Scandinavian wedding decor is about creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and nature. It's a style that emphasizes quality over quantity, making each element carefully chosen and significant to the wedding aesthetic. Elegant Scandinavian weddings often reflect the principles of Scandinavian design, emphasizing minimalism, functionality, and clean lines.

Key elements of Scandinavian wedding decor

First and foremost, the Scandinavian decor is characterized by its simplicity. Clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on essential elements are hallmarks of Scandinavian design. But it doesn’t mean it’s plain and boring. Geometric patterns, such as stripes, chevrons, and simple geometric shapes, are sometimes incorporated into textiles like table runners, napkins, and chair covers. These patterns add visual interest while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic.

Speaking of Scandinavian wedding colours, it’s mostly a neutral colour palette with shades of white, cream, grey, and soft pastels as the primary colours. Natural colour pallet is maintained by choosing natural materials in decor like wood, stone, and metal. Wooden tables, chairs, and decor elements add warmth and texture to the overall design. Also, soft, natural textiles like linen and cotton are often used in Scandinavian wedding decor adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the overall look. Table runners, chair cushions, and drapery may feature these textiles. Scandinavian wedding decor includes comfortable seating arrangements. Wooden or upholstered chairs, benches, or lounge areas with cosy seating options contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

Connection to nature is rooted deeply in Scandinavian design and wedding decorations, as Scandinavian weddings often incorporate seasonal elements. In winter, you might find faux fur throws, pinecone decorations, and snowflake motifs. In summer, lighter decor with floral patterns and blooms may be used. Couples often incorporate fresh, local foliage and greenery, such as eucalyptus, ferns, and evergreen branches, into floral arrangements, table centrepieces, and decor. Natural elements are complemented by high-quality tableware and crystal glassware that add a touch of elegance.

Scandinavian weddings make the most of natural light. Wedding venues with large windows, glass walls, and outdoor settings are favoured to let in as much daylight as possible. For a wedding in the evening, candlelight is used. Candles, lanterns, and candelabras are prominent features of Scandinavian weddings. They create a cosy and intimate atmosphere, especially during winter weddings with shorter daylight hours.

Scandinavian wedding flowers

Just as with other decor elements, Scandinavians opt for minimalist wedding flowers. Floral arrangements tend to be simple and unfussy, often featuring a single or a few types of flowers in neutral tones. Scandinavian wedding centrepieces are often made of wildflowers.

For spring weddings in Scandinavia, a popular choice is tulips and daffodils. These cheerful flowers are often associated with the arrival of spring and are used to add a pop of colour to wedding bouquets and centrepieces. Lilacs bloom in late spring and are known for their fragrant purple and white blossoms. They are used to create romantic and fragrant arrangements.

Peonies are a favourite for summer weddings in Scandinavia due to their large, lush blooms and sweet fragrance. They come in various shades, including white, pink, and coral. Roses are a classic choice year-round, but they are especially popular in summer when they come in a wide array of colours and varieties. While lavender is often used for its aromatic qualities, it adds a touch of charm to summer wedding decor. Many couples opt for locally sourced wildflowers, which bloom abundantly in the summer, to create rustic and natural arrangements.

Sunflowers, with their bright yellow petals, are a cheerful choice for fall weddings, reminiscing about the summer. Dahlias and chrysanthemums are a standout choice for autumn weddings in Scandinavia. They come in rich, warm colours like burgundy, orange, and deep red. Additionally, eucalyptus leaves are a popular choice for greenery in autumn wedding bouquets and centrepieces.

In the winter, evergreen branches, such as pine and fir, are commonly used in floral arrangements and decor for their seasonal appeal and fresh scent. White roses are a symbol of purity and are often chosen for winter weddings in Scandinavia to create elegant and timeless arrangements. Holly branches with red berries can add a festive touch to winter wedding decor, making them ideal for holiday-themed weddings. But amaryllis flowers come in rich reds and whites and are frequently used in winter bouquets and centrepieces.

The biggest Scandinavian wedding trend: eco-friendly wedding

The minimalistic approach, seasonality, natural tones and textures in Scandinavian weddings go hand in hand with eco-consciousness. By focusing on Scandinavian minimalist decor and natural influences, you can create a sustainable wedding that not only reflects your style but also aligns with eco-friendly practices. Remember that every small decision, from the choice of materials to the amount of decor used, can contribute to a more environmentally responsible celebration.

Sticking to Scandinavian minimalist decor, incorporating natural elements, and drawing overall influences from Scandinavian design can significantly contribute to making your wedding more sustainable. Minimalist decor encourages you to use fewer decorations, focus on quality over quantity and rely on simple, timeless, and durable elements. This means you're less likely to purchase excessive decor items that may go to waste after the wedding. Many minimalist decor items can be reused or repurposed in your daily life or future events, reducing the need for new purchases and waste.

Scandinavian design often emphasizes the use of natural and sustainable materials like wood, stone, and metal. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives. Using natural elements allows you to incorporate locally sourced and seasonal items into your decor, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Also, locally grown and seasonal flowers are a sustainable choice and reduce the environmental impact associated with flower transportation and production.

Author: Renāte Berga

Design: Mørch & Rohde

Photography: Julia Garcia Prat