and museums/art galleries/cultural centers are the top five most popular venue types. Picture-perfect According to the Zola survey, 54.76% of respondents prioritized photography as the element of the wedding they were most willing to splurge on, making it the top spend above having an open bar and the venue itself. Wedding photos are no longer a stiff, posed affair. Couples want their special day captured creatively—on the rise is candid, documentary-style film photography. “Photographers are getting inspired by magazine-styled shoots, fashion, cinema, bringing abstract vibes and bold colors into their work,” says an article from BrideLifeStyle Wedding & Lifestyle Media. “Couples are looking for photographers who can add that avant-garde flair, making their wedding portraits pop in a way that’s totally refreshing.” Some couples are even hiring wedding content creators to take charge of documenting the day for socials. “As social media continues to rise, people will hire creators to make content for them. These would be reels, posts, TikToks, and more,” says Strickland. “I experienced my first time with a content creator this September, and it was so fun. I am really excited to get her media back because, as a wedding professional, it is one less thing on my plate to create.” In the social media influencer era, couples want the photography to tell the story of their love and to be shared with everyone they know. Hi-tech nuptials Technology is playing an increasingly important role in weddings—not just the ceremony, but in every aspect before, during, and after. “In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the reliance on online resources and advancements
in technology to support wedding planning around the world,” noted the report from The Knot . “Many couples utilize technology from start to finish— whether that means watching videos or turning to social media for wedding inspiration, connecting with vendors via video conferencing or using AI to help plan.” Tech doesn’t just help couples; event pros are amping up the incorporation of recent technology in both the business and events side of things. “AI will play a larger role in design and other elements, sparking even more creativity,” notes Watson. Centner agrees. “AI-powered photo booths will become more popular, offering personalized images on the spot.” Every part of the wedding day will continue to see technology take hold in new ways. “Elopement celebrations with virtual guest streams will likely rise, allowing couples to combine adventure with technology.” Another use? “Stationery is also shifting toward digital RSVPs and augmented- reality invitations.” Technology can offer an elevated guest experience. “Tech-driven entertainment such as drone shows, interactive art installations, and virtual reality booths give you memories for a lifetime!” says an article from wedding destination company Destify. In the past few years, various forms of fun and flashy technology have been
integrated throughout the wedding experience in the form of audio guest books and even holograms—and this will only keep getting more creative as event pros learn how to use the latest tech. Anything to stay on the cutting edge! Circle of life & love Sustainability is no longer a trend; it’s a shift that has found roots in the past few years, producing real changes. “These smaller weddings allow couples to focus on the details, creating thoughtful moments that leave lasting impressions. Eco-conscious weddings have also made a strong impact, with couples opting for sustainable florals, reusable décor, and zero-waste catering,” says Centner. “Sustainable wedding gowns and rentals will become the norm, reflecting a broader shift toward eco-conscious living.” Couples increasingly want to work with vendors who are mindful of their footprint and actively create sustainable experiences.
This setup at a wedding venue crawl featured video mapping projected onto the walls and floors for added flair. Event by VT Group. Photo courtesy Ambient Sky
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SPECIAL EVENTS WINTER 2024
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