From the pandemic to economic uncertainty to changing social norms, weddings are looking a lot different than they have in the past.
The reality of our ever-changing world has caused many couples to question whether they really need to go big on their big day. Despite a survey by Brides which found that 82% of couples reported wanting to marry more after the pandemic, large-scale and extravagant weddings seem to be a thing of the past. Many couples are looking to smaller ceremonies with pared-down guest lists to celebrate their nuptials.
What Weddings Look Like Now
A number of couples have decided to elope or opt for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. Others choose to do both—a personalized mini wedding with close friends and family, with a larger party planned for further down the line.
For couples who going through with their nuptials, here were some of the major recent trends that have emerged:
- Couple-only elopements
- Local backyard ceremonies
- No wedding party receiving lines
- Mini individual desserts replacing shared wedding cake
Wedding Trends That Are Sticking Around
While no one has been unable to escape the major changes forced by uncertain times, some have found the silver lining in their unconventional ceremonies. For those that celebrated, planned, or observed weddings during that time, some new wedding trends are becoming popular options.
Here are some of the wedding trends that remain:
Smaller guest lists
One of the biggest questions every couple asks is "How many people do I invite to my wedding?" The guest list is always a major stressor, but one thing that has become popularized is a reduced number of invites. The Brides survey found that 47% of people report that they are now planning a smaller guest list for their wedding.
Big parties with a huge invite list can be a lot of fun, but also a lot of stress. Many who attended scaled-down weddings in the middle of the pandemic found they liked the idea of a cozier ceremony. This trend shows that couples now would rather spend more per guest rather than spreading their budget thinly over a large crowd.
Removing old-school rituals
Couples are also cutting out some of the more expected rituals of a wedding in the US. With a trend towards having a more personalized wedding, couples are focusing more on what traditions have meaning to their relationship.
Rituals like a garter and bouquet tossing, or a traditional cake cutting, are on their way out. Today’s couples are more likely to ditch old-school rituals in favor of a celebration that is more unique to them. That means that you’re likely to see fewer of some outdated traditions moving forward.
Protecting your investments
When it comes to uncertainty, the best way to plan for the unexpected is by getting insurance on your wedding costs.
There are many parts of a wedding to insure. Travel insurance can be a lifesaver when you have flights booked for yourselves or guests to a destination. Many couples choose to insure wedding dresses and suits.
For engagement and wedding rings, as well as bridesmaid and wedding party jewelry, look into a Mulberry protection plan. Getting coverage on your bling is a smart investment to save money, and reduce stress, leading up to the big day. A jewelry warranty can cover a variety of damage, as well as loss and theft.
Planning Your Wedding
Wedding trends come and go, but love is always in style. No matter what you decide to do for your wedding this year or beyond, make sure it’s the right fit for you as a couple.
If you want to protect your wedding jewelry before the big day, Mulberry offers jewelry protection plans through retailers. If you’re filing a claim on your jewelry, learn what to do to get your warranty claim approved. We’re here to make your process fast and easy so that you can focus on your wedding.
