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Join us as some of the county’s wedding aficionados discuss their top 2023 trend predictions

RELAXED, INFORMAL VIBES

Jacquie Keeley from Fab Food For You (https://fabfoodforyou.co.uk) says: “I can see 2023 couples looking for venues with plenty of characterful features and outdoor space, especially since the change in the law means they can marry anywhere within the grounds of a licensed venue.

“Many will look for places offering the added bonus of accommodation, allowing for a full weekend of celebrations. In a similar vein, locations with plenty of on-site interest to keep guests and couples alike entertained during their stay such as a pool, jacuzzi, spa, and/or tennis courts will be the go tos.

“Since Covid, many families haven’t been able to get together fully for what seems like an age and from my experience of working with couples recently, they’re feeling the need for more freedom without too much structure. Consequently, big-day dining styles will be leaning more away from the traditional sit-down meal. So, informal sharing platters placed at the centre of the table offering a real sense of community, are my top tip for 2023 wedding catering.

“The rustic vibe will also continue to shine, lending itself very well to the desire for a more chilled atmosphere, so semi-naked wedding cakes decked in homegrown edible flowers, homemade pork pie stacks, and large cheese stacks will be huge.”

Thanks For The Memories

Charlotte from C&C Imagery (www.candcimagery.co.uk) says:

“Wedding photography has always been a key part of couples’ big days and given the huge range of photographers to choose from with a wide variety of styles, picking the perfect match can be overwhelming. Last year, weddings made their comeback and 2023 is set to build on this. Trends in wedding photography are forever evolving, stemming away from the traditional and formal shots of yesteryear, instead benefitting from a more relaxed approach.

“The candid, documentary style, including the much-loved confetti shot and family group images is here to stay. However, a lot of our couples are now opting for something different. Smoke flares lead to some fantastic imagery and are a wonderful way to bring a pop of colour to proceedings. Sparkler send-offs were a popular choice for 2022 and 2023 will be no different.

“For us, we see 2023 being the year of bridal portraits. They’re not for everyone, but when done correctly these are a beautiful reminder of how you looked and felt on your big day. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store!”

THE ENGLISH ARE COMING!

William Coren, managing director at House Coren (www.housecoren.co.uk) says: “I think we’ll see a huge rise in the demand for English sparkling wines for weddings in 2023 as awareness of it continues to increase. A key growth area is in winning over the celebration category, which has historically been dominated by Champagne, but we’re now seeing a shift toward quality English sparkling wines here in the UK. The quality is as good as, if not better than, its French cousin and after various lockdown restrictions along with the cost of living squeeze we’ve seen a desire from customers to shop British.

“The emergence of the Charmat wine category amongst English wines will be an area to watch. The different method of production that highlights the fruit characteristics of the wine, has proven to be a winning formula, alongside its more accessible pricing should mean a winning combination for couples who want top quality wine with crowd-pleasing qualities that won’t break the bank. Boco by House Coren is one of the best examples of this style.

“Finally, as more and more vineyards in the UK open their doors as wedding venues, it only makes sense for couples to toast their nuptials with the venue’s wine as well.”

YOUR WEDDING, YOUR WAY

Brighton-based Mark Inscoe, Civil Celebrant Sussex (https://civilcelebrantsussex.com), says: “With the restrictions of the last few years hopefully consigned to the past, couples will be wanting to celebrate their most special of days with all of their family and friends.

“I expect to see an increase in celebrant-led ceremonies as couples are becoming more aware of this option. By teaming with an independent celebrant, you can work together to create a unique and personalised ceremony meaning your wedding celebration puts you at the heart of the day.

Abstract Thinking

Emily Fitter from Emily’s Mixing Bowl (www.emilysmixingbowl.co.uk) says: “I expect to see more abstract cakes, sometimes with fewer flowers and more texture, with plenty of movement. Here, the rice paper sails mimic the flowing ethereal feeling of a wedding dress. Edible, pressed flower cakes too are going to be big this year, especially for the more relaxed rustic couples.

“Finally, vintage/retro style Lambeth cakes will be making a comeback for couples who want to have fun with their cake; not just in white, but in pastel shades too – how kitch!”

“There will also be more of a shift towards ecoweddings as couples become much more aware of the impact of their day on the environment. This will lead to an increased demand for sustainable and biodegradable products, as well as clothing and accessories hire.

“Outdoor weddings will also remain popular as couples look to put a unique stamp on their day and keep it true to themselves. I’m going to be the celebrant for a renewal of vows this March and as part of the ceremony Kay and Mark have asked me to sing Elvis Presley’s She Wears My Ring, a significant song played at their wedding 30 years ago. After all, there should be no such thing as a standard wedding ceremony. My word for 2023 is: unique.”

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