wedding party members. In fact, according to Zola’s 2024 Wedding Trends report, 5.99% of those surveyed said that wearing non-traditional or unexpected attire was a way to make the wedding feel more personal to who the couple is. Dinner & drinks We can’t talk about wedding trends without touching on changing catering preferences. The Zola report noted that 42.6% of survey respondents were most willing to splurge on an open bar, while 28.54% splurged on catering. In fact, the report found that couples used catering as a way to personalize the event, looking for a caterer who is willing to accommodate dietary preferences and needs. Likewise, The Knot reported that “a significant portion of the cost per person is allocated to expenses like catering and beverages.” Beverages are always an important part of the wedding reception, and in recent years, zero-proof cocktails are making their way onto menus in an attempt to provide something for everybody. Alcohol pairings for each course of the dinner are also gaining popularity as the dining experience becomes an elevated moment. As far as the revered wedding cake goes, vintage styles may stick around for a moment but not for long. Ribinik shares, “The traditional, old-school ‘80s cakes are making their way back in. Most memorable, we had a bride from Texas who had a St. Regis wedding in New York ... who ordered a huge, very traditionally shaped cake from Ladurée.” “In 2025, it seems like large-tiered cakes will be back in style,” says Strickland. “These will also take the place of passed desserts because cakes of this size will feed the entire guest count, if not more.” We’re seeing a lot more personalization, too—custom flavors, cake toppers, even cultural elements all play a part in making cakes that represent the couple as individuals. Be on the lookout, too, for dome-shaped cakes, textured icing, and metallic elements. Plus: a plethora of extra, surprising desserts to win over the guests with a sweet tooth.
(Above) Bold pops of color are in! Photo courtesy Rosy and Shaun Photography; (Left) 2025 will see more creative food stations. Shown here: Miniature Chicken Tacos and Tequila Cart by Occasions Caterers. Photo courtesy Elisabetta Marzetti
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SPECIAL EVENTS WINTER 2024
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