Weddings have undergone a significant shift in recent years, driven by pandemic restrictions and budget considerations, prompting couples to explore new and innovative ways to tie the knot.
Here Vows & Views Wedding Fairs, by My Special Event we explore some of the latest trends for 2024:
Outdoor Weddings and Alternative Venues:
Traditional church weddings are being replaced by outdoor ceremonies or unconventional indoor venues. This change in direction is due to evolving tastes and preferences, venues offering endless possibilities for unique settings adorned with fresh flowers and elegant drapery. However, unpredictable weather remains a factor to consider when opting for non-traditional venues and it is something every couple will ultimately have a discussion about if considering a “non-traditional” option.
Fashion Forward:
Couples who are getting married are embracing alternative attire options, moving beyond traditional white or ivory dresses and suits. Coloured gowns, bridal separates, and stylish trouser suits are gaining popularity. This adaptation in style allows couples to express their individuality and make a statement on their special day.
Creative Dining Experiences:
Moving away from traditional sit-down meals towards more interactive dining experiences is becoming more popular in the Wedding Industry. Sharing menus, grazing tables, and dessert bars offer guests a diverse culinary journey, while bespoke cocktails and personalised wedding shots add a unique touch to the celebration. At Vows & Views Wedding Fairs we aim to bring a mixture of suppliers offering alternatives for your “wedding feast” or “celebratory meal”.
Modern Photography and Videography:
Couples are opting for more relaxed and natural photography styles, replacing traditional posed shots for candid moments captured by drone videography and real-time social media uploads. This shift reflects a desire for authentic and immersive wedding documentation. Upon speaking to several photographers, they are aiming for a more “laid back” approach to photographing couples now which seems to work better for some.
Personalised Entertainment:
From live bands and soloists to photo booths and illustrators, entertainment options are endless nowadays, generally aimed to reflect the happy couple’s personalities and preferences. Custom playlists, themed performances, and interactive activities ensure a memorable experience for guests of all ages.
Innovative Invitations:
Sustainable materials, handcrafted designs, and digital platforms like wedding websites are redefining how couples invite guests to their special day. From the Wedding Ceremony and reception details, other important information like accommodations, travel requirements, gift lists and more can be included and then the link is sent to the guests for them to access. Personalised stationery and online RSVP systems streamline communication and enhance the overall guest experience.
Thoughtful Thank You’s
Traditional wedding favours are being replaced with personalised gifts or charitable donations, offering guests a meaningful token of appreciation. Some couples are opting for wedding gift lists, allowing guests to choose their thank-you gifts based on personal preference.
Ultimately, wedding trends are shaped by each couple’s unique vision, budget, and preferences. While gathering inspiration from wedding fairs and suppliers is valuable, the final decisions should reflect what feels right for the couple.
After all, it’s their day to celebrate their love in a way that’s meaningful to them.
At Vows & Views Wedding Fairs we aim to bring the best suppliers in the West and East Sussex area to prospective couples and allow them to bring all their ideas together to make their day the magical one they dreamed of.
If you would like to plan your special day then get in touch with My Special Event and take a look at their Weddings Section.
