20 Minimalist Wedding Ideas For the Ultimate Simple & Chic Day

Minimalism is a “less is more” mindset that modern couples are embracing to achieve an ultra-chic wedding aesthetic. Minimalist wedding ideas, which most often feature neutral wedding color palettes, industrial wedding venues and lots of greenery, are adaptable for almost any budget and season, which could explain why this trend is so popular right now. Far from boring, minimalist weddings aren’t the absence of bright colors or fun details—instead, think of this style as the Marie Kondo of weddings, because the overall goal is to showcase the most important details that are genuinely meaningful to you as a couple.

Here are our must-see ideas for pulling off a minimalist wedding.  

Monochromatic stationery

Skip the colorful embellishments and fancy calligraphy—minimalist wedding stationery is all about simplified typography, neutral colors, and an "only the essentials" mindset. Black and white is the most obvious choice for minimalist wedding stationery, but you can also go with a modified neutral palette of silver, gold, gray, or dark green. 

Thin wedding band

If you're not one for fussy bling, then you'll love this wedding jewelry trend. Thin metal rings feel undeniably more contemporary than the standard mid-weight or diamond-covered wedding bands, and they're also a great option if you're thinking about creating a ring stack. Wear a thin wedding band with a simple engagement ring for the perfect minimalistic pairing. 

Sleek block heeled sandals

Your wedding shoes don't have to be over the top (or uncomfortable) to look amazing. If you're planning to wear heels, an elegant satin sandal in a neutral color is our recommendation a minimalist wedding—no beading or laces required. 

Plain spa robes

Planning to get ready with your bridesmaids before the wedding? Matching floral robes and pajama sets aren't your only options when you're deciding what to wear for your glam sesh. Basic cotton spa robes are comfortable, re-wearable, and totally fit the minimalist vibe. 

Dress by Alexandra Grecco

Unembellished wedding dress

If you're planning to wear a gown for your big day, you're in luck, because minimalist wedding dresses are a huge trend right now. This means that you'll have plenty of embellishment-free options to try as you're shopping for your dream dress. Look for slimmer wedding dress silhouettes, like sheath, A-line, and fit-and-flare, and crisp fabrics such as crepe or silk. 

Low ponytail

Most polished bridal hairstyles will suffice when it comes to minimalist wedding ideas, but one of our favorite looks is a sleek low ponytail. It's not the most glamorous of 'dos, but that's the point! Leave the ponytail slightly tousled and avoid adding hair accessories so the style remains simple and seemingly effortless. 

Floral design by Nectar & Root

Monochromatic wedding bouquet

A monochromatic wedding bouquet, especially an all-white arrangement, is the minimalistic counterpart of the oversized, greenery filled bouquet trend. This idea of a no-frills arrangement is surprisingly refreshing, and each flower included in the bouquet becomes that much more important. 

White tuxedo jacket

When your wedding color palette is comprised of mostly (or all) neutrals, you need to think extra-carefully about your attire and any colors you're planning to wear, since they'll immediately stand out. A fitted white tuxedo jacket gives you a fashion-forward edge while keeping the overall look streamlined and fresh. 

Industrial wedding venue

Minimalist wedding ideas and industrial wedding venues practically go hand-in-hand. Refurbished spaces like warehouses, lofts, and old factories are typically filled with edgy-cool details—think exposed brick, hardwood floors, and beamed ceilings. And since all of those elements already make a big visual statement, you won't need as much decor or legwork to enhance the venue.  

Vellum ceremony programs

Vellum is a go-to material for minimalist wedding decor. This semi-translucent paper can be used for everything from your wedding invitations and your ceremony programs, to your escort cards, reception signage, or table numbers. 

Pillar candle aisle markers

Here's a romantic alternative to lining your ceremony aisle with flower petals: white pillar candles. Clusters of candles at the edge of each row will set the mood without adding more decor than necessary. Alternate between rows with basic cylinder vases and geometric hurricane vases for a subtle but chic effect. 

Copper piping backdrop

If the rest of your ceremony decor and venue is relatively understated, consider adding a copper piping backdrop adorned with greenery, fabric, or pampas grass. It will instantly create a focal point in an otherwise minimalistic space. 

Marais chairs

Metal marais chairs give your minimalist wedding an urban, industrial vibe. These chairs are often available in a range of metallic finishes, like silver, rose gold, or bronze, and they look stylish with or without cushions. 

Ghost chairs

Translucent acrylic ghost chairs are another stylish seating option if metal chairs or your wedding venue's standard chairs aren't up to par. Pair these modern chairs with dark wood and greenery for an edgy contrasting effect. 

Felt letter board signage

Signage at weddings isn't going anywhere—using signs is one of the easiest ways to personalize your decor and convey important messages to your guests (like the bar menu). Utilitarian letter boards are on-theme with a minimalist wedding because they get straight to the point. 

Edison bulb lighting

From chandeliers and marquee letters to rattan lampshades and neon signs, wedding lighting trends are always changing. Simple Edison bulbs are our favorite pick for a minimalist wedding. 

Acrylic seating chart

Consider this as your reception statement piece. A translucent, life-size seating chart is a stylish way to get on board with the acrylic wedding decor trend in a functional way. 

Succulent centerpiece

Potted succulents, cacti, and aloe plants make adorable centerpieces in lieu of traditional flower arrangements. Accent your succulent centerpieces with geometric table numbers and votive candles for a modern finish. 

Gray and white place settings

If plain white china doesn't feel quite as decorative as you'd hoped, try mixing plates and glassware in gray tones instead. The darker plates will pop against white linens, but overall, the place settings are still understated and simple.

Geode table number

Bring an earthy undertone to your wedding tablescapes by writing each table number on a polished geode. Use stones in neutral gray or brown colors to stay on-theme with a minimalist wedding. 

Marbled wedding cake

Gray and white marbled fondant brings a contemporary spin to the classic wedding cake. Keep flowers and greenery minimal so you can still see the clean lines of the tiers.  

Planning for main image by Wildflower Events + Design