I don't know about you, but now that we have officially flipped the calendar to 2023, I have one thing on my mind... what trends are we going to see this year in the wedding world?! I'll admit it - I'm not the biggest fan of "trends." At the end of the day, I think it's really important for couples to choose colors, styles, and design elements that are authentic to who they are as people. Someone whose home decor is all neutral shouldn't necessarily go for a bright and colorful palette for their big day! However... there are some trends that I think are going to be mega-popular this year (and that I'm all for!).
1. Animals as Cocktail Hour Entertainment
It's no secret that I loooooove bringing unique elements to a wedding day to keep guests on their toes! We have been seeing more and more weddings rent animals (like donkeys or alpacas) for their cocktail hour. This allows guests and the wedding party to take one-of-a-kind pictures, and let me tell you - this is a MAJOR hit!! Some companies even offer a certified bartender to accompany the animal so that you can serve drinks in the animal's side saddles. Who knew a donkey could be the life of the party on your wedding day?!
2. Private Last Dance
There is no doubt that your first dance is exciting and romantic, but it isn’t necessarily as intimate as you would hope or think that it would be. After a day full of photos and all eyes on you, a private, one-on-one dance will end your night perfectly. Take it all in with your new spouse as you sway back and forth to your favorite song. I'm telling you, it's worth the extra five minutes in your timeline!! Plus, your planner can use this time to line your guests up outside for your grand exit (win-win!).
3. Mismatched Bridesmaids Dresses
Traditionally, all of the bridesmaids' dresses are the same color, cut, style, and fabric. However, we think that mismatched bridesmaids dresses are here to stay! Giving your bridesmaids the freedom to choose a style that they will be most comfortable in will lead to a happier, more confident girl gang! If you want to take it one step further, you can even let them choose their own color (just be sure to give them options within your color palette so that everything still looks cohesive!).
4. Vintage Attire & Decor
Although we are seeing many "traditional" wedding elements take a back seat to newer, modern trends, a lot of brides and grooms-to-be are choosing to stick to a more traditional, timeless theme. We see this in vintage bridal gowns, vintage getaway cards, minimal jewelry (like pearls), champagne towers, monochromatic color palettes, and so much more!
5. Live Entertainment
The overall guest experience is measured heavily on the entertainment that is provided. Live entertainment is one of our favorite trends that is making a major comeback this year. Live bands are becoming more popular in addition to (or in place of) a DJ, string musicians are getting more inquiries for ceremonies and cocktail hours, and I don't know about you, but live painters are alllll over my TikTok for you page! Such a huge hit at a wedding, trust me.
6. Embroidered Veils & Gloves
Made popular by Hailey Bieber at her 2018 wedding, embroidered veils and gloves are allll the rage these days! This one is a toss up for me personally - I love it when it's tasteful, but if it's distracting, it's a no-go.
7. Pearls
Pearls, pearls pearls! They are so popular, they needed their very own section. We are seeing tons of pearl jewelry, bridal gown accents, veils, and shoes galore. Along with their attire, brides and grooms are also adding pearls to their decor! Pearl wedding cakes have been super popular lately, and I'm here for it.
8. Champagne Towers
Goodbye cake cutting, hello champagne tower! Champagne towers seem to be replacing the tradition of a ceremonial cake cutting, and honestly, we love it. Not only are the photos from a champagne tower pour absolutely stunning, but it's a real crowd pleaser, too!
9. Unique Escort Card & Seating Chart Displays
Escort card and seating chart displays are typically one of the first things that you guests' will see/interact with at your reception. If you really want a WOW factor, skip the traditional seating chart board and pump up the creativity a little! The possibilities are seriously endless.
10. Downtown Editorial Engagement Photos
As a city girl at heart, I am 1000% here for this trend! The downtown chic city vibes are immaculate, and some couples are taking it a step further and actually traveling just for their engagement photos! Popular engagement photo destinations for 2023 include New York City, Dallas, Chicago, Miami, and Charleston!
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