Post Pandemic wedding themes

Post-pandemic wedding trends

Last year, the marriage rate fell by 69% in the UK, with approximately 73,600 weddings and same-sex civil partnership ceremonies postponed to 2021/2022. Those who were lucky enough to wed had to limit the number of guests, host virtual ceremonies, socially distance, and scrap the reception buffet. But as the economy slowly tries to rebuild, we reveal several wedding trends that will emerge after the pandemic.

Go Digital The industry implemented a digital model during lockdown, and the demand from couples continues to grow. With the likes of businesses adjusting to the ‘new normal’ offering virtual bridal appointments and online venue tours, planning a wedding has been made easier for future brides and grooms. Livestreaming a wedding was once reserved for celebrities and royalty, but thanks to clever technology platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Skype, loved ones are able to attend virtually on the big day.

Make your wedding Eco Friendly The growing trend towards supporting local businesses and minimising environmental impact will continue to influence couples’ planning decisions. Reports suggest that just one wedding alone can produce as much as 20kg of plastic waste – from cups, gift bags and fake confetti. Shifting to more sustainable décor such as invitations made from recycled paper, vegan menus, and composting any leftovers will help to reduce landfill waste and better impact the environment.

Sober-curious ceremonies Champagne, an open bar, alcohol has always been seen as essential for the big day, but more and more couples are putting alcohol-free alternatives on their wedding menus. Those choosing to avoid or reduce their alcohol intake for personal or wellness reasons will add another trend to future weddings. Offering a quality soft drink menu combined with mocktails make your sober guest feel as welcome as the ‘party people’

Creative catering A wedding cake doesn’t need to be four feet tall and traditionally flavoured – more and more couples are personalising their cake as smaller guestlists have led to innovation. Planners are seeing unique cupcakes designs and spectacular grazing boards flood their Pinterest and Instagram feeds.

Hygiene is also at the forefront of everyone’s minds, so serving individual portions rids the worry of a cramped buffet and shared cutlery. According to research, couples needlessly throw out a tenth of all their wedding food – this is whopping £488 of food waste at the average sized wedding.

Businesses, brands, and suppliers are continue adapting to consumer demands – from the venue to the vows – to ensure they offer the best possible experience for future newlyweds. n