Whether you’re planning your wedding for 2021 or re-scheduling from this year, we’re sharing with you our predictions for the biggest trends for 2021 weddings.
There is no doubt that the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic is going to have an impact on wedding trends and how we celebrate with our loved ones. 2021 is anticipated to be a boom year in the number of weddings taking place, comprising of weddings that were postponed, weddings already planned, and weddings born out of realising what’s important during the pandemic.
1. Etsy
As couples have more time to browse and home-made designers have more time to get crafty and design, they will turn to more boutique and handmade crafters for their décor, accessories and stationery. The added bonus of this is that it will help those small businesses, as well as offering wonderful new products that are handmade and customised to the couple that they'll love for years to come. We'll see weddings become more personalised and meaningful.
2. Etta James
The classic song by Etta James – At Last, is likely to become a highly popular choice for first dances for those couples who had to postpone their weddings. Fitting in with that traditional trend we predict we will see this classic song has the perfect lyrics for couples celebrating their special day…. At last!
3. Meaningful acts of Gratitude
Coming out the other side of this global pandemic in 2021, couples and guests will be seeking more meaningful experiences. Having been through those and extended periods of separation, being together again for a wedding will mean much more than previously.
We will see acts of thanks incorporated into the day in the way of much more personal keepsakes; this could be short messages to each guest to convey how wonderful and special it is to have them there, or more sentimental and inclusive speeches.
4. Moments of remembrance
In 2021 we are going to see an increase in moments and symbols to reflect and remember those who couldn’t be here with us on the day. Some of you may already have incorporated a memory candle or old wedding photos in your day as a way of highlighting the importance of those who couldn’t be there and we predict we will see a rise in these in 2021.
5. Tradition and Home Comforts 2021 is going to see more couple planning their weddings based on sentimental values rather that searching for the extravagant next big thing. Tradition will become popular again, as well as keeping the wedding theme close to home as people hone in on what really matters to them.
6. Sustainability
We've become acutely aware of our impact on the environment during Covid-19, with The Guardian reporting ‘falls in carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide of as much as 40%'. We expect sustainability to be a key focus for weddings planned in 2021, as people are more aware of their impact, seeing first-hand how we humans have impacted the environment. Couples will be adapting their plans to include more sustainable suppliers, caterers and venues and this will force the industry to adapt in the long-term.
Looking for tips to make your big day more sustainable? Check out our guide!
7. Pastel colours
After the rollercoaster that we call 2020, couple are going to be seeking calm and relaxing colours for the wedding rather than striking statement colours. Pastels are already a popular choice for weddings, but we will see the frequency of that increase as couples will be seeking calming, minimalist wedding vibes. These colours will be reflected through stationary, florals, and the bridal party's attire.
8. Heirlooms
Family heirlooms are often already passed down in families, however we expect to see more people incorporating them into their wedding as couples seek more meaningful experiences. Having spent time apart from families, the connection that heirlooms can provide on these special days will become ever more important.
9. Smaller Weddings
2020 has given us the opportunity to reflect on what’s truly important. Crucially, a smaller wedding trend won’t be down to budget, although this may affect some following this period of uncertainty. People will choose to utilise their budgets on those closest to them, providing more immersive and meaningful experiences that will be remembered for years to come.
Large, showy, competitive style weddings will become less frequent and people will focus on what’s really important to them as they seek more meaningful experiences with their family and friends.
10. Weekday weddings
We're predicting a rise in weekday weddings in 2021 as postponed weddings will be looking to re-book creating a higher demand for wedding dates in 2021. With only so many weekend dates in a year and most venues only holding 1 wedding a day, there will be higher amounts of couples trying to snap up those prime weekend dates - if they haven't already been booked.
In 2021 we will see an increased number of weddings choosing a Thursday or Friday as people will be reluctant to reschedule to 2022 or 2023. Budget may also become and factor for couples who have found themselves in unfavourable financial situations as a result of the pandemic. Venues and suppliers tend to be cheaper on less popular dates, such as weekdays which may mean couples can get more for their money.
With 2021 set to be one of the biggest years in history for weddings and top trends are going to be strong and very prominent in the weddings that take place. Weddings will be the light at the end of the tunnel for many of you and be celebrated in an entirely different way with a new meaning.
