16 Minimalist Wedding Ideas That Show Less *Is* More

Less doesn’t equal boring — especially when it comes to minimalist weddings. This understated and totally cool 2016 wedding trend has been popping up on our radar and we’re absolutely in love. Whether you’re browsing through chic minimalist invites or modern minimalist wedding dresses, there are so many pieces to keep in mind when it comes to creating the perfect minimalist wedding. Luckily, we’ve narrowed it down to just 16 must-haves so you can have the minimalist wedding of your dreams. Scroll on and get inspired!

Gorgeous Minimalist Invites

Start your wedding off right with minimalist wedding invitations that’ll give your guests a sneak peek of your wedding day. Invites in black and white, all white, a marble pattern or with a focus on typography can not only set the tone but will also work as a starting point for the rest of your wedding decor. See the list of our favorite minimalist wedding invites for more inspo. (via Mikkel Paige)

Transparent Seating

While chiavari chairs are the gold standard of wedding seating, you can try a more contemporary design instead. These clear ghost-style chairs are a cool and sleek alternative. (Photo via Sally Pinera / Once Wed)

Artisanal Ceramics + Metallic Flatware

Whatever guests touch with their hands ends up leaving the strongest impression. Natural white ceramics paired with gold flatware is the perfect combination for an understated chic tabletop style. (Photo via Sally Pinera / Once Wed)

Wedding Stationery to Match

Wedding day stationery is an important piece of styling and should tie in with the rest of your minimalist aesthetic. We love the beautiful paper goods from stationer Venamour, including these table number cards! (Photo via Alice Gao / Lingered Upon)

The Understated Ceremony Backdrop

While most ceremony backdrops include arches full of peonies and extravagant arrangements, a simple yet elegant backdrop is all you need to make a statement. Accent decor like sand dollar eucalyptus and candles give your wedding an intimate atmosphere. (Photo via Valentina Hunsänger / Peaches and Mint)

Modern Wedding Dress

Skip the traditional French lace or poofy wedding gown. A pure white wedding dress with a modern silhouette is all you need to wed in serious style. For more dress inspo, see some of our favorite minimalist wedding dresses. (via Houghton)

Wedding Favors in a Muted Color Palette

Choose wedding favors that speak to the rest of your wedding decor. Artisanal cream ribbon-wrapped bottles of olive oil let your guests take home a memorable (and super stylish) piece of your wedding day. (Photo via Jose Villa)

Black + White Outfits

Whether you and bae coordinate black and white outfits, or your husband- or wife-to-be is dressed to match in a white tuxedo jacket, make sure the threads are classic and monochromatic. There’s nothing as elegant as a duo wearing classic attire. (Photo via Victoria Phipps Photography / Once Wed)

A White Wedding Cake

While naked wedding cakes are a popular Pinterest trend, there’s nothing classier than a white wedding cake. Ask your caterer to keep the cake design simple with textured white frosting and have your florist decorate it the day of with a few floral sprigs. (Photo via Loft Photography / Ruffled Blog)

A Minimalist-Minded Photographer

You’ll look back on your wedding photos for years to come, so you’ll want to choose a photographer that captures your aesthetic. Look for good lighting, crisp photos and documentary-style shots in their previous work. Photographers tell a story with their distinct style. Find the one that fits yours and you’ll be happy you made the extra effort! (Photo via Jill Devries Photography)

Modern Signage

Simple calligraphy and sans serif font prove how less can make a big design impact. Greet guests with cleanly designed signage that focuses on typography. (Photo via John Newsome / Green Wedding Shoes)

A Low Bun Updo

While we love a blowout, the non-fussy low bun hairstyle is a modern twist that will elevate your wedding day look to gorgeous, minimalist bride. Use shiny metallic hair clips for a minimal yet luxe look. (Photo via Sally Pinera / Once Wed)

Accent With Foliage

The beauty of a minimalist wedding? The decor is oh-so simple (aka light on your wallet) AND elegant. Accent tables with a thin garland of greenery for a look that pulls your theme together. Bonus: Saving on florals allows you to splurge elsewhere! (Photo via Peaches & Mint Photography / Wedding Sparrow)

Simple Boutonnieres

Ask your florist to wrap boutonnieres with natural green tape or a neutral color ribbon, as opposed to rustic twine which will contrast with the minimalist style. Green and white flora will keep the style simple and cohesive. (Photo via Kurt Boomer Photo / Style Me Pretty)

The Minimalist Bouquet

The bridal bouquet can be kept to a minimum with a simple color palette and an elegant arrangement. We love this minimalist combination of blooming white peonies and olive greens. (Photo via Xavier Navarro / Magnolia Rouge)

All Dressed in White

Behold, a bridal party that’s truly in sync. Have your bridesmaids dress in white for a clean and breathtaking wedding look. For where to shop, see our favorite bridesmaid’s dress brands. (Photo via Joseph Willis / The Lane)