A modern and moody wedding is the perfect way to show off your unique style and create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. But planning this type of dream wedding can seem overwhelming. From picking out the right decorations to finding the perfect venue, there’s a lot to think about. Here are some tips for planning a modern and moody wedding that will ensure everything goes smoothly from top wedding pros.


Choose a Venue with Style

When it comes to creating a modern and moody atmosphere, the venue you choose is absolutely essential. Look for places that have plenty of natural light during the day, but also have enough darkness in them so you can show off your romantic lighting choices at night. Try to pick places that have interesting architectural features as well, like exposed brick walls or high ceilings—anything that will enhance your overall look and feel.

Conch Concierge Weddings

“Take the stress out of destination wedding planning and hire a planner who knows the top locations and has strong relationships with talented event professionals,” says Michael Vernon owner of Conch Concierge Weddings, a company specializing in Key West wedding packages.

Big Daddy Walker Productions

“Be sure to add a couple of bridal shows or venue open houses to your planning mix,” says Allen Walker, owner of Cincinnati DJs Big Daddy Walker Productions. “You’ll find lots of fresh ideas and it’s a good way to get to know your potential vendors.”

My Event Pros

Alan Chavez, a Los Angeles wedding DJ and owner of My Event Pros, is a firm believer in entertainment teams. “The DJ experience kicks in only when the dance floor is open. A talented MC will keep your event on schedule, keep your vendors on track and engage your guests while they are seated.”

B-Sharp Entertainment

“Don’t forget your ceremony,” reminds Brendan Lafferty, one of the top wedding DJs in Rhode Island and owner of B-Sharp Entertainment. “Not only your musical selections but mics and a sound system as well. You worked hard on those vows – make sure everyone hears them.” Live ceremony music can also enhance the guest experience.

Pick Perfect Decorations

The right decorations help bring together any space, which is why it’s important to choose them carefully when planning a modern and moody wedding. Think dark colors like navy blue or deep burgundy paired with warm, muted tones like cream or mustard yellow. Think outside of the box too—decorate with items like velvet furniture pieces, elaborate chandeliers, or ornate mirrors—all things that will give your guests something to talk about!

Volume Entertainment

“DJ’s are an invaluable resource when it comes to putting together a reception timeline. They understand there’s a flow to a reception and know how to adjust a timeline when necessary – we do it all the time,” says Rob Schneider, owner of Volume Entertainment and a wedding DJ in Connecticut.

Premier Sound

“Take advantage of multiple consultations and planning sessions with your vendors,” advises Jim Slaiman, a wedding DJ in Buffalo NY and owner of Premier Sound. “Whether it’s face to face, Zoom, or a phone call, these opportunities are the place to iron out details and do some creative brainstorming that will make your wedding uniquely yours.”

Hercules Entertainment

“Consider live streaming your wedding,” suggests William Sanchez, owner of Hercules Entertainment, specializing in DJs in Northern Virginia, including bilingual. “It’s a great way for those who can’t make the wedding to still enjoy being part of your day.”

Exquisite Sounds Entertainment

“Don’t micromanage your playlist,” says Toryn Lankford, a DJ in Atlanta and owner of Exquisite Sounds Entertainment. “You’ve hired a professional to create an amazing party atmosphere. We’ll make sure we get your favorites seamlessly blended into the mix and avoid songs you do not want.”

Go Big on Lighting

Lighting plays an especially important role in creating a modern and moody atmosphere. Go big on lighting by choosing dramatic chandeliers or string lights draped around the room for extra ambiance (and don’t forget candles!). You can also incorporate colored lights into your decor to give it an even more unique touch.

The Mackey House

“Get your partner onboard with planning and delegate certain tasks,” says Trey Mackey, owner of The Mackey House, an elite wedding venue in Savannah, GA. “It’s only fitting that you take this journey together. And you’ll get a lot more done – and quicker – if you have your other half help you.”

The Estate at Florentine Gardens

Says Ciro Diadone from The Estate at Florentine Gardens, a top wedding venue in north New Jersey, “Venues are great resources for finding other wedding professionals. They witness the talent of vendors on a regular basis. Build your vendor team with experienced pros who work well together.”

Coastal DJ & Video

“Entertainment companies offer more than just DJ’s,” explains George Wainwright, owner of Coastal DJ & Video and a wedding DJ in Wilmington, NC. “Ask about packaging entertainment with other services like lighting, photo booths, and videography that really enhance the event.”

Elevated Events

As wedding decorators in Chicago, Aly Heintz Raddatz and his team at Elevated Events, affirm “Lighting is one of the most transformative decorating elements and always adds a “wow” factor to any reception. It creates amazing ambiance for your reception.”


Planning a modern and moody wedding doesn’t have to be intimidating! With these tips as your guide, you’ll be able to plan an event that will wow both you and your guests alike. Remember: it’s all about finding the perfect venue with lots of natural light, choosing decorations in dark shades mixed with warm tones, and incorporating dramatic lighting – from chandeliers to candles – into every corner of the room! With these steps in mind, you’ll be sure to plan a modern and moody wedding that everyone will remember for years to come!

Brian Lawrence is a wedding business marketing expert who has helped thousands of clients like Alan Berg and Joe Bunn with consulting, marketing and web design. We’ve partnered with Brian Lawrence to bring this great advice from some of his amazing clients.