How do you design the wedding of your dreams? Sure you hop on Pinterest and look for photos that excite you, but what if you’re not sure what to look at or even what styles of wedding designs are available to you.

I'm so excited about today's episode because we’re diving deep into some of the most common décor elements and themes I see at different styles of weddings. This topic was requested by one of our loverves, so whether you're in the early stages of planning or looking for that perfect finishing touch, this episode is packed with inspiration for you.

Today, we're exploring eight distinct wedding styles: Organic/Garden-esque, Art Deco, Classic/Traditional, Ballroom, Boho, Moody Romantic, Modern, and Rustic. Each of these styles brings its own unique vibe and charm, and I can't wait to share all the details with you.

So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let's dive into the wonderful world of wedding décor!

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To fast-forward to a specific part of the podcast episode, check out the timestamps below:

• Classic/Timeless Weddings [4:54]
• Ballroom Weddings [7:34]
• Organic/Gardenesque [10.58]
• Art Deco Wedding Design [14:28]
• Boho Wedding Design [18:53]
• Moody Romantic Weddings [22:15]
• Rustic Wedding Design [25:37]
• Modern Weddings [28:14]

 

1. Classic/Traditional/Timeless Wedding Design

 

Let’s kick things off by talking about classic, timeless, or traditional weddings. We often hear the term “timeless” used as a catchall in the wedding industry. It basically means you want your wedding to look elegant and sophisticated without appearing too tied to any specific trend that might make it feel dated in a few years.

But let's be real for a second—no matter what you do, your wedding is going to feel a little bit dated when you look back on it in 10 or 15 years. Trends change, typography evolves, and what feels current or “timeless” now will inevitably shift. With that said, there are ways to create a wedding that stands the test of time with grace and elegance.

To me, a classic traditional wedding is all about clean lines and a refined color palette. Think lots of white, crisp details, and maybe a touch of pastels. These soft, feminine colors add a gentle touch without overwhelming the overall look. When it comes to choosing your flowers, consider traditional blooms like peonies, lilies, and white roses. Ranunculus are also great. These flowers are timeless and bring an air of elegance to any setting.

For seating or chairs, you might opt for Chiavari chairs or elegant banquet chairs. Not to be confused with standard hotel ballroom chairs. I’m talking about nice rented cushioned chairs. Both Chiavari or ballroom banquet chairs offer a sophisticated look that complements the classic theme perfectly. As for the color palette, sticking to whites and greens or pinks and whites or pastels can create a fresh and clean aesthetic. Pastel blues can also add a soft, serene touch without introducing too many colors.

Think about a spring or summer wedding with these elegant hues, reminiscent of the wedding in the movie The Father of the Bride. The overall feel is sophisticated yet inviting, clean yet warm.

 

2. Ballroom Wedding Design

Next, we have the ballroom wedding. 

Now, you might be wondering if a ballroom wedding falls under the category of a traditional wedding. In many ways, it does, but to me, a ballroom wedding is all about grandness and opulence. It's about creating an elevated, luxurious atmosphere that makes a statement from the moment your guests arrive.

When it comes to the color palette for a ballroom wedding, there's a lot of flexibility. You can stick with classic whites and greens for a timeless look, or you can go all out with dramatic colors like deep blues, rich greens, or vibrant pink. The key is to create a sense of richness and opulence. Think floor-length linens that are thick and luxurious, maybe even in fabrics like velvet or satin. You might also choose linens with a bit of sheen or sparkle to catch the light and add that extra wow factor.

For the table settings, think about a full set of ornate china, complete with charger plates and elegant glassware. This isn't the time for minimalist settings—go for something that feels substantial and lavish. Mix and match more modern pieces with traditional ones to add a unique touch while maintaining that grand feel.

When it comes to flowers, think lush and full arrangements. You can have elevated flowers, cascading blooms on chandeliers, tall centerpieces, and thick floral runners. The goal is to create an abundant, luxurious look that fills the room with beauty. Large centerpieces are perfect for making a statement, but make sure they're designed so guests can still see each other across the table. I know it’s a thing, but I just don’t love a table centerpiece that prevents you from conversing with the people across the table from you.

For seating, opt for substantial chairs with cushioned seats and backs. You want something comfortable and elegant, not just the standard banquet chairs. An oval back with a cushioned seat in a color that complements your palette adds that extra touch of sophistication.

When you think about stationery, typography for a ballroom wedding can be a mix of traditional serif fonts and ornate script. This combination adds to the overall elegance and can be tailored to fit your personal style and the venue's aesthetic.

In terms of photography, I also want to note that you'll likely be indoors with less natural light, so true-to-color, saturated images work best. Choose a photographer who is comfortable using flash and can capture the vibrant, luxurious feel of your ballroom setting. You want the colors to pop and the details to shine, so in my opinion, you’ll want to avoid photographers who lean to moody, dark editing styles.

Next, we have one of my favorites: 

 

3. Organic/Garden-esque

Many of our weddings at Verve Event Co. have this organic, garden-inspired feel, and it's a style that perfectly blends natural beauty with elegant details.

To me, a garden-esque wedding is all about embracing the outdoors. It’s probably going to be held outdoors, in a tent, or under twinkling lights. The color palette is inspired by the season and the flowers that are in bloom. In spring and early summer, pastels are perfect. As summer progresses, you can go for richer, more vibrant colors. And in the fall, there are endless possibilities with shades like peach, deep reds, burnt oranges, or jewel tones, which create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The floral arrangements for garden-esque weddings are usually very lush and natural. Think organic styles where the flowers seem to be growing out of their vessels. They twist and turn in a way that feels very natural and effortless, though achieving this look is actually quite an art! The key is to make everything look beautifully unstructured as if the flowers were transplanted from a garden.

For table settings, you have a lot of flexibility. You can go slightly more feminine with vintage and ornate details, or you can lean towards a modern look. Mixing these styles can also work wonderfully. For example, you might choose elegant vintage china and pair it with sleek, modern flatware. The linens could be full-length or you could opt for runners. Personally, I love linens with botanical prints or subtle patterns that bring an extra layer of interest without overpowering the natural beauty of the flowers.

When it comes to photography, garden-esque weddings usually look best with a light and airy editing style. The photos should be bright and soft, capturing the natural light and the candid moments of the day. A photojournalistic approach works best here, focusing on capturing real, unposed moments that tell the story of your wedding day.

For your stationery, typography for a garden-esque wedding should be a blend of classic and elegant. A mixture of traditional serif fonts with handwritten scripts adds a touch of sophistication without being too ornate. You want it to feel elevated but still approachable and in harmony with the natural setting.

For chairs, the Wishbone chair brings a modern touch, while wooden crossback or Napa chairs add a rustic yet refined feel. You could also consider white lattice chairs for a crisp, clean look. Chiavari chairs are a bit more on the traditional side and might lean towards a ballroom feel, but they can still work if styled correctly.

Overall, a garden-esque wedding is about creating a space that feels both polished and natural. It's about blending elegance with the beauty of the outdoors, and creating an atmosphere that feels warm and inviting.

 

4. Art Deco Wedding Design

 

Art Deco is another style we are seeing pop up more recently, which brings back all of the glitz and glamour of the 1920s. Think Great Gatsby vibes with lots of gold, silver, and mirrored finishes. This style is perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel like a step back in time to the gilded age of luxury and sophistication.

The color palette for an Art Deco wedding typically includes black, gold, white, and silver. These colors create a stunning and timeless look that screams elegance. You can incorporate these colors into every aspect of your wedding, from the décor to the attire.

For table settings, consider using ornate china with gold or silver rims. Glass chargers with metallic accents also fit perfectly within this theme. Mirrored tables or surfaces can add that extra touch of glamour, reflecting the beautiful details of your décor and enhancing the overall opulence of the setting.

Floral arrangements can be both lush and structured, often incorporating bold blooms and rich foliage. Feathers and pearls can be used as accents to bring that vintage 1920s feel to your floral designs.

When it comes to chairs, opt for something that feels luxurious and sophisticated. Gold oval-backed chairs with velvet cushions or Chiavari chairs in gold are perfect choices. You want your seating to reflect the opulence of the era, adding to the overall glamour of your wedding.

For typography, choose fonts that have a vintage 1920s vibe. Bold, geometric fonts mixed with elegant scripts can create a striking visual impact on your invitations, menus, and signage.

In terms of photography, go for a style that captures the true colors and vibrancy of your day. Art Deco weddings are rich in visual details, so you want a photographer who can highlight the luxurious golds, silvers, and the overall opulence. True-to-color, vibrant photography will best capture the essence of your Art Deco wedding.

Lighting is another crucial element. Lots of lights, including chandeliers and candlelight, can add to the glamorous atmosphere. Mirrored and metallic finishes will reflect the light beautifully, creating a sparkling, romantic setting.

 

 

 

 

5. Boho Wedding Designs

Next, let’s talk about the free-spirited and eclectic world of boho weddings. If you love a mix of vintage charm, natural elements, and a touch of retro flair, a boho wedding might be just what you’re looking for.

Boho, short for bohemian, is all about embracing a laid-back, yet beautifully curated style. This often means wildflower-inspired arrangements, smaller bouquets, and lots of bud vases filled with delicate blooms. You’ll find fewer traditional flowers like roses and more wild, free-flowing arrangements that feel as if they were just picked from a meadow.

For seating, boho weddings often feature a mix of vintage or mismatched chairs. This adds to the eclectic, carefree vibe. Think wooden chairs, vintage finds, and maybe even some cozy poufs or cushions for a more relaxed seating area.

When it comes to table settings, boho style leans towards the informal. Long runners, vintage glassware, and flatware fit right in. You might choose mismatched plates and goblets to add to the whimsical feel. The overall look is less about perfect coordination and more about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Pampas grass has been a popular choice for boho weddings, adding height and texture to arrangements. This, combined with a variety of other natural elements, can create a stunning, earthy look. Think West Coast bohemian vibes, with a bit of a retro twist. Color palettes for boho weddings often include warm, natural tones. Mustard yellows, burnt oranges, and deep pinks are common, along with more subdued, nature-inspired colors. The whole vibe feels a bit like stepping back into the 1970s, with rich, warm tones that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

For photography, boho weddings often look best with a warm, vintage-inspired editing style. Think slightly muted colors, warm tones, and a photojournalistic approach. 

When it comes to calligraphy and signage, boho style is a bit more relaxed and playful. Handwritten fonts with curly cues and a mix of script and non-script elements fit perfectly. It’s not about being super polished, but rather about capturing that laid-back, artistic vibe.

 

6. Moody Romantic Weddings

If you're dreaming of a wedding filled with rich colors, bold details, and a touch of drama, a moody romantic style might be perfect for you.

A moody romantic wedding is all about deep, bold colors and creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and striking. Jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, sapphire blue, and amethyst purple are perfect for this style, along with darker tones like deep burgundy, navy, and black. These colors work wonderfully in the fall months—September, October, and November—though you can certainly use them any time of the year if you want that moody vibe.

For floral arrangements, think lush and dramatic. Dark, velvety blooms, rich greenery, and touches of gold or silver can create stunning, opulent arrangements. You might choose flowers like dahlias, peonies, and roses in deep shades, paired with lots of dark, leafy greens.

When it comes to table settings, you have a lot of room to play with different styles. Ornate china in rich colors, gold or silver flatware, and dark, luxurious table linens can all contribute to the moody feel. Velvet tablecloths or runners add a beautiful, tactile element, perfect for late summer, fall, or winter weddings.

For seating, black chairs can add a touch of drama, while velvet-covered chairs bring in that luxurious, romantic feel. You don’t have to stick to one specific type of chair—mixing and matching can create an eclectic yet cohesive look.

The overall décor should feel rich and opulent. Consider using lots of candles to create a warm, intimate atmosphere. Think candelabras, lanterns, and votives in varying heights and styles. The lighting should be soft and golden, enhancing the rich colors and creating a romantic glow

Photography for a moody romantic wedding should capture the depth and richness of your color palette. Choose a photographer who excels in working with dramatic lighting and can bring out the vibrant, bold colors in your décor. Warm, rich tones in the editing can help convey that moody, romantic feel.

For typography, go with elegant, sophisticated fonts. A mix of traditional serif fonts with a touch of script can create a beautiful, timeless look. The key is to keep it elegant and refined, complementing the opulence of the overall style.

A moody romantic wedding is perfect for couples who want to create a deeply personal and intimate atmosphere. It's about embracing bold colors, rich textures, and dramatic lighting to craft a wedding that feels both luxurious and heartfelt.

 

7. Rustic Wedding Designs

 

Rustic weddings have a distinct country charm, often characterized by simpler, more natural elements. Think smaller, more understated floral arrangements and bud vases instead of large centerpieces. 

For the table settings, rustic weddings often feature mismatched china and glassware. This adds a charming, eclectic vibe that feels both personal and inviting. Instead of full-length linens, consider using table runners, particularly those with a gauzy, wrinkled texture. This creates a more laid-back and natural look that’s perfect for a rustic setting.

Seating options for a rustic wedding can vary. Mismatched vintage chairs, wooden pews, or benches can all add to the rustic charm. Crossback Napa chairs are also a great choice, bringing in that natural wood element that’s so central to this style.

The color palette for a rustic wedding can depend on the season, but it generally leans towards earthy, natural tones. Think warm browns, soft greens, and creamy whites. Rustic doesn’t have to mean burlap and mason jars—it's about creating a relaxed, backyard feel that’s still beautiful and thoughtful.

When it comes to décor, lots of wood elements help to enhance the rustic feel. Wooden tables, signs, and even ceremony arches can all contribute to the overall look. Keep the décor simple and natural, using elements like twine, burlap, and lace sparingly to avoid overdoing it.

For photography, rustic weddings can be captured in a variety of styles. While moody photography can work, I’d recommend going for a true-to-life style that captures the natural colors and relaxed atmosphere. Bright, colorful photos or even a slightly warm, vintage edit can highlight the charm and warmth of a rustic wedding beautifully.

Calligraphy for a rustic wedding should feel handmade and personal. Handwritten fonts with a slightly imperfect, natural look work best. Think of the script fonts that have a bit of a vintage feel, adding to the overall charm without feeling overused. Think of the home decor trend from a few years ago that say things like “pantry” or “gather”… those thicker fonts are often what will be used in a rustic wedding.

 

8. Modern Wedding Designs

Last but not least, we have modern weddings. Modern weddings are characterized by their minimalistic and chic aesthetic. The overall look is very clean and not overly done, with an emphasis on simplicity and contemporary style. Think about shopping at places like Crate & Barrel, where the tableware and décor items have a modern, natural shape and a sleek design.

For table settings, modern weddings often feature ceramic plates with organic shapes rather than traditional, ornate china. The flatware is simple with clean lines, avoiding overly intricate designs. The glassware also follows this trend, with modern cuts and oblique sides that feel sophisticated and restaurant-quality.

The color palette for a modern wedding can vary widely. You can choose a colorful, seasonal palette or go monochromatic for a more cohesive look. Black and white is a popular choice for modern weddings, creating a chic and timeless feel. Whatever colors you choose, the key is to keep the look clean and cohesive.

When it comes to décor, less is more. Opt for simple yet striking elements. Geometric shapes, metallic accents, and minimalist floral arrangements work beautifully in a modern setting. Instead of large, elaborate centerpieces, you might go for sleek vases with single stems or small, neatly arranged bouquets.

Seating options for a modern wedding include acrylic chairs with rounded shapes, which add a touch of transparency and lightness to the décor. Wishbone chairs can bring in a coastal modern vibe, while black or white chairs add contrast and drama.

For typography and stationery, choose clean, sans-serif fonts that avoid the ornate details of more traditional styles. The goal is to keep the design simple and elegant. Stationery can be printed on high-quality paper with clean edges, adding to the overall sophisticated look.

Photography for a modern wedding should capture the clean lines and contemporary details. Choose a photographer who excels in true-to-color, vibrant images that highlight the sleekness of your décor. Avoid overly moody or heavily filtered styles, as they can detract from the clean, modern aesthetic.

Overall, a modern wedding is about creating a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who love contemporary design and want their wedding to feel like an elegant, curated event. With clean lines, minimalistic décor, and a focus on quality over quantity, a modern wedding is a beautiful option for your wedding day.

 

 

 

I hope that this episode excites you as you start to design your wedding day! While we’ve covered a LOT here today, I also want to remind you to take what you love, and leave what you don’t. You do NOT need to follow a style perfectly to have a beautiful wedding day. 

To be honest, we struggled putting this episode together because we didn’t want to rely on cliches as there’s a lot of wiggle room in wedding design. That’s what makes each wedding unique! Once you decide on a theme or when you get married, make sure you tag us in your wedding photos – we would love to see what you create!

 

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QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions, DM me on Instagram at @asktheplannerpodcast, call the wedding planning hotline at 585-210-3467, or drop it in your review on Apple Podcasts.

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Learn more and schedule a call with me to see if this is what your business needs at verveeventco.com/coach.

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