We can all agree, the Nancy-Meyers style interiors are #goalz. So how does this coastal grandma style translate into a wedding style your friends will be dying to copy?
Take it from someone who loved this style long before it was trending, I’ve done a complete design analysis on this (timeless) trending look, and have translated which elements will work best for your wedding day. So, without further ado, here is your guide to coastal grandma wedding style:
What is Coastal Grandma Style?
Generally speaking, this look is associated with a woman in her late 50s to early 60s, living on the East Coast with views of the ocean, she goes to the market every morning, takes sunset walks on the beach, and she always has something scrumptious waiting for you in her all-white kitchen. Most likely she’ll also have a gorgeous interior that is bathed in whites and soft cool tones, that while pristine, is still comfortable and lived in. It’s an idyllic lifestyle look that has been made popular by Nancy Meyers movies including “It’s Complicated,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” and of course, “The Holiday.”
What are the Elements of Coastal Grandma Style?
- A base white with nature-inspired colors like linen, oatmeal, sand, soft green or blue accents
- Natural elements that are high in texture: jute, rattan, linen, sailcloth, marble, and handmade paper
- Décor should be timeless and sentimental, details are important, but shouldn’t be overly fussy
- NO nautical elements like anchors, boars, lighthouses. These are too obvious. The Coastal Grandmother look should “feel” coastal, but shouldn’t have any design elements that literally translates to the sea.
Design Tips
Choose a neutral base color that is somewhat “muddy” you don’t want anything to scream “BLUE!” “GREEN” Color choices should be muted and understated. Remember that texture is our main goal, and color should be soft and natural. Think of this base color like the color of your walls and sofa. They are the main color that is going to support the rest of your wedding design.
- White for a clean, modern base (great for country club wedding)
- Beige for a soft, romantic base (works well for a variety of venues)
- Gray for a moody base (a wonderful choice for fall or winter weddings)
- Blue for a more European base (especially lovely for water-side weddings OR manor weddings with a lots of stonework)
Recommended Coastal Flower Types
The key here is to choose classic white blooms and add native blooms and textures (read more about why I love local blooms here). Remember, the look is casual and should have that “just from the garden” feel. My go-to’s for this style are:
- Ranunculus
- Tulips
- White Daffodils
- Lily of the Valley
- Garden Roses
- Locally grown hydrangea
- Dahlias
- Scabiosa
- Local/Native Grasses
- Forget me nots
- Delphinium
- Yarrow
I hope this was a helpful guide to Coastal Grandma wedding style, and gives you start in thinking about your own wedding.
Like what you see? I custom design every single wedding, so your day is completely yours. We now offer décor consultations, so you can get a whole-wedding design from someone who’s aesthetic you trust.
