As we move into a new year, we’re excited about some of the changing trends we see in weddings. 2020 left us with a long list of changing rules, but moving into 2021, those changes are turning into positives that couples everywhere will love. As you start to plan your 2021 wedding, be ready to see more intimate settings with micro weddings, a shift in refreshments with specialized choices, and sustainable, locally-sourced vendors and materials. Take a look at some of the up-and-coming trends we at Marco Island Weddings are eager to see as we move into the new year.
Micro Weddings
Gone are the days of oversized weddings. Today’s bride and groom are embracing the small, intimate gatherings of 25 or fewer guests. With smaller numbers, the wedding budget stretches to accommodate more personalized party favors, full dinner parties, and more. The happy couple gets to spend more quality time with each guest when there are fewer of them and the entire day becomes more personal.
Say It Now, Enjoy It Later (or Longer)
A lot of couples will be choosing to say vows privately this year, then plan a reception with more people for later when our world opens up a little more. Lavish receptions and celebrations are being postponed, but not the actual nuptials themselves. Conversely, some couples are modifying the destination wedding by creating extended stay weekends to enjoy friends and family for more than just the wedding day itself.
Something Green
One thing we learned well in 2020 was the recognition of local small businesses and sustainable, locally-sourced materials like food, drinks and flowers. Not only are weddings going to continue to look eco-conscious in 2021, they’ll also look green- actually green. Be ready to see loads of succulents, ferns, eucalyptus and cacti replacing and enhancing more traditional cut floral bouquets. 2021 is the year of going green in every way imaginable, so if you’re getting married this year, consider how you can make your wedding day as green as possible.
Photo: Gulfside Media
Signature Food & Drink
With so many rules and traditions going out the window last year, 2021 will bring more creative thinking and new ideas. The traditional wedding buffet or catered reception is being replaced by food trucks with personalized menus, mixology bars where guests can make their own drink, and signature wedding favors that honor each guest individually. Think about what kind of unique marks you and your partner will want to leave on such a special day and make it a reality this year!
Virtual Weddings
With social distancing becoming a norm, at least for a while longer, 2021 is the year of the videographer. Virtual weddings, live streaming and even drones will be a standard across the wedding landscape this year so far-away friends and relatives can fully experience the wedding from the safety of their own homes. Be ready to invite loved ones to your virtual event. You can even get creative by asking guests to participate in some small way virtually (like having a glass of champagne ready for the toast!).
Just because 2020 brought us more than a year’s worth of changes does not mean you can’t have the wedding of your dreams in 2021. Think outside the box and flex your creative muscles as you consider which traditions must remain and which ones you could do without. The wedding experts at Marco Island Weddings are here to help you create the wedding of your dreams in 2021. Tell us your plans and let us help you develop your ideas into the most amazing day ever.