What Your Wedding Style Says About You as a Couple (with some FUN!)

We know that every couple is unique. From your inside jokes to late night snack preferences, to the way you show that you love each other. So, it makes sense that your wedding style should say a lot about you and your love. Whether you walk down the aisle barefoot on a beach or say your vows under a chandelier in a grand ballroom, your wedding day is a reflection of your relationship, your personalities, and your shared vision for the future. 

So, what does your wedding style say about, not just you as individuals but as a couple? Let’s talk about some popular wedding styles and decode the message behind the mood – with some fun examples to match. 

#01: The Romantic Garden Wedding 

This is for you, if you and your partner… 

• Love watching period dramas (C’mon Bridgerton fans!) and may swoon over sentiments like handwritten cards and letters

• Love to spend your Saturdays grabbing an early morning coffee and hitting up your favorite antique shop 

• Owns at least one antique piece because it “just has character” 

You two are all about timeless love and deep connection. You probably still remember what you were wearing on your first date and you bring out each other’s softer side. You value emotion, beauty, and meaningful gestures, and your relationship has an old-soul kind of charm.

Imagine this…

Exchanging vows under a blooming archway in a lavender field, or field a garden tucked in the classic neighborhoods on Queen Anne. Guests are listening to violinists playing Bridgerton style covers and you end the night with dancing under the stars. Talk about swoon-worthy right?

#02: The Modern Minimalist Wedding 

This is for you, if you and your partner…

• Has a curated capsule wardrobe and a shared love of sleek design 

• Prefer neutrals over neons and efficiency/sustainability over extravagance

• Agree that less is more, except when it comes to your love for each other. 

You value sustainability, clarity, intention, and authenticity. You’d rather have a deep meaningful moment with an intimate group of loved ones, than throw a lavish party for 500 guests. You are grounded, self-assured, and not afraid to break traditions to stay true to yourselves. 

Imagine this…

A downtown loft or gallery in the Soho district. There are clean lines, soft lighting, and features a short and sweet ceremony. Cocktail hour is held at sunset on the rooftop and there are no frills, no fuss, just real, raw, and incredible, powerful, love. 

#03: Step into Nature Wedding 

This is for you, if you and your partner… 

• Can’t resist a good musical festival or a good thrifting haul 

• Probably owns a rescue dog, a polaroid camera, and a travel van 

• Loves adventure and traveling around the world or country 

Your love is adventurous, creative, and a little unconventional. You’re the kind of couple who doesn’t just go through the motions in life. You dance through it. You find magic in the mundane and turn ordinary moments into something memorable. 

Imagine this…

Picture a rainforest backdrop, or a hike into the cascades for an elopement ceremony. Fresh florals, greens, and nature is the backdrop for your wedding day. No extra frills and a farm to table, family style meals. 

#04: The Classic Ballroom Wedding

This is for you, if you and your partner… 

• Believes in dressing to impress and loves a black-tie event 

• Has old Pinterest boards of Royal Weddings 

• You want to opt for ballroom classes and have opportunities to practice your first dance 

• Is timeless and enjoys a touch of elegance

You and your partner are elegant, ambitious, and deeply respectful of tradition, but with your own twist. You two thrive on structure, celebrate milestones in style, and love the finer things in life. You’re a team that doesn’t just plan dreams, and you execute them flawlessly. 

Imagine this…

Thornwood castle, elegant black tie dress code and you’re wearing a custom ballgown. With the historic castle in the background, you walk down the aisle in front of the fountain. You and your guests enjoy a five-course plated dinner and champagne tower. And you end the night with a choreographed waltz.

#05: The Rustic Farm Wedding

This is for you, if you and your partner… 

• Love the outdoors, DIY projects and trips to the farmers market for the fresh picked flowers and fruit

• Would rather enjoy a campfire and s’mores than souffle 

• Feels most at home in the wide open space

Your relationship is built on warmth, comfort, and shared values. You are practical but deeply sentimental, and you know how to make each other laugh even on the tough days. You love creating memories with your hands and hearts and your friends and family are your everything. 

Imagine this…

A local farm, with wide open spaces. It may or may not have a repurposed barn with beautiful wild flower centerpieces, twinkle likes and a live folk band. Your guest book, may be a repurposed or hand made bench that your guests can sign – which will be moved to your front porch of course. 

#06: The Destination Wedding

This is for you, if you and your partner… 

• Met while traveling or bonded over a shared bucket list

• Have more stamps in your passport than magnets on your fridge

• Believe that life is meant to be an adventure and so is love

You are free spirited, spontaneous, and full of wanderlust. Your relationship is rooted in exploration and curiosity. You’re the kind of couple who’s just as happy getting lost in a new city as you are in finding yourself in each other. 

Imagine this…

You invite your 20 closest family and friends to an all inclusive resort in Mexico. You say “I do” on the cliffside overlooking the ocean. The wedding was more than just a single day event, you are able to spend the weekend with your closest family and friends. 

In the end, no matter how you celebrate, your wedding is a snapshot of who you are as a couple in this magical moment of life. Whether you are dancing in a castle, or saying “I do” on a mountain top, your style tells the story of your love, your way. So go ahead and embrace the lace or rock the leather jackets. Make it vintage, make it modern, but most importantly make it you. Because in the end, that is the best kind of wedding there is. 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 20 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

How to Host an Unforgettable Cocktail Hour Your Guests Will Rave About

Months and months—and hey, sometimes even years—go into planning a wedding. Couples want to create an unforgettable experience, not just for themselves, but for their guests too. One of the most overlooked opportunities to impress? That sweet little space of time between your ceremony and reception.

We call it cocktail hour—and while it’s short, it can set the tone for everything that follows. So how do you make it more than just a filler on your timeline? Let’s turn it into one of the highlights of your wedding day.

#01: Set the Scene with the Perfect Space

The vibe you create during cocktail hour can either build excitement or send guests straight to their phones. Whether you host outdoors, under a tent, or in an open-air garden, think about the energy you want to set.

Stylish lounge furniture, bistro tables, lush florals, and warm lighting can transform any corner into a scene that feels curated and intentional.

Pro tip: Consider using a space that’s separate from your reception to create that “unfolding” effect. It helps each part of your day feel distinct and keeps that wow factor building.

#02: Serve Signature Cocktails that Tell a Story

Sure, beer and wine are classics—but signature cocktails? That’s where the personality shines.

Choose drinks that reflect your story, heritage, or wedding location. Getting married in New Orleans? Serve a Sazerac. Beach wedding? Coconut mojitos, please. And don’t forget to name them—bonus points for clever references to pets, family members, or inside jokes.

Include a non-alcoholic mocktail option so every guest feels included, and create a custom cocktail board with names and descriptions so everyone knows what they’re sipping.

#03: Wow Them with Delicious Bites

Guests will be hungry after the ceremony, and hangry guests are not the vibe. Go beyond the cheese and crackers. Offer passed bites, unique food stations, or even interactive options like a build-your-own taco trio bar.

Mix up textures and flavors, and always have options for dietary restrictions. Think vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free selections so every guest feels considered.

#04: Elevate the Entertainment

Music matters. Whether it’s a string quartet, acoustic guitarist, or curated playlist by your DJ, it sets the mood. Want to really surprise your guests? Add something unexpected like:

• A strolling violinist

• A live painter

• A caricature artist

• A photobooth with custom props

This is where you can get creative and show your personality.

#05: Think About Guest Comfort

Chances are you’ll be off taking photos post-ceremony, so make sure your guests are taken care of in your absence.

• Provide seating (not just high tops) for older guests or anyone in heels
• Add rugs, throw pillows, and cozy lounge furniture
• If it's hot: offer fans, parasols, chilled towels, and iced water
• If it's cold: bring in heaters, cozy blankets, or even a hot cider station

Comfort is key—and your guests will thank you for it.

#06: Create Instagram-Worthy Moments

You know what they say—if it’s not on the ‘gram, did it even happen?

Incorporate photo-friendly backdrops and surprise design details that’ll have guests reaching for their phones:

• Neon signage

• Floral walls or hanging installations

• Personalized stir sticks and napkins

• A vintage mobile bar cart

• A themed corner that ties into your story

And of course, don’t forget your wedding hashtag!

#07: Keep the Flow Smooth and the Energy High

Timing is everything. Cocktail hour should usually last 45–60 minutes. Keep an eye on the vibe—if guests start losing energy or looking around aimlessly, it’s time to move them into the reception.

Make sure your planner or day-of coordinator is keeping everything flowing smoothly. From music cues to food delivery and glass clearing, this is where behind-the-scenes magic matters.

So Raise a Glass…

Cocktail hour may be one small part of your wedding day, but when done right, it becomes a defining moment. It’s where your guests feel welcomed, connected, and fully immersed in the celebration.

With a little planning, a touch of personality, and thoughtful design, your cocktail hour won’t just be a break in the schedule—it’ll be a moment.

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 20 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

How to Add Unexpected (but Totally You!) Details Into Your Wedding Design

Your wedding is one of the most meaningful days of your life. So, why not make it as uniquely you as possible? Sure, we know that specific wedding traditions have their place. But not every wedding has to follow the same formula. Our most memorable weddings to coordinate have been the ones where our couples let their personalities shine through the details. We encourage you to think beyond color schemes and seating charts. Think about those unexpected touches, those little built in elements that say, this is SO us. It’s these moments that make your wedding truly unforgettable. 

Here are our favorite ways to weave the unexpected (but totally you) details into your wedding design, without going over the top or losing sight of the big picture. 

START AT YOUR LOVE STORY.

Let YOUR LOVE story inspire the theme. Your relationship has a story. Every relationship has its origin story. Did you meet in college? Then, incorporate nods to your alma mater in your decor or signage. Did you have your first date at a pizza shop? Maybe set up a wood-fired slice station during your cocktail hour. Are you and your partner obsessed with hiking or road trips? Use maps, travel tags, or trail markers as your table numbers. Remember that designing a wedding doesn’t just mean it needs to be beautiful. It needs to also feel personal. You want your guests to walk in and say, “This is SO them.” And if they do that? You know you’ve nailed it. 

PERSONALIZE YOUR CEREMONY SPACE. 

The ceremony space is the first thing your guests will see upon arrival. It is also the heart, the basis of your wedding day. So why not make it feel uniquely yours? Instead of the standard arch or floral setup, consider: 

Think about….a circle of florals symbolizing eternity and unity. Or a custom-built backdrop painted or designed to reflect your favorite place or memory. You’ll want to include meaningful heirlooms, fabrics, and symbolic items from your culture or history. 

PLAY WITH THE UNEXPECTED 

We love the unexpected. Don’t feel limited by the typical blush, gold, white, and green wedding palettes. Think about the colors that speak to you – not just on Pinterest. Do you love moody tones? Then lean into deep emerald, plum, and rust. Are you and your partner all about bold and bright energy? Then try cobalt blue with hot pink and sunny orange. Or if you prefer neutrals, add texture and metallic accents to keep things exciting. Having an unexpected color palette doesn’t mean clashing. It means designing a palette that surprises and delights you while feeling cohesive. 

INFUSE YOUR PERSONALITY

You can infuse you and your partner's personality into your wedding attire. Wedding day fashion doesn’t have to be traditional. It just has to be true to who you are. We love fun and unexpected fashion ideas. Have you thought about a colored wedding dress? Who doesn’t love a little pop of blush, blue, or green? You can also add personality into your suit or dress with custom embroidery inside. Or are you an accessory fan? Add matching leather jackets, denim, or sneakers for your reception. Are you blending two different cultures? Then add cultural elements to give a nod to your families and traditions and think of fun ways to intertwine them. Encourage your wedding party to reflect their own style too. Mismatched outfits, bold accessories, and fun footwear can bring individuality to a group look. 

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR SIGNAGE

Wedding signage is the perfect place to sprinkle in your humor, preferences, heart, or a touch of sass. Think beyond the basic, unplugged ceremony, cocktail napkins, and seating charts. And get creative! Here are some of our favorite ideas: 

• “No Phones, Just Vibes” 

• Cocktail napkins with your dogs faces 

• A custom seating chart designed like a bookshelf or passport board 

• Or interactive seating charts that reveal a picture 

Signs can help set the tone for your style. Think about details that can be incorporated to celebrate who you and your partner are. 

RETHINK THE GUEST EXPERIENCE: 

Don’t forget about your guests. You want to think about how your guests will experience your wedding from the day of arrival, to the last dance. Find ways to delight them. Things guests love that are unexpected: 

• Live ceremony or reception music to get them ready to dance and groove

• Interactive food stations, such as dumpling folding, s’mores fire pit, or build your own taco bar

• Create a custom scent or essential oil blends that guests can associate with your wedding day

• Polaroid or video confession booths in lieu of the traditional guest book. 

You want your wedding day to not just be about watching your love story unfold, but you want your guests to feel a part of your wedding day. 

DESIGN A RECEPTION SPACE WITH A WOW FACTOR 

We love a good wow factor. Whether your reception space is in a ballroom, backyard, or barn, there are many ways to make your reception stand out. Use unexpected lighting, such as string lights, lanterns, neon signs or candles in creative ways. Talk to your planner or florist about ceiling installations. Think outside of the box for statement tablescapes. Bring on the velvet runners, mixed vintage glassware, or themed centerpieces built on things you and your partner love and enjoy. And our personal fav, set up cozy concerns with rugs, pillows, and vintage furniture. The goal isn’t just to decorate. It’s to create an atmosphere that reflects who you are. 

Whatever you decide, think about what makes you, you and lean into it. The most memorable weddings aren’t always the most extravagant, they are the most honest and vulnerable. When your wedding feels like a reflection of your spirit, people remember it for life. So, in a world full of cookie-cutter weddings, yours should feel like a breath of fresh air. By adding unexpected touches (but totally you) details into your wedding design, you’re not just planning a party, you’re telling a story. Let go of what you think weddings should look like or are expected. Create something real. Something bold. And something that could only belong to you and your partner. 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.