10 Wedding Trends of 2021

Goodbye COVID and hello to a world of vibrant colors and long guest lists! Back in the swing of things is our motto for this year… and it feels great. Before exploring the latest wedding trends in 2021, I think it’s only right to acknowledge the resilience of those couples who had to wait another year (and sometimes even longer) to celebrate their love with friends and family. While we can’t quite yet say that weddings are “back to normal,” we do know that this year will be one of love, recovery, and reunions. 

Couples aren’t afraid to go bold and bright in their wedding style and work extra hard to accommodate the preferences of each guest. Many of the trends in 2021 we saw take flight last year in the midst of COVID, but have stuck around due to the increased efficiency and intimate guest experience they have created. Necessity is the mother of invention, and we sure did see a lot of innovation this past year! So here we go… are you ready to explore some of our favorite wedding trends of 2021? Let’s do it. 

1. Bright and technicolor! Especially in the floral arrangements. 

2. Local and sustainable vendors. Whether it be farm-to-table food or faux flowers, couples are paying extra attention to how their wedding festivities impact the environment and local communities. 

3. Quality over quantity. Instead of trying to do it all - photo booths, guest favors, piñatas, etc. - couples are spending more of the big bucks on their top priorities. 

4. Bold wedding styles and statement pieces. Whether it be pink suede lounge furniture or a daring accessory, eye-catching elements bring the party to life!

5. Fairytale lighting. Lights, lights, and more lights. Couples are creating a fantasy ambience by hanging lights from just about everywhere. 

6. Technology in weddings - live streams, e-vites, virtual consultations are connecting people from all over the world.

7. Granny-chic decor and vintage embroidery. Floral patterns are back, and paired with bright colors. Couples are paying homage to their grandparent’s old dining sets. 

8. Flowers and foliage galore. Florals are not just for centerpieces these days, couples are ordering voluptuous flowers to be placed down the aisle, behind the bar, and even draping from the ceiling. 

9. Bite sized treats. Tall 4-tiered cakes are a thing of the past. Now, couples are providing their guests with their own mini cakes and pre-portioned charcuterie board. 

10. An emphasis on the special moments. The First Look and First Dances are more important than ever. When we asked our couples what they’re most looking forward to on the big day, there is a clear trend toward the importance of being present and soaking up all the memories!

All good things must come to an end... or do they?

A conversation I have with many of our couples surrounds the question of  “what are your plans after the wedding?”  There is so much excitement around the wedding itself, it’s easy to forget about the post-wedding plans. I encourage the couple to think about their plans for after the wedding as an extension of the wedding itself - in other words, make sure you consider how you want to wrap up the night. Consider the following questions: 

• Where are we staying the nights of the wedding? 

• Will we have an after party? Who will be invited? 

• How will we get to the next location (transportation)? Do we need a designated driver? 

• What personal items will we need? 

• What car should the leftover alcohol, food, and decor be packed in? 

• Do you want the caterer to pack a picnic basket with leftover food and desserts? 

All in all, make sure your coordinator extends the timeline past the wedding itself. Have a plan for departure and consider all your options for after the wedding. All good things must come to an end, but if you’re prepared, your post-wedding activities can be just as memorable as the wedding itself.

Meeting Must-Haves

As your wedding planner, it is our responsibility to schedule, coordinate, and execute all meetings leading up to the big day. What are these meetings you may ask? We’ve got your covered - below is a list of essential wedding-related meetings that must take place prior to the wedding; with key info detailing how to prepare for each. We will be your right-hand women walking you through each step.

Kick-Off Meeting. During this meeting you’ll go over your vision, current planning progress, and finalized vendors. 

How to prepare: Create a folder to congregate vendor contracts. Brainstorm a start/end time with your partner as well as event priorities (ex: we have to have…!)

Recurring Planning Meetings. These meetings will take place periodically leading up to the wedding. During these meetings we’ll touch base on the planning progress and update “to be determined” items. The purpose of these meetings is to sort out logistics and action items to make your wedding vision become a reality. At this point you’ll start building a timeline and decor list. 

How to prepare: Come to each meeting with a list of updates and questions (if you have them). Continue to have conversations with your partner to refine and update your wedding vision. 

Walkthrough. This meeting is essential for smooth event execution on the day-of. At this meeting the caterer, venue manager, and coordinator (us!) will all be present. We also like to invite any vendors who are not familiar with the venue. During this meeting you’ll finalize catering details, venue layout, and fine-tune timeline items. This is often the last time you’ll meet with your team of wedding pros before the wedding day!

How to prepare: Envision the flow of your wedding: Where do you want guests to enter/exit the venue? Where do you want the first look to take place? Where do you want the head table to be located? Come prepared with a final guest count and any dietary restrictions. 

Rehearsal. The rehearsal is critical to ensuring your wedding party is briefed on day-of logistics. We like to start the rehearsal by introducing ourselves and getting to know your wedding party (this is often the first time we get to meet the bridesmaids and groomsmen we’ve heard so much about!) After, we’ll run through the processional and recessional. We’ll also provide your wedding party tips and tricks for goose-bump worthy photos. Family and friends who will be walking down the aisle or speaking during the ceremony should be present - this includes, of course, the officiant. 

How to prepare: Get excited! And...come with any small changes to the timeline and/or caterer updates (ex: only 10 people will be sitting at table one, instead of 9). This will be the last time you see us before your big day and we want to make sure every last detail is accounted for! 

One of the most rewarding parts of being your wedding coordinator is to watch your vision come to life - these meetings are intended to do just that! As you progress through each step in the planning process, your dream wedding will become reality and we are here to guide you through each decision.

What to Consider When Determining Your Guest Count

Small and intimate weddings are on the rise. While many 2020 couples had no other choice than to scale down their guest count, this trend may stick around long after the global pandemic. Small weddings have several attractive features - cost saving, intimacy and less stress. At the same time, a big wedding can be a blast! Determining the guest count can be a tricky step in the wedding planning process. Here are a few things to consider. 

Your budget. First and foremost, understand the limits of your budget. Break down your budget per person by considering the following: catering per person, transportation capacity, cost of favors. 

Your venue. Each venue has limitations on capacity. Ask your venue liaison how many people can the space comfortably hold. Maximum capacity is not the same as optimal capacity. At the same time, too much empty space can be a buzzkill. 

Your vibe. The more guests, the more people on the dance floor. But, big celebrations aren't for everyone. If you and your partner are more comfortable in a small intimate gathering, you may consider steering clear from the hooplah that comes  with a large guest count. 

Your type of guests. There are so many important people in your life. In addition to considering what relationships are most important to celebrate with, think about what it would entail to keep each guest happy. Kids, for example, may need a separate menu and/or fun activities to keep them engaged.

Solidifying a guest count can be a balancing act between practicality and you and your partner’s wants/desires. Ultimately, work with your partner and your planner to craft a list of people who truly matter to you. The number of guests will contribute to the overall style and design of the wedding festivities, so spend some time thinking through this decision.

Wedding Postponed? How to Break it to Your Guests.

Wedding dates change due to financial stress, family emergencies, venue concerns and now, we can add global pandemics to the list. What a joy! Coming to the realization that your wedding date must be postponed is unsettling and stressful. The best thing you can do after confirming the postponement is to begin the process of moving forward. Informing vendors and ensuring your venue is available are two essential first steps. Communication is key when it comes to coordinating the new date, and one of the hardest communications to navigate is informing your guests of the postponement. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

Start by talking with your VIPs. Family and close friends come first. Consider starting by reaching out to any family members who are pitching into the wedding budget. Call or text your wedding party to make sure the date works for their schedules. Talk logistics if needed and start to wrinkle out any scheduling conflicts as they arise. 

Inform your guests. Now that the VIPs are in the know, it’s time to spread the word. Feel free to keep communication brief and to the point. All guests need to know is (1) an unanticipated event has occurred, and (2) the new date. No need to give background on the difficult decision making process, keep those conversations between you and the VIPs. Here are a few ways to go about communicating this important information. 

1. Send an email. Emails can be one of the most efficient ways to get the information to your guests as soon as possible. The sooner they receive notice, the more likely they will be able to adjust their schedules and still make it to the wedding. 

2. Mail an official announcement. The official announcement should match the style of the original invites. Keep the card concise, informative and positive. Consider sending an email prior to convey the information to your guest as quickly as possible. 

3. Update the website. Use your wedding website as a channel for communication. Continue to update the website regularly. Start with the new date and then inform guests that additional information can be accessed on the website as the date approaches. Use the website to dodge the endless back-and-forth emails. 

Keep a positive attitude. Postponing your wedding is far from ideal. Give yourself a set amount of time to process the change. After that set amount of time be proactive and keep a positive attitude as you transition to the new date. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Lean on your personal wedding planner and vendors to support you through this process. Consider doing something special to commemorate the original wedding date. Stay positive, your wedding day will come and when it does it will be beautiful and well worth the wait. 

To see or not to see?

One of the most special and emotional moments for any bride and groom is when the soon-to-be-married couple sees each other all dressed up for the first time on their wedding day. The first look is the moment the bride and groom see each for the first time (hints the “first” look) before the wedding and take pictures together with family members and the wedding party. It's getting more and more popular to do your pictures before the ceremony, especially when the ceremony and reception are in the same place. The first look originated from traditional arranged marriages. Back in the day families were afraid that if the groom saw the bride, he would think she is not pretty enough and run away. 

Pros: 

• Cry in front of the people who are closest to you.

• Save time so that guests are not waiting for photographs to be completed during cocktail hour. 

• Allows the couple to enjoy cocktail hour.

• Photographers enjoy doing pics before the ceremony because it's less rushed.

• Helps calm those "I think I'm going to explode" nerves.

Cons: 

• The traditional route.

• Share the memory with all your guests.

• Captures the true essence of the ceremony.

• Builds anticipation.

Cake? Candy? Popcorn?

You know what they say, “one cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” Many brides prefer the traditional wedding cake, although if you are the kind of bride that wants to shake things up, a cake doesn't always cut it. Here are a few ideas for alternative or complementary desserts for the big day.

Cupcakes are a great way to satisfy your guests sweet tooth. The individually packaged cakes are easy to serve as well as pleasing to the eye. Each one contains its own personal touch and design. An array of cupcakes is similar to a cake but does not require the tedious cutting and serving. Some brides incorporate a smaller cake on top of the arrangement of cupcakes to still uphold the cake cutting tradition.

Getting married in the hot summer sun? An ice cream bar may be the perfect chioce for your wedding. Let your guest personally design their own cone by providing a variety of delicious candy and toppings.

Popcorn although isn't the sweetest of treats but it sure is yummy. Popcorn buckets with seasoning are good for party favors and snacks for the guest. Weather it is eaten for dessert, throughout the night, or when the guest return home, popcorn is a simple pleasure (especially when there's seasoning and butter involved!)

If you decided to have a traditional cake a good complimentary dessert is hot chocolate. Hot chocolate is an easy way to add something special to dessert time. Set up a table with hot chocolate and cups, make sure to add some bowls with different toppings (marshmallows, candy cane, white chocolate sprinkles.) 

A candy bar is pleasing to the eye... and also to the kids. It can be set out throughout the entire wedding for those guest that have a sweet tooth. Candy can serve as a party favor as well as a way to keep the kids occupied while the festivities are happening.

Event Coordinator vs Wedding Planner

A question asked frequently by many brides is “what is the difference between an event coordinator and a wedding planner?” Although both parties may be involved in the wedding planning process, their responsibilities and concerns vary. Some brides may decide to have both at their weddings but most gravitate to one. While the event coordinator works for the needs of the venue, the wedding planner works for the needs of the bride. 

Some of the event coordinator's responsibilities include: showcasing the venue, arranging the food and beverages to run smoothly and on time, and ensuring the take down is efficient. Most event coordinators leave after the meal is served. Another thing to keep in mind is that although you may have been working with one event coordinator before the wedding, there might be a different individual on the day-of. 

Wedding planners are present for every decision and detail before and on the wedding day. Wedding planners are hired early on in the planning process. The responsibilities of the wedding planner before the big day include: arranging the venue, contracts, itinerary and timeline, rehearsal, and whatever the bride desires. On the day of, their job includes: aiding the preparation, ceremony, grand entrance, dancing, speeches, and more. Wedding planners are also constantly on quality control. Typically wedding planners take over the reins a month or so out to allow the bride to destress and enjoy the ride. Wedding planners give expert advice while perfecting the wedding experience.

Plans for Place Cards?

Every bride wants that extra touch to make her wedding perfect. One great way to accomplish this is by designing creative, dual purpose place cards. Here are a few ideas to help you out!

Simply create nicely designed cards, attach the card to a toothpick, and then use a soft sweet (such as a Ferrero Rocher) as a stand for the place card. You will have creative way to seat your guests while the sweet conveniently works as a party favor. What better way to get your guests excited about where they are sitting than to present them with a little present when they sit down at their table. 

Another creative way to make place cards is by using a cork! This may sound crazy but it's really as simple as that. Save up some corks whenever drinking wine, attach the place cards to a toothpick and stick it in the cork screw. Voila! Now you have a trendy (and easy) way to create place cards! 

One last unique idea that is especially good for those with weddings during summer: a paper fan place card! Order a bunch of inexpensive paper fans and write the names of your guests with a sharpie or glitter glue, then when setting up, just open the fan and place it on the designated seat. This is a great way for people to find their seat, as well as cool down after dancing and celebrating.

Bridal Shower

Any one popped the question lately? If so, it is time to celebrate! One of the best things about getting engaged is sharing the joy with your friends and family; and the best way to celebrate is with a bridal shower. 

The bridal shower can be hosted by the happy bride herself, the mother of the bride, or friends if they volunteer to do so. There are so many different options to personalize the party however you want. Below are helpful ideas to plan the perfect bridal shower.

Favors:
Sugar cookies with bridal designs
Homemade bath bombs
Nail polish
Sugar scrubs
Lip balm 
Customized M and M’s
Mason jar cookie mixes

Games and Activities:
What's in your purse?
How well do you know the bride?
Bridal bingo
Bridal shower scattergories
He says she says

Themes:
Pretty in Pink 
Tea Party
Brunch
Beauty Spa
A Day in the Life of a Chef
Holiday Party (depending on which holiday is approaching)

Food:
Sliders
Deviled eggs
Chicken skewers
Cheese fondue
Yogurt Parfait
Figure sandwiches
Cupcakes 
Caramel apples
Mini quiches

Contact us for more ideas!

Four Wedding MUST Haves

1. A guest book. Not only will you be able to savor the memories looking through it years later but it is also gives something for your guest to do during the reception.

2. A good playlist. Dull music can result in guests leaving early, make sure you and your guest have good music to get up and dance to. Spend a little extra time going over the songs you want the DJ to play throughout the night. Trust me. It’s worth it.

3. A beauty Bag. Just as your starting to feel the sweat from all the dancing or after you’ve eaten dinner and you can feel the garlic taste in your mouth, it’s time to pull out the beauty bag! Consider packing: breath mints, blotting wipes, bobby pins, hair spray, tissues, lipstick.

4. FAMILY, FRIENDS and a GOOD ATTITUDE. Although planning a wedding can be stressful make sure when the day comes you soak it all up and have an amazing time full of laughter and love. 

Trending Pastels

Pinks, creams, whites yellows, you name it. Pastels are a year round favorite for many brides. Talk about a good way to express your love for all the colors while still maintaining a the subtle tone on your big day. Pastels fits the image of your wedding in the minds of all your guest while still giving you your picture perfect day the colors it needs. Not to mention whatever your theme is, pastels are good bystanders that will blend in without taking away from the glitter, lights and any other detail. 

The Ultimate Guest Book

Guest books are a great way to capture the memories of your wedding; to remember all the family and friends who have joined you on such an extraordinary and memorable dayHere are a few simple ideas to create a guest book that captures your special day. 

The first one I like to call “The Letter Book.” First decorate a simple bound white journal. Inside glue mini envelopes to each page. Then cut out little rectangular cards that will fit inside the envelopes. The guest will write a message on the card and place it in an envelope and write their name on the cover. There you have it! 

The next idea is great to capture the moment...literally. Get a polaroid, a sharpie, an empty picture frame (without the glass), ribbon, and clothespins. After the glass has been removed from the frame glue the ribbon to both sides of the frame. At the wedding have a polaroid camera available to take silly photos, the guest can then write a message on the bottom of the picture and pin it to the ribbon with a cloth pins. This guest book is perfect for creating a memento that you can take home a hang up to savor the moment!

Another unique idea is a puzzle. This symbolic guest book is very simple. Buy a plain wood puzzle and a sharpie. At your wedding write a sign that guides your guest, something like “welcome please sign a piece to our puzzle,” then have them place it in a jar. Years from the wedding you can do the puzzle and remember all the great things people had to say!