The familiar wedding of days gone by (ah those halcyon days!) with an average of 100 guests and ample opportunities for drunken dancing to Mr Brightside whilst hugging all your friends has, at least temporarily, changed following the year that was 2020. Lockdowns and restrictions initially forced couples to re-evaluate what they wanted for their big day. We were lucky enough to host a handful of micro weddings for couples who didn’t want to wait so married within the restrictions, often with absent friends and family in attendance via Zoom.
Early 2021 has seen a total lockdown, with winter weddings rearranged, some for the 3rd or 4th time and spring/summer couples waiting hopefully to see whether theirs might go ahead. Here’s what we think weddings will look like for 2021, as and when they’re allowed to happen!
Micro Weddings Are Here to Stay
Whilst micro weddings were the only option in the latter part of 2020, couples have quickly seen the benefits of a smaller guest list, from keeping the cost down to being able to splurge on luxuries that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford. We’ve seen a surge in bookings for micro weddings into late 2021/2022.
Another popular option for couples is ‘Marry Now, Party Later’ with many opting for a micro ceremony and a large celebration at a later date when they can really let their hair down with all their loved ones.
Midweek Weddings & Elopements
With many venues having moved most of their 2020 bookings into 2021, couples wishing to marry sooner rather than later may need to consider a midweek date. In our experience, midweek weddings are just as special as weekend weddings, and usually quite a bit cheaper too!
There is much buzz about elopements in the wedding industry, which are set to become a big trend as couples decide to ditch the guest list and just do it. And why not?!
Keeping it Local & Sustainable
A trend that’s been gaining in popularity for a few years, sustainability is becoming increasingly important for couples as they plan their weddings, with emphasis on using local suppliers. From sourcing locally grown wildflowers to small batch beer from local micro-breweries, the ‘support small business’ focus of 2020 will gather momentum. Couples are increasingly shunning big brands for smaller, local suppliers whose brand ethos align with their values.
This is also true for catering – we predict an increase in couples opting for locally sourced British menus, with a focus on seasonality and provenance.
Taking it Outdoors
With many of the Covid-19 restrictions dictating that most social interaction should take place outdoors, more couples will opt for outside ceremonies and receptions, British weather permitting of course! Garden weddings will become more popular, with many couples opting for marquees or tipis. For marquees of any size we recommend www.chelseahire.co.uk
At The Granary, we have a gorgeous rustic gazebo on our lawn which is licenced for civil ceremonies, with the option of taking it inside if the weather isn’t cooperating. You can see our wedding packages here.
Lights for Days
With couples opting for smaller events, there is increased focus on ambience and creating that intimate vibe. Fairy lights, candles and lanterns have always been popular but couples are now opting for hanging festoons, LED wording and neon tube lights with wedding appropriate phrases. There is also a real trend for incorporating industrial lighting into dramatic overhead floral displays. This really has the wow factor and is ideal for smaller weddings.
Understated Florals
We’re seeing lots of texture being used in weddings flowers, with a move away from lots of greenery to tonal displays in earthy tones and pastels, with dried foliage and grasses including pampas grass and wheat sheaves.
Additionally, bright colour palettes are also set to become big news and green and white displays, particularly hanging foliage, will continue to be popular, along with wild flowers, for which we recommend www.fieldgateflowers.co.uk