May to October is traditionally wedding season in the UK, with couples confessing their love for one another and uttering those two little words: ‘I do’.
Of course everyone’s nuptials are different, ranging from lavish multi-day weddings in the Bahamas to far more economical and intimate occasions at a local registry office. But without fail, each new wedding season comes with its own trends, giving brides a theme to aim for when planning their nuptials.
So, if you’re seeking some inspiration for your very own big day, or if you’re simply dreaming about a date in the distant future, here’s what’s trending for 2023…
1. Barbie wedding
As Mattel’s ‘plastic fantastic’ doll prepares to make her big blockbuster debut starring Margot Robbie, couples are embracing Barbiecore by thinking pink. Pinterest searches for a Barbie wedding theme have increased 140% year on year and pink floral arrangements, neon signs and themed tableware are all the rage as couples channel their inner Barbie and Ken.
2. Unique bouquets
This wedding season, couples are redefining the floral wedding bouquet and are looking for options that go beyond the traditional bunch of flowers. From beautiful pearl and peony posies to dramatic seashell and butterfly-themed bouquets – roses and tulips aren’t the only way to add romance to the occasion. This is certainly the day to let your imagination run a little wild.
3. Personalisation
More couples are trying to make their nuptials as personal as possible. “On one end of the spectrum you have people choosing a unique theme that reflects them as a couple, like Star Wars or Harry Potter,” says Kate Beavis from Magpie Wedding and The Eco Wedding Show. “On the other hand there’s smaller touches like putting your initials or wedding logo on the cake.”
4. Maximalism
After many couples cancelled or postponed their wedding plans in the pandemic, it caused some to reconsider what they want from their day. “People are either holding micro weddings or they’re embracing maximalism,” says Kate. “We’re talking 1980s and disco vibes – think big dresses, big cakes and big floral arches. Some couples are even having their wedding in really quirky venues and then getting legally married a year later.”
5. Sustainability
With climate change at the top of the political agenda, brides and grooms are looking for ways to make their big day eco-friendly. “There’s a movement towards more sustainable weddings, whether that’s renting out dresses, buying things second-hand or using paperless invitations,” says Kate. Take inspiration from Pinterest by opting for eco-friendly decor or leaf confetti, which have seen searches increase by 230% and 105% respectively.
6. Modern western wedding
Whether you’re a country bumpkin or a city dweller, throwing a modern western-themed wedding has never been more stylish, with searches rocketing by 435%. Either add some small boho touches by decorating the venue with dried flowers, cacti and neutral colours or embrace the full rustic charm by opting for antler bouquets, lots of fairy lights and wooden benches.
7. Emerald and rust
Choosing a colour palette for a wedding is no easy task given it ties together everything from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the cake. While choices often depend on the location, season and a couple’s own preferences, searches for ‘emerald green and rust wedding’ on Pinterest have increased 1050%.
Statistics from the Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report. All percentages are year on year.
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