Written by Val Rasmussen | Photos by Kenzie Victory
Want party design with maximum impact?
Try a minimalist approach. Rachael Affleck of Rachael Ellen Events and photographer Kenzie Victory reject the conventional overdone décor, princess gown and endless guest list. Instead, they focus on what matters most—a couple beginning its life together. Follow these five tips to harness sophisticated style for a Scandi-chic winter celebration.
Attract Opposites
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Like marriage, wedding design is a delicate balancing act. “It’s all about opposites and the way they work together to evoke a feeling of chic modernism without skipping out on feminine bridal details,” says Rachael Affleck of Rachael Ellen Events. Modern cymbidium blooms next to old-fashioned carnations? Marbled cake frosting in pink hues? Black tuxedo paired with the stark white gown? Yes, yes and yes.
Make a Statement
The simplicity of this stark gown makes it jaw-dropping, and it is accentuated by the fine jewels complementing it. Pairing simple fashion with statement jewels like bold, geometric earrings and unique diamond rings creates a one-of-a-kind look. “J. Brooks Jewelers pieces provided the perfect amount of classic timelessness to balance the modernity in the rest of the design,” Affleck explains.
Keep It Tailored
Never has a ponytail looked so cool. “We dressed the bride in a sleek, modern Halston Heritage gown. We kept her hair in a messy-but-chic ponytail for a twist on the traditional up-do,” Affleck says. “Our groom wore a classic tux that provided the perfect amount of tradition to balance and contrast our fashion-forward bride.”
Go For Gold
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A single table candleholder mirrors a mountain silhouette, a sentimental backdrop for many Utahns. “Use a geometric taper candle holder as the focal piece to give the design a wonderful linear yet romantic feel,” Affleck suggests. Flatware, wine cups and floral containers provide a metallic shine next to taupe carnations, tea roses, garden roses and lisianthus. Yellow cymbidium orchids and calla lilies frame the neutral-hued bridal bouquet, while scabiosa and allium add a touch of lavender and gray.
Prep Your Guests
Keep that guest list pared down and announce your minimal-chic soiree with pretty paper. “This invitation suite is a perfect balance between modern and romantic featuring a bold type paired with soft floral details,” Affleck says. Help your photographer style your invitation suite on the wedding day by adding bloom clippings, Frou Frou Chic ribbon and a velvet ring box. “These details feel luxe, mod and feminine all at once.”
Vendors:
Flowers and Styling: Rachael Ellen Events, SLC
Photos: Kenzie Victory, Provo
Cake: Flour & Flourish, Orem
Ribbon: Frou Frou Chic
Ring box: The Mrs. Box
Dress: Rent the Runway
Suit: The Black Tux
Ring: J. Brooks, SLC
Hair and makeup: Katie Livingston, Riverton
Invitation: Script Merchant
Rentals: Anthropologie at City Creek, SLC; Alice Lane Home Collection, SLC; Crate & Barrel at Fashion Place, Murray
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For more minimalist event and décor ideas, see: The New Nordic: A New Mantra for Minimalist Parties
