Just got engaged? We’re here to help you with expert advice on planning your big day and all the trends making their mark.
Looking for an out of this world wedding? Well one company is already taking reservations to make it happen!
How many guests, location and budget are generally the first questions you need to answer.
The global pandemic played havoc on the wedding industry and while restrictions are no longer in place, people are reassessing the type of wedding they want.
Small to medium-sized relaxed weddings are the pick for most couples, according to Truffleduck business manager Deb Nash.
“We are seeing people focus more on spending time together and ensuring their guest lists really do include those they hold most dear in their lives,” Deb says.
“Increasingly, we are finding our couples tailoring their days to maximise the time they have with their guests, often opting for first-look photos and shorter formalities to ensure that really have time to enjoy the day once their guests arrive.”
More intimate weddings are popular. Photo: Nic Stephens Photography/Truffleduck
Plush founder and director Olivia Plush agrees, and says the invite list is now more considered.
The event planner says in some ways Covid has been a blessing as it brought the true meaning of why you’re getting married back to the forefront.
“People in general have a new perspective post-Covid, whether that be investing in a home, travel priorities or starting a family,” Olivia says.
“It has made couples consider what is most important to them and who they want to witness their wedding day and how much money they want to put towards it.”
Intimate weddings and elopements are popular at Geelong venue The Warehouse.
Owner Yolanda Bogan says micro weddings of up to 20 people can be a lot of fun.
“Some couples are even embracing earlier ceremonies starting at midday. One couple had a wedding breakfast ceremony followed by a cocktail style picnic party,” Yolanda says.
“Weddings are becoming all weekend affairs, pre-dinner parties the night before and brunch the day after.”
“There are also more winter weddings this year as couples are going on overseas summer honeymoons. And the mid week intimate weddings continue.”
The Warehouse hosted elopements on Valentine’s Day. Photo: Nic Stephens Photography/The Warehouse
Some of the biggest changes to weddings over the past few years include more elopements, friends playing the role of the celebrant, champagne towers, disposable film cameras on tables and pets and babies being present.
Elderberry Events say colour is also back.
“Pretty spring pastels, deeper moody tones and blends of pinks & blues are really on trend. Soft whites and green still is a strong contender and edgy blacks with nudes will stick around for another few seasons,” they say.
“Now that couples don’t have to stress about how many guests they will be allowed or if everyone will need to wear masks, they have more time and energy to tailor their day to be a special reflection of themselves,” Deb adds.
Champagne towers are popular. Photo: Milton Gan/The Warehouse
Top tips for planning your big day:
INVEST IN AN EVENT PLANNER
Deb says having someone to take care of setting up on the day and running the event makes life a lot easier. “These people are worth their weight in gold and will ensure you can fully enjoy the day without worrying about what is happening and who needs to do what when,” she says.
WANTS AND NEEDS
“Everyone starts off wanting the world but quickly realise the costs associated with a wedding quickly add up,” Olivia explains. “I always encourage couples to think about their non negotiables versus the things that you are willing to compromise on.”
DECIDE ON A BUDGET
Olivia says it is easy to blow out your budget so make sure you keep a track of where you are spending your money and consider the budget early on. “Always look at alternate options for suppliers, DIY and outsource tasks,” she says.
REINVENT THE GUEST BOOK
Swap your guest book for a postcard station where guests can write a message for the couple to read on their first anniversary. “Guest books only ever end up being a repeat of the same thing they wrote in your card. Get a family member or friend to box them up for you to open on your anniversary,” Deb suggests.
DITCH THE BONBONNIÈRE
“Clients often ask what they should do for bonbonnière and our answer is always ‘Unless you have something special that means a lot to you and your guests, then nothing’,” Deb says. “Bonbonnière for bonbonnière’s sake usually ends up looking kitschy and half will be left behind on tables. Save yourself the expense and hassle. If you have spare budget, put it into a signature cocktail during canapes.”
GUEST LIST
Who do you stay connected with regularly? In the Elderberry Events office they call this the one-year rule. If you haven’t spoken to someone in a year probably don’t invite them. This is controversial, but we think this rule should apply to extended family also. Start your guest list with close family, your bridal party and their partners, and then your closest friends. Everyone is extra after that.