Weddings used to be a simple affair where couples would exchange vows and celebrate with family and friends. But, as time moves on, weddings have become more elaborate, expensive, and modernized. There are so many different elements that go into planning a modern wedding, from the venue and decor to the dress code and menu. With so much to think about, it can be overwhelming for couples who are looking to tie the knot. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring everything you need to know about planning a modern wedding. From the latest wedding trends to the do’s and don’ts of wedding planning, we’ve got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of modern weddings!

1. What is a contemporary or modern wedding style?

A modern or contemporary wedding style is perfect for couples who love sleek and minimalistic aesthetics. This wedding theme features a minimalist approach to design with sculptural shapes, clear lucite materials, and mirrored elements. Modern wedding venues include contemporary art museums, mid-modern homes, and glass conservatories. For attire, brides can opt for minimalistic dresses with bold accessories while grooms may go for sleek lines with tuxedos or contemporary suit styles. [1][2]

2. Benefits of having a modern-themed wedding

Having a modern-themed wedding offers a range of benefits for the bride and groom. With a focus on simplicity, this theme allows for a chic and elegant celebration without feeling overly themed. The couple also has the advantage of being able to choose from a variety of modern venues, attire, and decor ideas to create a stunning aesthetic. Additionally, a minimalistic approach to wedding planning can lead to less stress and more flexibility in terms of budgeting and location options. [3][4]

3. Modern venues for your wedding

Modern wedding venues offer couples a sleek and stylish environment for their special day. They often include state-of-the-art technology, experienced event coordinators, and all-inclusive packages that can make wedding planning easier and more affordable. Some popular modern venue options include ballrooms, event centers, lofts, and private estates. Couples can choose a modern venue that reflects their style and vision for their wedding day. [5][6]

4. Modern attire ideas for the bride and groom

For a modern wedding, the bride and groom have a range of attire options to choose from. The bride can opt for a sleek and minimalist gown with clean lines and subtle details, or even try a jumpsuit for a bold and fashion-forward look. The groom can experiment with unconventional colors and fabrics in their suits, such as textured velvet or a deep navy blue. Non-traditional accessories like statement earrings or a bow tie made of unconventional materials can also add a modern touch to the couple’s wedding day attire. [7][8]

5. Decor tips for creating a modern wedding

One key tip for creating a modern wedding decor is to simplify the color palette, often sticking to neutral hues like whites, grays, and blacks. Metallics like gold, rose gold, and silver can also add some glam. Minimalist wedding dresses with clean lines and angular silhouettes can also enhance the modern aesthetic. Additionally, incorporating contemporary lighting with stunning chandeliers can serve as a focal point for the wedding reception. Balloons, tassels, and paper art can add unique flair to floral decor. [9][10]

6. Minimalism vs excessive decoration in modern weddings

In modern weddings, the emphasis is on minimalism over excessive decoration. Instead of going overboard with decorations, the focus should be on sleek and elegant designs. Simple touches like white drapery, greenery, and clear objects can transform the venue into a stunning modern aesthetic. For a modern-themed wedding, less is definitely more. The décor should appear purposeful and elegant, without being cluttered with excessive embellishments. [11][12]

7. Budgeting for a modern-themed wedding

To have a modern-themed wedding, it’s important to create a budget. The Knot’s 2022 Real Weddings Study found that the average cost of a wedding, excluding the engagement ring, is $30,000. Creating a wedding cost breakdown based on actual data can help couples allocate their funds to important aspects of their wedding. The study reveals that venue, catering, and wedding bands are typically the biggest budget items, comprising 37%, 29%, and 13%, respectively. Couples should also consider allocating funds for photography, flowers, and videography. Ultimately, a wedding budget breakdown should be used as a guide as each couple’s budget breakdown will differ based on their unique priorities and circumstances. [13][14]

8. Organizing plans for a modern wedding

Organizing a modern wedding can be time-consuming and stressful. To make the process easier, the couple should start planning much sooner than they think they need to, set a budget, delegate tasks, and choose the right venue. It’s important to consider catering and entertainment costs, and to be specific about what is expected of friends and family involved in the planning process. Hiring a wedding planner can also make the process smoother and less stressful. [15][16]

9. Unique features and must-haves for a modern wedding

A modern wedding should have unique features and must-haves to make it stand out from a traditional one. These include bold colors and chic black accents, sleek and minimal dress shapes for the bride, a contemporary suit or tuxedo for the groom, ghost chairs for the ceremony, black plates and flatware for the reception tablescape, and a minimalistic approach to design. Personal touches can also be incorporated to make the celebration feel bespoke to the couple. [17][18]

10. Pandemic-specific considerations for a modern wedding

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, couples planning a modern wedding need to consider pandemic-specific factors. The guest list should be limited, and couples can choose between hosting a virtual or a small and intimate wedding. Clear communication regarding health and safety measures is important, and couples should work closely with their vendors to ensure they are understanding and accommodating. Additionally, couples may consider postponing their wedding or having a minimony now and a larger celebration later. [19][20]