Cara Mia, Naya Studio
A salty breeze, golden-hour waves, and the soft crunch of sand underfoot—there’s something undeniably magical about a summer wedding by the sea. But this season, coastal-inspired decor is taking a refined, editorial turn, moving beyond the expected beach motifs into a world of sculptural shells, pearlescent hues, and oceanic elegance. Whether you're tying the knot toes-in-the-sand or simply channeling the serenity of the shoreline, these tidal trends will have your guests feeling like they’ve stepped into a dreamy, salt-kissed celebration.
Soft & Sandy Stationery
Wedding stationery is setting the tone with sandy, sun-washed neutrals that feel effortlessly elegant and deeply tied to the coast. Think handmade paper invitations and menus in soft beige and ivory, deckled edges reminiscent of waves, and subtle embossed shell motifs for a tactile, organic feel. Wax seals stamped with delicate seashells add an old-world charm, while shell-shaped invites in smooth, pearlescent finishes bring a sculptural, modern twist. The key is keeping it all refined—muted tones, natural textures, and minimalist typography that whisper coastal romance without veering into the expected beach wedding aesthetic.
Nias Papers, Bassette Events, Gathersing by Elle
Crochet & Net-Like Textures
Adding a woven, net-like quality to your tablescape instantly brings a beachy, ethereal touch with a hint of vintage charm. Crochet-style placemats and delicately woven tablecloths mimic the intricate beauty of fishing nets, but in an elevated, romantic way—soft, airy, and effortlessly draped over tables. The open-weave texture allows candlelight to filter through, creating an almost dreamlike glow, while hand-knit doilies, macramé runners, or breezy lace overlays introduce an organic, seafoam-kissed elegance. Whether layered over sandy linens or paired with shell-adorned decor, this detail feels like a quiet nod to the ocean—subtle, sophisticated, and utterly timeless.
Wayfair, Naya Studio, Alya by Design,
Hooked at Weis, Naya Studio, Tinseland Trinkets
Shell Name Cards
For a naturally elegant touch, shell name cards bring a refined, ocean-inspired element to the table. Whether using delicate oyster shells, pearlescent clamshells, or smooth scallops, each guest’s name can be hand-painted in soft calligraphy, gold leaf, or an etched engraving, blending personalization with coastal charm. The organic shapes and iridescent hues make each place setting feel bespoke, while the shells themselves double as a beautiful keepsake.
Holy Co, Heather Long Events, KD Lettering
Whimsical Sea-Inspired Flatware
Silver is the perfect accent for a coastal tablescape, reflecting light like the glimmer of waves at sunset. But this season, it’s not just about shine—it’s about irregular, sculptural designs that feel as if they’ve been shaped by the sea itself. From twisting handles reminiscent of driftwood to forks and spoons inspired by ocean creatures, this flatware brings a touch of whimsy while still feeling elevated. Some pieces mimic the scales of a fish, the fluid curves of a wave, or the delicate form of coral, creating a look that’s both organic and artful. Whether polished to a mirror-like gleam or left with a hand-forged texture, these silver details add an enchanting, otherworldly charm to any seaside celebration.
Nora Kim, Maddy Hellawell, Olga Bonne,
The Oblist, Sotheby's, Cara Mia
Shell-Shaped Glassware
Cocktails, but make them coastal. Shell-shaped glassware is making waves at weddings, turning signature drinks into little works of art. From delicate coupes molded to mimic seashells to opalescent glass tumblers that catch the light like ocean foam, these sculptural pieces bring an effortless chicness to the table. Pair them with mother-of-pearl flatware, oyster-shell salt cellars, and iridescent serving trays for a look that feels more Mediterranean summer soirée than seaside cliché—subtle, sophisticated, and endlessly chic.
Stefanie Keeler, Centa, Nora Kim
Coral & Shell Candle Holders
Sculptural coral-shaped and beachwood-inspired candle holders bring a refined, organic touch to coastal tablescapes, evoking the raw beauty of the sea without feeling overly themed. Coral candelabras mimic the delicate branches of a reef, casting intricate shadows as candlelight flickers through their sculptural forms, while driftwood-style holders add an earthy, sun-worn elegance, as if effortlessly washed ashore. For a more delicate touch, opt for a luminious finish with pearlescent shells or pearl beads anchoring the base of the candles in organic formations. Whether crafted from bleached ceramic, aged metals, or natural wood, these pieces ground the table in nature’s artistry.
Librairie Des Archives, Edenique, Cara Mia,
Anastasia Savelieva, The Oblist, PHILIA
Pearly Plates
Soft, luminous, and effortlessly chic, pearly plates are bringing a subtle shimmer to wedding tablescapes. From opalescent chargers that glow under candlelight to mother-of-pearl dinner plates with an iridescent sheen, these accents add an elevated, oceanic touch without feeling overly themed. Their natural luster mimics the movement of water, reflecting soft champagne hues or hints of seafoam depending on the light. Whether layered with sandy linens and sculptural serveware or paired with shell-inspired details, pearly plates create a modern, airy tablescape that feels both ethereal and refined.
Alina Aleksandrovna, Courtney Mawhoor, Great Ideas Novelty
Billowing White Drapery
There’s something undeniably romantic about billowing white and ivory drapery, effortlessly capturing the movement of the ocean breeze. For the ceremony, flowing chiffon or gauzy linen can frame the altar, cascading from a minimalist arch or weaving through wooden beams for an ethereal feel. Over reception tables, free-flowing fabric can be draped like a tented canopy, creating a soft, intimate atmosphere while still feeling open and airy. The movement of the fabric mimics the ocean’s rhythm, catching the light as it sways. Even delicate draped table runners, loosely gathered across sandy linens, add to the effortless coastal elegance, balancing structure with softness.
Gaby Gonzales, About You Decor, Marcel Cabello,
Casa Sacto, Paco & Aga, Ksenia Aranovskaya
