Alright folks, gather let’s chat about weddings (again). Specifically, the kind that won’t make your bank account cry itself to sleep or resemble a Cirque du Soleil performance. I’m talking minimalist weddings here! Yes, the art of saying “I do” without the fuss, and possibly while wearing sneakers if you so desire. Hang on to your hats—or veils—while we navigate this serenely chic path of wedding planning.

First up, let’s tackle the guest list. Or as I like to call it, “Who do we actually like?” Here’s the secret sauce: trim it down. Minimalist weddings? It’s all about intimacy, not inviting your twice-removed cousin’s hamster sitter. Snip away anyone you haven’t had a decent conversation with in the past year. Your goal: a gathering where everyone’s name doesn’t need to be on a name tag. Save those for awkward office mixers.

Venue—think non-venue. City park? Backyard? Your trendy friend’s loft? These are not just Pinterest dreams; they are the reality of budget-friendly, heartwarming spaces that scream ‘you’. Less is more, folks. Create the celebration where you feel comfortable, where whispers of significance feel like homegrown love cheerleaders. Plus, fewer logistical nightmares mean more time for the important stuff—like choosing which playlist best represents your relationship’s Spotify personality.

Now onto the food, glorious food. Channel your inner culinary minimalist. Tapas, hors d’oeuvres, or a taco bar that rivals the best taco truck in Brooklyn. Limit the options, maximize the flavors. People remember unique bites, not the overwhelmed buffet resembling an international atlas. Less time waiting in line at a buffet means more time on the dance floor, proving once and for all that Uncle Bob does have the moves like Jagger—though only after three glasses of prosecco.

Dress code? Black tie? Maybe not. How about: Wear what makes you feel fabulous within reason? Sure, Aunt Edna might bring out her finest disco ball-inspired gown, but hey—it’s a teachable moment about self-expression. The minimalist mantra transcends into attire as well. Embrace the simplicity. Aim for fabrics and styles that whisper elegance rather than scream dramatics. You’ll be comfortably chic, and your feet will thank you for it.

Decorations. Let’s have a heart-to-heart about florals and décor. Mother Nature has been decking out this planet for eons; borrow her genius. Seasonal blooms, and simpler arrangements. Pinterest says you need an Eiffel Tower of roses? You don’t. Let the venue speak—those exposed brick walls or that shimmering waterfront do more with less. Candlelight, string lights, or even moonlight? Instant romance. Your photog (short for photographer—no flowery language needed here) will capture natural beauty—not plastic swan centerpieces. Trust me.

Then streamline the celebration activities. Speeches, a first dance, sure. But ditch the plethora of ‘traditional’ extras unless they hold true meaning for you. Want to skip the bouquet toss, the shoe game, and other elaborate rituals that could end in spilt mimosas and befuddled guests? Do it. Have a dance-off instead, or a karaoke battle. Or nothing more than the clinking of glasses and laughter.

And there you have it—your cheat sheet to planning the minimalist wedding of your dreams. Remember, the best weddings are those that reflect the personalities of the couple, not the depths of their wallets. Keep it simple. Keep it personal. Keep it you.

P.S. If you need any extra help, consider taking a look at the minimalist wedding checklist for a breakdown of what’s to come.