How to Choose the Best Wedding Style: Step-by-Step Guide

So, the big day is coming up and you are a bit overwhelmed by all the preparations. Don’t worry, you are not alone! One of couples’ biggest concerns is choosing the right wedding style.

The vibe or aura surrounding your wedding makes up for the entire experience, both yours and your guests. We all know the traditional wedding style, but what if you like to do something different? Which is the right path to go?

Let’s talk about wedding style, and how to choose the right one.

Step 1: Pin Down Your Wedding Vision

The first and most important step is your idea or vision of your wedding. How do you imagine the “perfect wedding”? I know that sometimes we don’t know what we want, but this step requires narrowing down at least a direction based on your preferences.

So, do you like a charming wedding in a vineyard, or you are more of an urban person?

How to get ideas flowing? Well, try to visualize your big day. Where is it? What does it look like?

This is the most difficult choice that ties all the preparations afterward. In fact, more than 70% of couples say that once they define a clear vision, everything else falls in order more naturally.

If you still cannot imagine the perfect date, try browsing through on wedding style ideas on Pinterest and see what catches your eye. Most couples make the same mistake of focusing on the look of the wedding, not the entire vibe, so make sure you think about how your wedding would feel.

Step 2: Determine Your Budget Early

Now, the cost of your wedding is highly impacted by your wedding style. Having a clear budget will help you narrow down a few options for your wedding style and help you with choosing the required decorations.

According to Forbes, the average wedding in 2024 costs around $33,000, so setting a budget early can save you from a lot of future stress. 

After you’ve agreed on a wedding budget, let’s talk about how you will spend the money. This is crucial for having the perfect wedding. For example, rending out an exclusive vineyard can cost you a lot of money, especially if it is a remote place that will increase transportation costs.

Pro Tip: Try to allocate around 40% of your wedding budget to the venue and catering, these are usually the biggest costs.

Step 3: Choose a Venue That Sets the Scene

The place is most responsible for setting the right vibe for your wedding. There are plenty of different venues from beachy vibes, to vineyards, and even entertainment centers. Remember, each venue brings a different vibe, so once you have a slight idea about what you want, try to visit a couple of venues just to see whether or not it will be the right choice for your wedding.

So, what are the most important questions to ask when choosing a venue?

Well, first you need to know what’s included in the rental fee. Some places have their own decorations while others rent you only the space. Another important thing is restrictions, especially if you choose a historic site, where there may be specific rules on lighting or decor.

Step 4: Nail Down Your Color Palette

Next, we have to talk about colors. Colors have the biggest impact on your wedding style, and just because we are talking about a wedding, it doesn’t mean that you should go all-white!

For example, if you want a modern approach, choose a monochrome palette or pops of neon. On the other hand, for a more relaxed and casual wedding choose natural colors.

You also have to consider the season. For example, in Spring soft pastels like light greens and blush pinks work really well. On the other hand, in summer, we can switch to bright colors, and fall and winter have more earthy and dark tones.

Lighting also plays a crucial role in determining your wedding style. Would you like to go with soft lights for a casual and laid-back vibe, or go bold with vibrant, colorful, and even neon lights that would make people feel like they are entering a casino?

Hopefully, your guests won’t get too much into the casino vibe to be stuck playing slot games at Bovada all night.

We’ll talk about lights later.

Step 5: Personalize with Details and Décor

This is where you can really show off your personality. Personal touches make your wedding memorable and feel authentically “you.” Custom signage, a photo wall, or even a quirky cake topper can add personality without breaking the bank. 

The average cost of wedding décor is about $3,000, but DIY options can help you save here if you’re crafty!

• Décor Ideas:
  • Rustic: Wooden signage, greenery, and fairy lights
  • Glam: Chandeliers, gold accents, and lavish floral arrangements
  • Whimsical: Bright colors, eclectic table settings, and unique props

Step 6: Choose the Right Music and Lighting

Lighting and music set the tone, especially during the reception. If your style is romantic, soft lighting with string lights or candles works wonders. For a modern vibe, consider colored LED lighting. 

When it comes to music, a live jazz band adds elegance, while a DJ can keep things upbeat and modern. And don’t forget the playlist! An online survey found that couples who created a personal playlist were more satisfied with their wedding vibe than those who left it to a DJ.

Step 7: Don’t Forget the Guest Experience

Your guests are there to celebrate with you, so think about how you can make the day enjoyable for everyone. Popular ideas include cocktail stations, lounge areas, and interactive photo booths. Consider providing a “welcome kit” for out-of-town guests or a cozy corner with blankets for outdoor fall or winter weddings.

• Guest Ideas:
  • Comfort: Blanket stations, fans for hot days, or cozy shawls for cool nights
  • Fun: Yard games, live painters, or interactive photo booths

Final Words

At the end of the day, your wedding style depends only on what you want. The ambiance and setting of the wedding should go along with your passion for the ultimate day. Yes, you can look at some of the trends, but it is your big day, don’t worry too much about what the guests are going to say. 

There are no limitations in terms of choosing your wedding style. Just follow your passion and desires, and try to incorporate things that will make it even more memorable.