First Look: 2021 Wedding Trends

Although 2020 has certainly been a defining year in the wedding industry, it's no secret it was one that was very hard to predict. This year has brought so much change, perspective, creativeness and individuality back into weddings. Couples have embraced the new normal to the fullest. They are finding unique ways to celebrate their day, forgoing some of the 2020 predicted trends. This required going back to the drawing board, shifting their focus and creating fresh ideas of their own. Although there is no doubt this mindset will continue through to 2021 this past year has truly set the tone for some new wedding trends which are both here to stay and emerging.

Here’s a look at five trends that you can expect to see (and see more of) for 2021 weddings.

Micro Weddings and Elopements
When narrowing down your guest list there will certainly be a continued focus on the ones nearest and dearest to your hearts. Many engaged couples will need to scale back on their numbers or create an intimate elopement style wedding with a heavy focus on beautiful details and unforgettable experiences. With guest lists going down we are going to see a lot more genuine moments as authenticity is on the rise. Having a smaller guest list means couples can have more fun designing tablescapes, thoughtfully including statement installations and customizing a more refined menu and cocktail list. Budgets have become easier to allocate, making your dream wedding come to fruition in ways that you never thought were possible. When even the royals like Princess Beatrice are opting for more intimate gatherings and just going for it, you know it's here to stay.

After Dinner Interactive Experiences
While we do miss seeing dance floors full after dinner it's been refreshing to see the rising popularity of interactive guest experiences that couples are incorporating into their after-dinner celebrations. Espresso bars, live music performances, instrumentals, custom dessert lounges, cool cocktail bars, sensory experiences, live sketches and even cozy projector screen setups. Treat this as an opportunity to do something different and allow your true personality to shine while engaging in your favourite things.

Beautiful Lighting
Setting the tone for your wedding's overall ambiance and creating the perfect feeling in the atmosphere for your guests truly elevates their overall experience right from the start. Lighting has this effect to change the aura of your venue which is not so easy to do with traditional decor such as florals. Dramatic lighting including specialty chandeliers, custom lighting fixtures, wrap around twinkly light installations, outdoor fireplaces and lots of candles lining just about every inch of your venue are going to give you that cozy, warm and inviting feel that will truly make a huge impact.

Extra Personal Touches
Showing gratitude and appreciation to your guests has never been more well-received. At last, you are able to celebrate your wedding and couples more than ever are putting a heavy focus into the "little details" including personalized notes, unforgettable favours, and personalized food courses. While there is still so much gratitude in guests being able to join in on your special day couples are focusing on keeping their guests safe and comfortable while having fun doing so. Custom masks, mini sanitizer bottles, hydration stations and fun social distancing layouts have been such a neat way to embrace the new normal. Carrying sentiments through fashion is also on the rise. From custom embroidery in gowns, quotes on cathedral veils and the popular additions of family heirlooms, fashion choices will heavily be inspired by things that matter the most. This will certainly create unique and noteworthy statement pieces that you will forever cherish.

Relaxed Palettes
While 2020 was the year of colour and boldness, 2021 is showing a softer side. A more tranquil environment creating a cool, calm and relaxed atmosphere for your loved ones that they all are yearning for. Pastel shades and natural-toned palettes will be hugely incorporated in florals, linens and decor creating a safe and welcoming space for all. Flowers will be more seasonal and gentle palettes will help highlight nature and your beautiful chosen surrounding. There will be an abundance of flowers, foliage and mixed textures throughout with dried florals still trending upwards. Couples will focus on creating a beautifully balanced space with an uplifting atmosphere.

Katie Gregg is the lead planner and founder of Katie Gregg Events & Co. Her wedding planning journey began two years ago, not long after saying ‘I do’ with her husband Chris; she discovered her passion for wedding planning and wedding media. Katie believes wedding planning is more than just staging and organizing an aesthetically beautiful event. It requires taking cues from a couple’s personal styles, incorporating details from their love story, and creating a thoughtful experience for them and their guests alike.