3 Innovative approaches to the Wedding Celebration
3 Innovative approaches to the Wedding Celebration
By Gina Vorster
Couples are approaching the celebration of their nuptials in a whole new way. Traditional methods are being replaced as brides strive to showcase their own individual ideas for their special day. Let’s explore how the wedding day is undergoing a transformation:
The divide between Ceremony and Reception
There is a growing trend among brides to separate their wedding ceremony and reception. Many brides are now choosing to have an intimate ceremony with only their closest friends and family, while inviting extended family and friends to join them afterwards for the reception. Over the years, brides have often expressed that they barely remember some of their wedding guests or haven’t seen them in years, so in 2023, they are prioritizing having only their nearest and dearest present during their I do’s. Some couples are even opting to have their ceremony and reception on separate days for a more personalized experience.
Guest counts have dropped, but budgets have not
Expanding on the ideas mentioned above, brides are now placing a greater emphasis on quality, rather than quantity. Couples are choosing to invest their money in luxurious elements, rather than compromising on the quality of their wedding experience to accommodate a larger guest list. They are opting for smarter venues that provide a more intimate and refined atmosphere. Additionally, couples are choosing finer catering options that showcase exquisite culinary delights. Another emerging trend is accommodating their guests at the chosen venue overnight, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the celebration without worrying about transportation or time constraints. By prioritizing quality over quantity, couples are creating unforgettable experiences that reflect their personal tastes and preferences.
Elopement is here to stay
In recent years, there has been a significant shift in wedding preferences, largely influenced by the constraints and aftermath of Covid. Many couples have opted for elopement as their preferred wedding choice. The popularity of elopements has grown to such an extent that travel agents and wedding planners have developed specialized packages catering specifically to eloping brides. Even as restrictions have eased, elopements continue to be a favoured choice for couples who desire an intimate celebration without the presence of a large crowd.
Some couples are even choosing to combine their wedding ceremony with their honeymoon, allowing them to allocate the budget that would have been spent on feeding and entertaining guests towards a more extravagant honeymoon, or important expenses for their new life together, such as a house deposit. By incorporating the wedding ceremony into their honeymoon, couples are able to create a more intimate and meaningful celebration while also maximizing their resources for future endeavours.
In these modern times there are no restrictive rules on how to celebrate the most significant day of your lives as a couple. Each couple should prioritize their own happiness and do what feels right to them. The expectation of adhering to traditional norms is no longer as strong, allowing couples the freedom to make these important decisions based on their own desires.
