2020 has certainly been tough on the events and wedding industry and I feel the effects of this pandemic may still have a huge effect on the type of weddings we see in 2021.
These are my personal opinions on what to expect for wedding trends in 2021.
Small and Intimate
If 2020 has taught us anything it's that bigger does not have to mean better when it comes to your wedding day.
Couples have really embraced the small intimate weddings with many finding that they actually preferred this smaller affair and actually quite thankful that Covid gave them an excuse to have what is ultimately a cheaper, more personal wedding day experience.
Photo - Sam Sparks Photo
A Weekend Away
With destination weddings declining due to the restrictions on travel, UK destination weddings have seen a steady increase in popularity with couples choosing to escape to the countryside/seaside/or even their favourite city to elope.
A weekend away to get married is the ultimate romantic gesture. Whether you decide to elope or invite a few close friends and family it's the perfect chance to relax, unwind and celebrate your love for one another away from the distractions of home.
Photo : Emily Robinson Photo
Cottage Core
I'll be the first to admit I've been involved in a couple of weddings/shoots embracing this theme without even realising it was a thing...but apparently cottage core is the next big trend.
Think Wuthering Heights, rolling english countryside, freshly picked flowers and a romantic, nostalgic vibe.
If you think cottage core might be your think check out this fabulous feature I was honoured to be a part of over on Green Wedding Shoes
Photo : Sam Sparks Photo
Personal ceremonies
This year more than ever we have come to realise the importance of family and those we love, and of appreciating our own life and the journeys we have been on.
It's no suprise to me then that Personal Ceremonies have become more popular and I'm confident they are here to stay.
Couples spend weeks agonising over the perfect wedding outfit, and months finding their ideal venue so it makes sense that they choose a ceremony that reflects their personality as well.
If you haven't attended a Celebrant led ceremony before it can be daunting to think of having to plan two weddings ( the real wedding and the legal signing of the paperwork ) but I assure you it can be done in a very simple stress free way.
All registry offices have to offer couples multiple choices of ceremony, ranging from a registrar attending your chosen venue to a simple 2 x 2 signing at your local office.
A 2 x 2 starts from around £50 and is the perfect option to choose if you intend to have a Celebrant lead your actual wedding day celebrations.
Photo : Mark Bamforth Photography
Wed Now, Party Later
I get it. Not every couple are happy to change their plans of a big white wedding and embrace a smaller affair, which is why the Wed now, Party later trend has really been a lifesaver many couples.
Take care of the legals now and enjoy being officially married and give yourself a year or two to plan a party of EPIC proportions to celebrate with your family and friends.
Photo : Stephanie Butt Photography
Evening Ceremonies
With weddings naturally become less of an "all day event" due to Tiered restrictions like no reception at all or a limited number of guests, many couples are embracing a later ceremony and going straight from ceremony to evening meal.
Not only does this allow you to enjoy a lie in, but it stops that lethargic feeling which comes from a super long day and means you have to find less activities to entertain your guests too.
Photo : Vicky Dubios Photo
City Vibes
City centre are filled with endless picture perfect wedding locations. Graffiti filled walls for a edgy look, modern rooftops with city views for an urban chic vibe, there are a thousand possibilities.
Whilst early 2020 is still looking uncertain I'm positive that the year ahead will hold some absolutely amazing weddings.