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The Minimalist's Guide to Maximum Impact

Oct 21 / The IWED Blog

Less is More in Event Design

We know how easy it is to get sidetracked by all the sparkly, shiny objects one comes across when planning an event. We also know the urge to want to buy them all. But sometimes more isn’t always better. In fact, sometimes more is worse. Especially if it’s just for the sake of it. The human brain can only process so much! Why not make it easier on your wallets and your guests by going for a minimalist approach? Here are some tried and true ways to achieve the lusted-after look.

Whether you’re leaning toward industrial or organic minimalism, modern or vintage, the most important thing to bear in mind is balance and sparseness. This applies to color palettes and artwork as much as it does to furnishing and floral arrangements. If you prefer the former, opt for sleek metal surfaces, clean lines, and monochromatic tones. But if you prefer the latter, you can draw inspiration from the natural world. We’re talking lush greenery, pastels, and hewn wood. As long as you’re not overwhelming your guests with too many colors and embellishments. When in doubt, though, ask yourself what professional organizer Marie Kondo would do. In other words, that sculpture you simply can’t live without, does it spark joy? Can just looking at it flood your body with a sense of peace and relief? Be discerning and firm with your feelings!

Once you’ve settled on a theme, you can focus on details.Every object chosen (and withheld) presents an ideal opportunity to express a chic and toned-down sensibility. 

A floating floral wedding backdrop, for instance, would be a perfect minimalist alternative to a super ornate altar. A single protea flower or the like can evoke as much grace as a busy bouquet. And as far as tablescapes are concerned, bud vases and tapered candles are preferable to elaborate centerpieces and cluttered surfaces. The same concept applies to hors d’oeuvres. Instead of displaying them in heaped and piled formations, try arranging them into grids.

Light and existing venue features offer two other opportunities to design minimally with maximum impact. Uplighting, for example, can expose otherwise unnoticed architectural elements such as wainscotting and cornicing. Even the texture and color of walls, once illuminated, can enhance the atmosphere. Another fun and playful way to add depth to a space without adding too much embellishment or weight is through shadow-casting with scrim and latticework. It’s not only about presence, but absence.

While some prefer the controlled environment that an indoor venue can facilitate, the great outdoors is also a first-rate choice for a minimalist setting. 

Who’s a better designer than nature after all? Out there, no detail is superfluous and no amount of green, too much. All you really need are some communal tables and fairylights to set a memorable mood. The built-in backdrop already speaks volumes.

The world is complicated and cluttered enough. Why not take a break from it and its ceaseless demands to buy more with a minimalist approach?