Emerging Wedding Trends of 2021
2020 was a tough year for many reasons. That said, the sun is once again emerging, and summer event calendars are beginning to fill with great things to do.
Given all the un-canceling of many gatherings that were postponed out of necessity, it only stands to reason that 2021 is going to be a huge year for get-togethers. Weddings especially are poised to come roaring back in a big way, with two years’ worth of ceremonies trying to find available time and space over the course of one season.
So when it comes to creating a wedding that stands out, what’s a couple to do? Thankfully, Humphreys has been keeping our finger on the pulse of emerging wedding trends for 2021. Here are some great ways to make your big day even more special!
Micro Weddings
There are no small couples, only cozy weddings. Big, blowout ceremonies and receptions had begun falling a bit out of favor even before COVID-19 made large gatherings ill-advised. By keeping your guest list just to immediate family and a very close circle of friends, you’ll ensure a memorable event for you and your partner, as well as your guests. Think increased safety, no unfamiliar faces, and a very simple seating chart, and you’re getting the idea. A smaller guest list and venue also means a smaller bill when all is said and done.
Tiny Dining
Many wedding planners are seeing a lot of popularity in small, individualized portions of appetizers and sweets. Since passed hors d’oeuvres could be a turn-off for some in a world still recovering from the pandemic, some couples are opting to offer small, bite-sized treats like petits fours, cake pops, canapés, and single-serve cakes served parfait-style. Is there any rule saying you can’t serve popcorn chicken or small charcuterie boards? No, there isn’t!
Fresh-Air Activities
A traditional wedding reception would typically feature dinner, music, dancing, and a cocktail hour. But once you raise the roof, you raise the bar. Why not organize an alfresco beverage service, a fun scavenger hunt, or even a bonfire complete with toasted marshmallows, hot dogs and s’mores? Once you start thinking outside the box, you’ll be able to offer your guests a memorable experience that still encourages safety, cleanliness, and space.
Weekday Weddings
We know what you’re thinking: “Getting married on a WEDNESDAY?” But hear us out. Given what’s no doubt going to be VERY restricted availability of most wedding venues this year, available weekend dates have already begun to fill up. So take the pressure off and book a weeknight. You and your partner can then plan a very low-key, low-stress event that your guests can attend after work. Your memories will still be of a day filled with love, regardless of the day.
Reimagined Entertainment
With a relaxed emphasis on dancing (thanks to social distancing), many couples are opting for a wider variety of entertainment types than the traditional DJ setup. Jazz trios, string quartets, and other live band arrangements have skyrocketed in popularity at weddings as of late. Your guests will enjoy the break in tradition, and you and your partner can fine-tune exactly the kind of style you want. Plus, many musicians are eager to get out and play again after seeing their gig schedules dry up in 2020. It’s really a win/win/win for everyone.
“Sequel” Weddings
Many couples elected not to cancel their wedding ceremonies in 2020, but simply to scale them way back. But if you and your partner weren’t satisfied with the small-scale formality or courthouse procedure you had to settle for, you can always schedule a redux! Now that there’s a bit more flexibility in the world at large, you can book the party you wanted to have to begin with. Set up a vow renewal for your one-year anniversary and say “I STILL do” with friends and family present this time.
Say “I Do” With a View at Humphreys
The dedicated wedding team at Humphreys Half Moon Inn has years of experience making weddings special. No matter what style of wedding you’re envisioning, our planners are ready and able to make it a reality. If you’re planning to tie the knot in 2021, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll work with you every step of the way to see to it that your big day is everything you dreamed it could be.
