Needless to say, a classic wedding will never go out of style. Neither fad nor era will influence your style choices. You’ll be able to blissfully look back through your wedding photo albums on your 30th anniversary and not regret a single element of your ceremony or reception.
We talked to Randi Yarrell, Owner and Principal Planner of Rae Lawson Events, to get her insight and expertise on choosing a wedding style. She noted, “My best advice to any and every couple [searching for their wedding style] is to look inward. Don’t be afraid to express who you are in every way possible. It’s a great exercise as a couple to explore the things that make you unique as an individual and the blending of styles in your union. Your inspiration can reveal itself simply from your daily routine or special moments in the relationship.”
Although classic weddings are not rooted in trends, you can combine traditional and trendy elements to put a modern spin on your timeless wedding style. Consider a classic boho style, timeless beach wedding, or any other combination.
We’ve searched through thousands of PartySlate’s real events to bring you 9 ideas for your classic wedding. From traditional arches to elegant centerpieces, see why classic celebrations last the test of time.
1. Choose a Venue That Sets the Tone
The venue you choose for your wedding sets the tone of the event. Whether a chic barn or an ornate mansion, there are plenty of timeless options in your city to browse through on PartySlate.com.
photo courtesy of & venue: Alila Napa Valley
See Morephotographer: Dana Cubbage Weddings | The Cedar Room
See Morephoto courtesy of & planner: Say I Do to Details, LLC
See Morephotographer: Angela Lauren Co | Wise Events & Design | The Farmhouse Events
See More2. Go With A Classic Color Scheme
Black & White
For a couple with a timeless sense of style, this color scheme is traditional and sleek. You can look through hundreds of real weddings on PartySlate to find your perfect classic color scheme. Make sure to work with a wedding planner to ensure your vision becomes reality.
photographer: Jill Person Photography | Sara Kovel Events
See Morephotographer: Nathaly Norman | The Country Club of the South
See Morephotographer: Shumanev Production | The Lighter Side
See MoreAll White
An all white wedding is eternally classic. This color scheme will forever be in style, and we can see why.
photographer: Bob & Dawn Davis Photography & Design
See Morephotographer: Pen / Carlson | Waldorf Astoria Chicago Hotel
See Morephotographer: Duke Images
See MoreNavy Blue
A navy blue wedding brings new life to a traditional wedding style, while still remaining a classic that stands the test of time.
photographer: Apollo Fotografie
See Morephotographer: LaCour Images
See Morephotographer: Anne Rhett Photography | Ooh! Events
See More3. Incorporate Timeless Details From the Beginning
Details as seemingly simple as invitations and ceremony programs will leave a lasting impression with your guests. Make sure to infuse your classic wedding style into even the smallest details of your wedding day.
Yarrell explains, “One of my favorite elements in a traditional wedding is the ceremony program. I think sometimes we tend to underestimate the value of the program, however one could argue that a program sets the tone not just visually but experientially. Some guests even enjoy taking the wedding program home to have as a keepsake from your special day.”
photographer: Lisa Blume Photography; Lynette Boyle Photography | The Gilded Aisle Weddings
See Morephotographer: Elin Hughes Photography | FunkyTown Affairs
See Morephotographer: Alexandra Lee Photography | Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
See Morephotographer: Akil Bennett Photography | Grayhouse Events Atelier
See More4. Choose A Quintessential Wedding Arch
Classic squared arches are a timeless look. You have the option to modernize it with your florals around the base or opt for a lucite squared arch with florals all over. Make sure to find your décor company on PartySlate and browse endless inspiration. Your wedding planner can also help you come up with a vision for your arch and other décor.
photographer: Bob & Dawn Davis Photography & Design
See Morephotographer: Dave Robbins Photography | David Beahm Experiences
See Morephotographer: Apollo Fotografie
See Morephotographer: You Me Photography | The Metropolitan
See Morephoto courtesy of: Epic Floral Design
See Morephoto courtesy of: Forever Young Events
See More5. Seated in Tradition: Pick Classic Seating Arrangements
Guest Seating
You can’t go wrong with traditional round banquet tables at your reception. These tables allow for easy conversation and avoids anyone having to sit at the dreaded corner of the table. Find a rental company that can provide you with the optimal seating arrangements for your ceremony and reception on PartySlate.
photographer: Dennis Lee Photography | Christina Currie Events, Inc.
See Morephotographer: f8studio | Sarabeth Events
See Morephotographer: Mariel Hannah Photo | Culinary Eye Catering & Events
See MoreHead Table
A classic head table with the couple in the center and the wedding party on either side is the most traditional option.
photographer: Convey Studios Photo & Video | The Westin Dallas Downtown
See Morephoto courtesy of: LaCour Images
See MoreSweetheart Table
A sweetheart table is modern and romantic, while still remaining an effortless classic. We also love how this seating option gives you and your beloved a moment of intimacy after the ceremony.
photographer: Natalie Probst Photography | Shannon Gail Events
See Morephotographer: iLiveart | SG3 Events
See More6. Elevate Your Nuptials With Timeless Florals & Centerpieces
Your florals and centerpieces are the star of the show, so keep them timeless, elegant, and sophisticated. White florals with greenery are a beautiful staple that go with everything. Find your florist on PartySlate with our vendor search.
photo courtesy of: Ciao Bella Weddings
See Morephotographer: Berkley Mcgaughey Photography | Wyndham Grand Jupiter At Harbourside Place
See Morephotographer: Dennis Lee Photography | Christina Currie Events, Inc.
See Morephotographer: You Me Photography | The Metropolitan
See Morephotographer: Convey Studios Photo & Video | The Westin Dallas Downtown | Crystal Frasier Weddings
See Morephotographer: Pen and Lens | Toast & Jam DJs
See More7. Capture Timeless Moments
The photographs of your wedding day will live on forever, serving as precious memories you can always look back on. Make sure to discuss your “must-have shots” with your photographer before the ceremony and reception. If you are unsure, check out our wedding photography checklist to spark inspiration for your timeless wedding.
photographer: Jessi Nichols | Kelli Corn Weddings & Events
See Morephotographer: Virgil Bunao | Montage Palmetto Bluff
See More8. Dig Into Classic Wedding Cake Styles
It’s hard to go wrong when choosing your wedding cake. After all, it’s cake. When it comes to keeping it classic, go with pure white buttercreams, fondants, and white sugared florals. Browse through inspiration for your classic wedding cake and then find your vendor to make it come to life.
photographer: Erica Ferrone Photography | Sara Kovel Events
See Morephotographer: Dennis Lee Photography | Christina Currie Events, Inc.
See Morephotographer: Booth Photographics | Bliss Events Chicago
See Morephotographer: Jill Person Photography | Sara Kovel Events
See More9. Plan a Stylish Exit
End your night in style with a classic wedding exit. From sparklers to streamers, choose and exciting, yet traditional way to exit your wedding venue surrounded by your loved ones.
photographer: Marissa Maharaj | KG Events & Design
See MorePeople Also Ask …
What classifies a classic wedding?
A classic wedding tends to be more formal. What sets a classic wedding apart from other wedding styles is its simplicity and elegance. This wedding style is not rooted in trends or fads, rather timeless traditions and décor.
How do you plan a classic wedding?
The best and most simple way to plan your wedding is with PartySlate. Look through hundreds of real weddings, find floral and décor inspiration, and so much more. Moreover, hire a trusted top wedding planner that can help you line up all of your vendors for your chic classic and traditional wedding.