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2020 Wedding Trends

In with the New

In 2020, wedding trends seem to center on one singular notion: Couples are passing on tradition and reaching, instead, for their own sense of individuality. While there will inevitably be some timeless elements woven into each celebration, what will reign supreme are the big and small touches that reflect the personal styles, tastes, passions and perspectives of the happy couple. And, frankly, shouldn’t this have always been the case? 

Beyond Traditional:

The traditional white or ivory wedding gown will always have its place. But the 2020 bride might be ready to take a chance on something new and exciting where her ensemble is concerned.  She may crave a gown with bold sleeves, a vibrant hue, a floral pattern or decadent appliques. She may even opt to bypass the dress altogether in lieu of a two-piece ensemble or a pantsuit, even if only for the reception.  And we are all for letting the lady have her day to shine however she sees fit.  

Unexpected Groom:

The 2020 groom may just trade in his classic black tuxedo and dress shoes for a look that seems to turn tradition on its ear. Bold footwear options, tuxedo jackets in vibrant colors and unexpected materials or a willingness to bypass a tux or suit altogether will give him a chance to step off the beaten path and onto the road less traveled.  

Interactive Moments:

Long gone are the days of stiff and boring wedding receptions. In 2020, couples have made their guests’ experience a top priority. From an Insta-worthy photo backdrop to an ice-sculpture-turned-self-serve bar to an adult-only bouncy house, this year’s primary wedding theme is fun. Couples are hiring sketch artists, magicians and the like and allowing guests to customize their own meals to ensure each moment of the celebration is memorable. And while the number of guests in attendance at weddings in 2020 is on the decline, we’re certain that couples are making a concerted effort to choose quality over quantity. 

Bold yet Sustainable:

Subtlety is so overrated. Sustainability, however, isn’t.  In 2020, there is a way to honor your sense of style while considering the carbon footprint you create in the process. Uniformed chairs and matchy-matchy table displays are passé. Instead, couples are choosing bold, mismatched vintage and antique chairs, loveseats and sofas, and, whenever possible, are reincorporating the seating into cool lounge areas at the reception. Bonus cool points will be awarded to any friends and family members who are willing to loan you theirs for your big day.  

Beyond the Reception:

Tablescapes are focused on unique décor elements that create an exciting vibe rather than those that adhere to a restrictive two-color palate. Vibrant, monochromatic backdrops are being created with lighting, reclaimed fabric or spray-painted silk flowers. Customized neon signage makes a bold statement, and hanging centerpieces engage guests from the ceiling to the dance floor. Perhaps the best thing about these unique décor elements is that they can be incorporated into the couple’s love nest once the nuptials are complete.  

Unplugged:

Our world is so inundated with technology. It’s not only a distraction at a wedding – it can be downright intrusive. This might be the primary push for the unplugged experience. Aside from the logistics of paid photographers and videographers having to navigate around snap-happy guests insistent on getting the perfect shot, couples may simply want to be the first to break the happy news to the world. Perhaps they just want their guests to enjoy the moment without having to cave to the incessant urge to connect on social media. It’s all about enjoying the here and now. This notion transcends even to the honeymoon, where some couples are seizing the opportunity to truly connect with their partners – sans smartphones, tablets and laptops. Social media will be there, but the couple will only get one shot at their wedding day and their honeymoon. 

If a couple has called for an unplugged wedding, kindly honor their request without complaint. You’ll be surprised how much human connection there is to be found when you ignore your phone for a while.  •

About Kimberly N. Bonéy

Proud wife and mom, is a freelance writer, designer, up-cycler and owner of Herstory Vintage. When she’s not working, she is joyfully wielding jewelry-making tools and paintbrushes in her studio. Antique shops, vintage boutiques, craft stores and bead shops are her happy place.

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