Trends Taking Over the Wedding Industry

Destination weddings are one of the top trends in the industry, as reported by specialists, Brides. The fact that travel restrictions have been lifted in a vast majority of countries is testimony to the extent to which the world is entering a period of new normality. The wedding sector has responded in a big way after a high percentage of postponements in 2020 and 2021, with many wedding providers reporting they are fully booked for 2022 and part of 2023. If you have just got engaged, keep the following trends in mind and make it a day to remember—not only for you, but also for your friends and loved ones.

Sparing No Expense

Having an extra year or two to save, coupled with the downturn in tourism over the past few years, means that couples are willing to spend more on their big day, celebrating big events with a high ‘wow’ factor. Couples are opting for everything from elegant venues to elaborate floral installations, lighting displays, and chic chill-out areas for guests. Brides are choosing to wear two or three dresses (for the ceremony, reception, and party). Spending is up on reception meals, and large budgets are also being set aside for professional photography (including drone video footage) and wedding entertainment.

Intimacy Is In Too

It is intriguing to see that personal, intimate weddings are also holding sway, with some couples deciding to celebrate alongside a small guest list comprising their immediate family and very best friends. It’s all about togetherness, with many couples overjoyed by being able to see family from abroad that they may not have seen since the start of the pandemic. Some couples are selecting to rent luxury villas in coastal and mountainside areas so they can play host to loved ones in the days leading up to their wedding, while enjoying pre-wedding barbecues and garden parties.

Combining Ceremonies and Honeymoons

Destinations like Ibiza, Marbella, the Amalfi Coast, Santorini, and Phuket are once again fully booked in terms of wedding planning, venues, resorts, and villas. Many couples are keen to combine their ceremony and honeymoon into one, selecting paradisiacal destinations where they can enjoy a host of activities—everything from snorkeling to going on a safari. Las Vegas, as always, is big among couples wishing to tie the knot without long waits and excessive paperwork. Organizing a wedding in Vegas is quick since couples can decide to get married on the same day. Vegas is also home to a host of venues, restaurants, romantic hotels and B&Bs. Fashion houses and jewelry stores to suit all budgets abound as well. 

Outdoor Weddings

The past couple of years have seen consumers express a greater interest in sustainability and environmental responsibility and this trend has manifested itself in the wedding industry as well. Couples are choosing eco-friendly resorts with a good reputation for energy and water savings to host their events. They are also opting for organic, ‘slow food’ made with locally sourced produce. Savvy couples are also ensuring that their menu has more plant-based options, with wedding apps being used to ensure that the needs of guests with special dietary requirements are catered for. 

The wedding industry is back in full swing and couples are looking to party like they never have before. Big, glamorous weddings are back, but intimate, family-centered affairs are also popular, especially among couples with family members from abroad who wish to focus on their loved ones. Destination weddings and those celebrating the beauty of nature are also trending, owing in no small part to the beautiful photo opportunities they offer.