There is no doubt that wedding trends in 2021 are going to be influenced by Coronavirus. Brides and Grooms waiting in anticipation for their postponed wedding date are, without question, going to adopt a ‘go big or go home’ approach for their new wedding dates.

I can see both micro weddings where only nearest and dearest are invited, as well as your extravagant weddings where everything from the wedding dress, to the wedding activities will be over the top.

The weddings I shot in 2020 that were micro weddings were some of the most intimate and special weddings I have had the pleasure to witness.

All of my couples kept telling me, they couldn’t believe how much money they saved, and they can actually put a down payment on a house.

Expect 2021 to be a year packed with weddings, thanks to all the postponed dates from 2020. We can expect to see a huge surge of creativity in weddings of 2021.

Check out some of the biggest wedding trends to embrace for 2021, that I can see happening.

Buying Local

There is no doubt that lockdown has put a strain on the economy so we are going to see more couples choose to support local wedding suppliers, bridal boutiques and small owned businesses to make their day magical.

Thankfulness

For hundreds of years, weddings have seen many different acts of gratitude, and in 2021 we are going to see weddings have an even deeper meaning. Couples are going to take an extra moment to reflect on what the past 12 months have meant and be grateful for health and safety.

I can see many couples tailor their wedding menus to support local growers and producers that many have been impacted in the 12 months of 2020.

Bringing Back Tradition

Over the past few years, couples have been moving away from more traditional weddings and adding their own twist to their day. In 2021, we are going to see a wave of weddings returning to tradition.

I can see childhood churches for ceremonies moving on to marquees at their parent’s houses for a private reception.

The flowers used at the wedding are being pressed and preserved or planted in gardens to commemorate their big day.

Experiential Entertainment

In 2021 weddings will be much more about experiences and providing entertainment for guests. Think DIY Gin bars, lives classical bands, sketch your guests and much more. This is going to be very cool.

Pastel Shades

2019 – 2020 saw a surge in greenery and blush themed weddings. In 2021 pastels are going to be the next big thing. Baby pinks, blue and yellows with a splash of coral, and stationery to match.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an increasingly popular theme seen at weddings these days. The 2020 pandemic will push couples to set sustainability as one of their top priorities in 2021.

Think tree planting, local produce, vegan menus, and also outdoor venues that require very little decorations.

Hollywood Glamour

After being stuck inside for such a long period of time, brides are going to go full Hollywood Glamour for their wedding day. Think drop earrings, statement necklaces and extravagant headpieces.

Oversized Everything

Couples will be itching to make a statement on their much-anticipated wedding day. Expect to see oversized bouquets, extra guests, and experience entertainment.

’70s Flashbacks

We started seeing a sway towards ’70s inspired themes in 2019-2020, and in 2021 we will see an increase in the ’70s popularity – macramé, crochet, rattan, block colours, wooden beading and textured linens.

Immersive Ambience

Couples will be focusing on creating unforgettable wedding experiences for thier guests. The ambience and aura of a venue are essential for this.

Think harvest tables adorned with fairy lights, textured table runners, interactive food and drink experiences, and even live classical music.

Satin Bridal Gowns

Satin is going to be the fabric of choice. We are going to see waist-defining corsets and big skirts.

New Normals

At the opposite end of the spectrum to traditional weddings we are going to see a surge in weddings that don’t fit the classic mould.

Couples are increasingly thinking outside the box and being creative with their day. Suppliers that fall outside of the wedding industry are bing used to fit the bill and bring a creative idea to life.

Yellow and Mustard Tones

Yellow has so many beautiful shades in nature and there is a shade to fit every season and wedding.

Mustard tones will assist couples in creating an immerse wedding experience as it goes well with deeper tones, like velvet and satin that can be incorporated in table runners and bridesmaid dresses.

The Making of Heirlooms

Time apart from our families has reminded us of the crucial connection between generation, which will lead to more heirlooms being worn now. We are going to see a surge in Heirloom investments and couples are going to be sparing no expense on purchasing statement items that can be worn for generations to come.

Micro Weddings

A micro wedding is a wedding with less than 20 guests and we will certainly be seeing more intimate weddings in 2021. It may be due to budget restraints or that couples simply want to scale back and spend their day with the friends and family that they can’t live without.
I kept hearing from couples and guests that the smaller weddings were so intimate, special and all the most important people were there. I also heard that they couldn’t believe how much money they saved and they can actually afford to buy a house or have money for a European Honeymoon when things open up.

Lockdown has been a period of reflection for many couples about what is truly important to them and who exactly they want by their side.

“At Last”

Perhaps a bit tongue-in-cheek, but ‘At Last’ by Etta James will be a popular choice of first dance song for couples that have had to postpone their days.

Weekday Weddings

Guests can expect to be invited to more weekday weddings. It’s partly due to budget constraints as hiring wedding suppliers during the week is cheaper than over the weekends, but can also be attributed to the fact that 2021 will be a bumper year of weddings with weekdays being the only available options left for couples.

We recommend that you start saving up for outfits, travel and hotels.

Long Veils

We have seen the ‘no-veil’ trend come and go, and in 2021 we are going to see veils get longer. They will not only be longer, but they will be embellished with jewels, lace, and bespoke embroidery such as monogrammed initials.

Ethical Dress Shopping

The pandemic as opened many people’s eyes on how staff are treated. We are bound to see a shift in how brides shop for their dresses. They are going to pick more sustainable dress makers and boutiques.

In 2021, we are going to see educated purchase being made by consumers. They will now what they stand for and who they want to support, from general daily goods all the to their wedding dress.

Lots of DIY

While we cannot claim that DIY weddings are only going to be made popular in 2021 as they have been becoming increasingly popular over the years. But 2021 will see a surge in couples learning new skills and getting crafty for their big day.

So…

What plans have you and your fiancé got for your big day in 2021? Anything crafty? Something borrowed, something yellow? Or a first dance song that will shock your guests?