ON TREND
Traditions leaving the group chat Now more than ever, couples are personalizing their wedding to fit who they are, and that often means leaving behind longstanding traditions. Parent dances, parents walking their progeny down the aisle, garter and bouquet tosses, and long speeches are among some of the most ditched traditions as of late. Ceremonious cake cuttings are out, too. “The traditional cake-cutting moment has taken a back seat as couples embrace creative alternatives to put their own spin on wedding cakes. We see silent cake cuttings or skipping cake altogether, with inspired dessert stations serving late-night food, such as waffle sundaes, pastries, espresso martinis, and espresso cappuccino bars,” says Wyndam. “2024 is going to continue to see couples planning weddings that fit their vision for their celebration, forgoing traditions, norms, and expectations that don't align with their priorities,” Mara Mazdzer (WIPA, Fuse Weddings) predicted for Special Events in 2023. This prediction was accurate, and 2024 saw immense creativity as couples cultivated their own traditions that felt authentic to them. Peterson notes: “I have personally seen a decline in traditional, formal wedding structures like assigned seating and formal sit-down dinners. A more casual, free-flowing event that will allow for mingling and more relaxed vibes throughout the day.” Couples are opting for warm and inviting celebrations that keep guests engaged, rather than lose guests over stale rituals of the past. As couples recraft their traditions and rituals, personalization and authenticity reign supreme.
Wedding dresses are becoming more expressive, with fun and flashy elements like this fringed dress. Event by Jaclyn Watson Events. Photo courtesy Caroline Moretz Photography
2024 in context Couples are on a mission to make a memorable experience that expresses their personalities and tells their story. “Social media has turned life into a game of showing off and keeping up/beating their friend's weddings. Everyone is committed to having the best wedding and they want their guests to show off on socials on their behalf,” says Dennis. In a post-pandemic world, couples are choosing the elements that matter to them, while working what they have— no matter the size of their budget. “Current wedding trends reflect broader social, cultural, and economic shifts. Couples are focusing on creating experiences that feel authentic to their personal stories, moving away from rigid traditions,” notes Centner. “Culturally, sustainability and inclusivity are at the forefront, with couples making conscious choices about décor, catering, and guest experiences.”
Watson agrees. “Right now, personalization and sustainability are trending because couples want their day to feel unique and reflect their values,” she says. “With the economic landscape changing, many are prioritizing experiences over material things, focusing on creating memorable moments with loved ones.” As we enter 2025, prepare for celebrations to let the couple shine and connect with their guests for as long as they can. And as couples practice their authenticity and individuality, practice yours, too: incorporate trends that resonate with you and leave the ones that don’t. As couples leave room for more organic experiences, event pros can offer truly creative and meaningful services that set them apart and showcase their brand. At the end of the day, love, connection, and enjoyable memories are what make a lasting impression—on the couple, on their guests, and certainly on your event business.
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SPECIAL EVENTS
WINTER 2024
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