In the world of wedding planning, we see trends change every season. Looking back at funky 70s decor, over-the-top 80s bridal gowns, or early 2000s DIY Wedding Pinterest boards, we know that each era will bring its own wedding vibe.
While not all wedding trends last as long as the wedding vows, here’s a look at some recent ideas for ceremonies and receptions that we hope stand the test of time.
Complementary Color Schemes
A good color scheme ties the whole wedding together, and we love seeing couples opt for palettes of varying shades of color or complementary colors that relax the requirements of what fits into their theme.
Classic neutrals continue to be popular, with variations that create beautiful backdrops and depth in decor.
Bridesmaids are often choosing different but complementary dress colors and styles, and wedding flowers and decor are following suit.
Wedding Weekends
Planning an entire weekend of wedding celebrations is becoming a popular choice among couples, who want to ensure they soak up every moment.
Spreading wedding festivities out over a weekend can reduce the stress of wedding planning, said Retreat 21’s Director of Weddings, Michaela Neu Barteldt.
“Couples feel more relaxed when they know they don’t have to cram every experience into just four hours,” said Michaela.
Michaela noted that couples enjoy extended time with loved ones when they plan a weekend retreat, particularly if they stay onsite in a lodging option. Retreat 21 offers onsite cabins that can give the wedding party and family a chance to keep the fun going before and after the wedding! Bonus: pets are permitted in The Waterfront Cabin, making it easy for your furry friend to participate in the ceremony or for pictures, then rest easily.
Couples can also choose to have more than one event onsite at Retreat 21 to create a weekend wedding experience in one location. The Taphouse at Retreat 21 is available May-October for rehearsal dinners, and is also an excellent choice for a post-wedding brunch on Sundays. (Availability varies so contact your event rep!)
Planning a wedding weekend is also an excellent choice to include guests who might not be available for the wedding ceremony, but could join for a welcome party or a post-wedding brunch!
Touches of Whimsy
We take our weddings seriously, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for fun!
“We love seeing fun, unexpected touches from our couples when planning,” said Michaela. “We’ve had some non-traditional choices of a flower man with a fanny pack full of petals walking down the aisle, or grandmas doubling as “flower girls” during the processional. These moments bring big smiles and make for memorable moments,” she said.
Michaela has also recently seen trends that include:
- Games for guests – either crossword puzzles during the reception to get to know the couple, or decks of cards for guests to jot down advice for the couple.
- Choreographed first dances continue to grow in popularity, whether it’s recreating a trending Tiktok dance or setting the tone for the party!
- Creative desserts in place of, or in addition to cake, like ice cream trucks or custom flavors of donuts.
Trends We See Fizzling Out
If you’re looking to include some of the unexpected in your wedding, it might be time to change out marquee letters and neon signs for other signage options.
While neon and marquee signs have had gorgeous moments in the spotlight behind head tables, during the ceremony or for photo stations, these sign choices are so on-trend that they’ve become the norm.
Try mixing things up with creative florals, lights or other materials for name signage.
“At the end of the day, we tell every couple to do what makes them happy,” said Michaela. “So regardless of what’s on trend, your wedding just needs to be uniquely you.”
Ready to picture your wedding vision at Retreat 21? Contact us to schedule a tour!