12 Creative Ways to Make Your Black and White Wedding the Celebration of Your Dreams

A black-and-white wedding is many things — elegant, classic, timeless. With the right details, you can make this stunning wedding theme uniquely yours, too. Check out these dozen tips to make your black-and-white wedding stand out in the way you’ve always wanted.

1. Decide on Your Theme

While black and white is a gorgeous color scheme, it’s not necessarily a theme. You can choose from a wide range of themes that incorporate a monochrome or greyscale color palette.

2. Pick Your Gown

Traditional wedding gowns are white, which makes it easy to coordinate your dress with a black-and-white color scheme. However, if you’re going for a less traditional look, you can seek out black wedding gowns or dresses that incorporate both black and white.

Black lace detailing can make the intricacies of your white gown stand out even more. Consider accessories to complement your wedding dress, like a black belt, veil or gloves for a touch of contrast.

3. Coordinate With the Bridal Party

One of the best ways to incorporate the black-and-white color scheme in your wedding is through the bridal party. If you’re going for a classic, elegant look, consider black suits or tuxedos for the groomsmen and black dresses for the bridesmaids.

While it’s traditional for only the bride to wear white, you can get creative with the bridal party if you’re open to some changes. Invite your bridesmaids to wear white dresses with black polka dots, bows, belts or other patterns. 

4. Design Your Invitations

Your invitations are an excellent way to let your guests know what they can expect from your wedding’s theme and color scheme. Black-and-white invitations are simple and classy. They have a professional look, whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a more intimate affair. You can add a monochrome engagement photo for a personal touch.

5. Let Guests Know the Dress Code

Before you send out those invitations, be sure to add the dress code for your wedding to ensure everyone is on the same page. Some future newlyweds have a specific vision for what guests should wear or the venue may have a dress code.

A black-and-white theme can make every guest feel like they’re part of the celebration. Ask attendees to wear black or black-and-white attire to fit your dream aesthetic.

6. Pick the Right Venue

Some venues are better suited for a black-and-white wedding than others. Depending on your theme and how committed you are to following a strict color palette, seek out a reception hall with a simple design. Modern spaces often have a clean look with monochromatic colors and sharp angles. They provide a timeless setting for you to showcase your decor and keep the attention on the happy couple.

7. Set the Right Lighting

When your wedding colors are black and white, lighting is more important than ever. The right lighting can bring out the beautiful contrast between these colors, turning your venue into a stunning sight no one will forget.

Lighting can make all the difference, whether in a church where natural light through stained glass windows provides a dazzling pop of color or a minimalist reception hall.

8. Choose Pops of Color Carefully

While your wedding might have a black-and-white palette, you don’t need to shun all other colors completely. From your bridal bouquet and table centerpieces to small details on your gown or bridal party dresses, you can incorporate small splashes of color that complement your theme.

Be sure to use a discerning eye and don’t go overboard — too much color can overwhelm your theme. Stick to small and meaningful details that provide beautiful visuals while enhancing the black-and-white elegance of your wedding.

9. Arrange for Your Flower Arrangements

Flowers are an excellent way to incorporate a natural splash of color into your wedding without oversaturating your black-and-white theme. You can find beautiful bouquets, centerpieces and other decorative floral arrangements in nearly any color.

Pick soft pastels like pink and yellow for a light touch or go classically bold with red roses. Eye-catching floral arrangements amid a white-and-black color scheme will highlight the natural style and flair of your wedding.

10. Cater With Your Color Scheme in Mind

The wedding cake is often a show-stopper at the reception. A black-and-white cake is a fun and easy way to emphasize the theme of your celebration. Go for a chic look with cake tiers alternating between black and white or a marble pattern that looks and tastes delicious.

You can even incorporate your colors into the rest of your menu, such as dark and white chocolate-covered strawberries or vanilla custard with blackberries. These tasty details are sure to leave an impression on your guests.

11. Find the Right Photographer

Your wedding day might feel like a blur — photographers and videographers are essential for capturing the day to ensure you can remember and relive it for years to come. A black-and-white wedding is full of contrast and beautiful snapshots. Make sure you hire the right photographer to document your day.

Whether you want tons of posed photos or prefer more casual, documentary-style candids, there’s a photographer out there for you. Many wedding photographers specialize in black-and-white photography, which can add a timeless and artistic touch to your memories. 

12. Party Hard at a Black and White Reception

From the dancefloor to the table settings, there are endless ways to customize your wedding reception. White linens with black place settings or chairs provide a clean and classy look. Create a monochromatic photo backdrop so guests can take pictures and share the fun together. If you’re ready to party, a monogrammed black-and-white dance floor invites everyone to show off their moves all night long.

Details to Make Your Black and White Wedding Stand Out

Black-and-white weddings are tasteful and stylish — and you can make yours stand out with a few key details. Your gown, floral arrangements, venue and decor are excellent ways to incorporate contrasting colors. Get the most out of your special day and celebrate your love with this classic color scheme.