft and airy look. But that’s not to say you can’t throw in a spot of color, which provides an unexpected and personalized twist. It’s up to you to make the look your own, but no matter which way you go, it promises to be crisp and classic with underlying sophistication.
You’d be surprised at how little it takes to elevate your minimalist wedding style. Here are 30 ideas to spark your own twist.
Create a Focal Point
![Delicate greenery on a white wall at the wedding reception venue](https://www.brides.com/thmb/d-DKhlZQB_8QoSh3VftNg0GomnM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71dcbe5800cd3d7c280_1-fa8ab72933c348f0951764c253ca8373.jpg)
Photo by Love is a Big Deal
Two vines of crawling greenery create a bold statement in their simplicity and serve as the sole backdrop for the head table.
Contrast Neutrals With Naturals
![Natural wood reception table with greenery and white place settings](https://www.brides.com/thmb/NQNQiK1aF-ZucaTCKCwhUL7NRtE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/LauraKirkWedding-Meraki-858-72533af546cf429f987dcb8a177d56c0.jpg)
Photo by Meraki Wedding Photography
Simple white plates and flowers, paired with greenery, look charming placed on a natural wood guest table.
Go Geometric
![Two-tier modern wedding cake with marble design](https://www.brides.com/thmb/KWA1Ss04R2POfvUw15beEO14fMs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71ce330984529fc2ffc_3-1a21509ecd554f688cf20e05eca32671.jpg)
Photo by Miramar Photo
A hexagon-shaped, two-tiered modern cake with marble print is minimal while still being a showstopper.
Limit Ceremony Décor
![Wooden ceremony chairs decorated with delicate greenery](https://www.brides.com/thmb/K-7IB71Pf34PZzsS0jFOVArepwk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71de330984529fc2ffe_4-f04142eb47a94326a7020a5ac8098eb8.jpg)
Photo by Heart + Sparrow Photography
Bare wooden ceremony chairs with a single strand of greens are raw in nature.
Add Angles to Your Altar
![Metal diamond altar backdrop at outdoor desert wedding](https://www.brides.com/thmb/5Ujz9weR17B114hSJXvmoUw_iY0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71d1fc7a71d292037fb_5-0b8d7656157e4be1935ba9d6b35cadb4.jpg)
Photo by Laura Goldenberger
Angular metal squares bring a touch of urbanity to the outdoors as a minimalist altar backdrop.
Mix High and Low
![Cocktail hour table with high and low setup](https://www.brides.com/thmb/m9qyv5O_BvnazxkLM55J3-AgYgE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/highandlow-935e7479493a42a79faba055fc01ca9f.jpg)
Photo by Holtz Wedding Photography
This charcuterie station remains uncluttered thanks to the creative placement of utensils and flower arrangements above the table. It also makes for an eye-catching display.
Include Lucite Signage
![Lucite welcome sign at modern wedding](https://www.brides.com/thmb/PbqiajXxYDGxUck0ll-BJWQNwnM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/lucite-e5022c7a2e0e45b1964422677160e4f6.jpg)
Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography
Lucite can be used in everything from wedding signs and table numbers to seating charts and more—giving the event a modern and minimal feel.
Give Rustic Settings an Industrial Edge
![Rustic table number surrounded by candles and greenery](https://www.brides.com/thmb/ay5Kg7MS6BjexV5fJgON-9iGRvA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71e1fc7a71d292037fd_8-e94ef151619d4bbd821f90def050fdc7.jpg)
Photo by Jordan Weiland Photography
Rustic meets industrial in wooden table signage with metal numbers.
Cluster Small Greenery Sprigs
![Greenery sprigs in candle holders at varying heights](https://www.brides.com/thmb/wQ7b_GY2G79fUb050uRvGd8hd5Y=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71ecbe5800cd3d7c284_9-063d9ae1d50a4dc18545e8ae2cb2bf54.jpg)
Photo by Perpixel Photo
When votives with sprigs of greenery can magically light the way, there's no need to line the steps with overflowing florals.
Set the Scene With Vintage Flourishes
![Gold cart with wedding cake on top and greenery hanging from walls with gold frames](https://www.brides.com/thmb/rW2TRmoikghDoX9ppSQE7G3ipGU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71ee330984529fc3000_10-dfe8cc5f26364e4f8c9ec24a1ed2e5b9.jpg)
Photo by Rosencrown Photography
A vintage bar cart with gilded accents brings all eyes to this oh-so-pretty cake thanks to its uncluttered décor, save for a few elegantly scattered roses.
Showcase Beautiful Calligraphy
![Wire basket with cardstock in front with cards in calligraphy](https://www.brides.com/thmb/BtMGU7-Qo0V5QUlzibo3uDoKdpA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71f1fc7a71d292037ff_11-470afa3df44143fba3502239a36bec35.jpg)
Photo by Jake and Heather Photo
A wire basket and some gorgeous calligraphy are all you really need for a no-fuss card box.
Swap Chairs for Natural Benches
![Benches at wedding ceremony with white pillows and greenery on floor](https://www.brides.com/thmb/_T7AnW5qndVIrLtO_CHGKcYpWkM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d71f1fc7a71d29203801_12-a903993a474c441ebd4614eb2658942b.jpg)
Photo by AL Gawlik Photography
With limited additions, organic benches make for rich and decadent seating.
Opt for Unexpected Touches
![Sprigs of greenery in small vase on a shelf near blue book and mirror](https://www.brides.com/thmb/7BujOis9i8ubHeocmHqs30i6ob8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d721e330984529fc3003_13-525db1e22ec94acaa7409ac2442f18e5.jpg)
Photo by Rachel Solomon Photography; Design by Joy Proctor Design
A glass vase with a spray of wild grass and a vintage book add a fine art touch to the reception décor.
Try Old-World Typography
![Black and white typography on seating chart at reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/GFzAagTfvqt2DupTlQlRNXzCQH4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d720cbe5800cd3d7c288_14-8a0305601f8646a19d256abca4f0212b.jpg)
Photo by Marisa Albrecht
Black and white typography on a seating chart makes an impact against a white canvas, paired with a simple easel and a graceful vine of ivy.
Design Smaller Centerpieces
![Small centerpiece with simple place setting at modern wedding](https://www.brides.com/thmb/oFbHjOv3iZyQdE6k4U86kkfbNWg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/smallcenterpieces1-100375148e9d4fad8d4ceb24122acbcc.jpg)
Photo by Shining Light Photography
Modern couples can still enjoy lush centerpieces at their reception, but keeping the arrangements small and low will match with the minimalist theme.
Hang Dried Stems
![Colorful dried florals hanging from ceiling at wedding reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/pVUED46X50WtZHNvsDDL7Z1Qv-Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d721e330984529fc3002_16-a60f608e960443d2a15573e7839d3a66.jpg)
Upside-down single flowers are a creative alternative to chandeliers and add a splash of color to a neutral reception palette.
Let the Backdrop Do the Talking
![Modern backdrop at outdoor minimalism wedding](https://www.brides.com/thmb/xYmw9ybtMkPC7Osf-DJPh4Y1Gt8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d721cbe5800cd3d7c28c_17-c3a1e432654c470e9c4240d8cac8df07.jpg)
Photo by Jordan Weiland Photography
With its clean type and geometric lines, a personalized white and black sign overlooking the reception is a minimalist’s monochromatic dream. It’s all you need for a focal point.
Set a Monochromatic Tabletop
![Monochromatic table setting with place card and green sprig](https://www.brides.com/thmb/NEILu3pumrTEWz4KfYvmC_JFtag=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d7221fc7a71d29203803_18-59f6e4d7c8094dc8b952dffd0bee1aec.jpg)
Photo by Anna Tereshina Photography
A dusty gray palette, a simple combination of plateware and flatware, and minimal accents set against ethereal gauzy linens look nothing less than dreamy.
Bring Color to Your Aisle
![Modern wedding aisle with colorful leaves and greenery framing it](https://www.brides.com/thmb/KJiVMm_7bf3sSFzuwvjNTM25bAo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/aisle-bdf2f912c10e42d49033bcfa262a8359.jpg)
Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography
Framing the aisle with colorful leaves and greenery adds some drama to this otherwise sparse ceremony setting.
Frame Those Vows—Literally
![White arch at altar at an outdoor wedding ceremony](https://www.brides.com/thmb/WvOEqWnk0iX8I70jR9THN7RkVeg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d722e330984529fc3006_20-b7684a047b024f63a9922d2162bc091f.jpg)
Photo by Love is a Big Deal
A square arch and billowing organics on a structured platform make for a modern and elegant altar.
Create a Unique Chandelier
![Hanging chandelier created with greenery and tea lights](https://www.brides.com/thmb/I4AQMFQd0rW1SQzR5znnWaUrShg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d7241fc7a71d2920380c_21-c4c529141f724252a77bb6b34e69f41b.jpg)
Photo by Redfield Photography
Strictly fauna and no flora, this modest chandelier takes a modern approach, complete with miniature spherical baubles housing romantic tea lights.
Skip the Labels
![Small bottles of olive oil wrapped as guest favors with sprigs of greenery and table number](https://www.brides.com/thmb/eHVWqR429Tf_Uk8r1yu35HcnY_c=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d722e330984529fc3008_22-53fcd8cd7e7344328cecb814fd9568b1.jpg)
Photo by Jose Villa
Miniature bottles of olive oil tied with taupe ribbon and soft linen are a personal touch for guests to take home as wedding favors.
Set the Tone
![Modern acrylic wedding invitation with postage](https://www.brides.com/thmb/Y1nBA3gs2FWc-Uesqb9Wd2ZemBM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d7221fc7a71d29203807_23-5b2c9ea772eb4eefb73e4b558b2561d2.jpg)
Photo by Elena Pavlova
An acrylic invite keeps things simple in a gray and white palette featuring stunning calligraphy. Together, it creates an airy and romantic feel.
Get Playful With Statement Balloons
![White balloon with "love is in the air" written on it](https://www.brides.com/thmb/gEPoFYUkNQN8HPjD3SfISaUoJdc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d7231fc7a71d29203809_24-d76158b2b5264828894349615ac7a3e2.jpg)
Photo by Nicola Thompson Photography
Giant balloons with sweet sayings add unexpected accents.
Design a Simple Sweetheart Table...
![Simple sweetheart table with greenery at wedding reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/rbcmnnxd1xGM5rdS68NNRd8o348=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d7241fc7a71d2920380b_25-a140ab761c4f45e683d34253cae6c1fa.jpg)
Photo by Marisa Albrecht
Industrial minimalism is at its finest in this sweetheart table, thanks to copper chairs and a showstopper swath of greens.
...Or Make It Stand Out
![Navy sofa sweetheart table surrounded by white chairs and tables at outdoor reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/2JSpZAqF4BsUknWS7ZjEfflWwuA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d723cbe5800cd3d7c28e_26-66ac898b29104c91b6fe760b192b6000.jpg)
Photo by Lauren Kinsey
This luxurious navy sofa steals the spotlight in a sea of white.
Focus on Floral Accents
![Floral wall with single blooms hanging from white wall](https://www.brides.com/thmb/8tiU5p0y43MLiAKMMGykRPC_4Kw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d724cbe5800cd3d7c290_27-7f28b48a237442deb3d19b0ed1ab711b.jpg)
Photo by Krystle Akin
This floral wall is pure botanical goodness. Rows of single stems bring beauty to a clean space.
Bring in Bold Hues
![Neutral place settings with pops of blue and greenery as centerpieces](https://www.brides.com/thmb/szuo6c8gcxWp-88UyZlOVc3ShNE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d724e330984529fc300a_28-571e5a0e583540caa751999e9463be3f.jpg)
Photo by Brian Saculles Photography
Most minimalist weddings stick to a neutral palette, but this pop of blue looks stunning against bare wooden furniture. It brings romantic elegance to a rustic setting.
Simplify Your Seating Chart
![Frame and wire seating chart at outdoor wedding reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/7O-48SkUo5V1ZZ8biW00GuXKCrU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d724cbe5800cd3d7c292_29-f332de8703194080b7216d52a3f662e2.jpg)
Photo by Lauren Louise Photography
This creative seating plan is a piece of DIY magic, with a wooden frame and clothespins clipping a leaf of eucalyptus and crisp, white cards for a polished, rustic look.
Create Dessert Displays
![Donut tower with sign at dessert table at wedding reception](https://www.brides.com/thmb/lmsetd45AUU5mvQB9QVFtiPackw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__brides__public__brides-services__production__2017__04__20__58f8d725e330984529fc300c_30-0bc68224ef7d4fd797326c1a0f2252fb.jpg)
Photo by Marisa Albrecht
Towering columns of donuts are as clean and crisp as the modern white signage behind them. Simple white candles cast a soft glow that shines a spotlight on these sweet desserts.