Let’s just say it: there is absolutely no shame in having a New Year’s Eve wedding.

If anything, it’s one of the most fun, celebratory, and naturally joyful nights you could choose. People are already dressed up. They’re ready to stay late. They’re in a celebratory mood before they even arrive.

The key is this:

You’re not throwing a New Year’s Eve party with a wedding attached.

You’re throwing a wedding that leans into the magic of New Year’s Eve.

Here’s how to do it the Ivory & Beau way.

1. Set the Scene: Make It Feel Like a Beautiful Party

The goal is a space that feels elevated, warm, and exciting, not tacky or themed.

Decor elements that work every time:

Candlelight everywhere (tables, bars, lounge spaces)
Disco balls mixed with softer elements
Confetti moments saved for the end of the night
Accent colors like black, champagne, ivory, soft gold, or silver
Pearls woven in subtly ex. table details, signage, napkin rings, accessories

Disco balls and confetti don’t cheapen the space when they’re paired with softness. The contrast is what makes it feel intentional.

2. Let the Sparkle Live! Just Don’t Let It Take Over

New Year’s Eve is allowed to sparkle. This is the one night where it makes sense.

Ways to include it tastefully:

Mirrored or metallic tabletops
Subtle shimmer in linens or stationery
Disco balls over the dance floor
Confetti cannons or tosses at midnight only

Save the “party” moments for the right time. That’s how the wedding still feels like a wedding.

3. Champagne is the Star (Yes, Including a Tower)

If you’re getting married on New Year’s Eve, champagne should be part of the experience.

Ideas we love:

A champagne tower moment
Glasses placed at each seat before the countdown
Bubbles flowing throughout the night
A midnight toast that feels celebratory, not forced

Champagne instantly elevates the night and ties everything together.

4. The Outfit Moment: Classic Ceremony, Fun Reception

New Year’s Eve gives you permission to do both.

For the ceremony:

A timeless, classic wedding gown
Clean lines, satin, silk, or structured lace
Something that will feel beautiful decades from now

For the reception or midnight moment:

A shorter dress, a sleeker silhouette, or something with sparkle
Fur, feathers, shimmer, or pearls
Minimal but bold or fun and flirty

This is your chance to lean into fashion and treat the reception like a celebration.

5. What the Guys Should Wear

This is the night to go classic and sharp.

Best options:

Black tuxes
Dark suits
Velvet jackets or textured fabrics
Polished shoes, crisp tailoring

It’s refined, masculine, and perfectly suited for a late-night celebration.

6. Food That Feels Like a Party (and Keeps People Dancing)

Guests will be there late, so feed them well.

Dinner

Elevated comfort food
Seasonal, hearty options
Plated or family-style to keep it social

Late-night snacks

Sliders
Truffle Fries
Pizza
Espresso or coffee bar
Dessert towers, donuts, or pastries

Late-night food is not optional on New Year’s Eve, it's part of the fun.

7. Drinks & Cocktails That Match the Mood

Beyond champagne, offer drinks that feel festive and indulgent.

Crowd favorites:

Espresso martinis
Old fashions
French 75s
Signature cocktails with a New Year’s twist

Keep it curated, not overwhelming.

8. Candles, Candles, Candles

If there’s one thing that keeps everything grounded and romantic, it’s candlelight.

Use candles to:

Warm up metallics
Balance disco balls
Keep the space intimate
Make the night feel romantic, not chaotic

Candlelight is what makes a party feel like a wedding.