weddings

Ways Today’s Brides Now Thrive While Wedding Planning

Have you seen those little Facebook memes going around? They show a “before and after” photo, separated by ten years. I was reflecting recently on the last decade, and realizing how much things have changed for the amazing brides planning their wedding days. Here’s some of the (positive) ways that things are different these days than just a decade ago:

-Brides are a bit more focused on close relationships. Studies show that brides are having smaller ceremonies, and focusing on having the people who mean the most to them present at their big day. Because of this, many brides are splurging on more lavish ceremonies, but with less guests. This is actually so smart, because you can have the day you’ve dreamed of, and the people there who mean the most to you! Years ago, it was about having massive ceremonies, and often that meant skipping out on some amenities you dreamed of…not anymore!

-Brides know who they are: Many brides are focused (now more than ever) on showing off their personalities in their florals, or their wedding party outfits. Whether it’s non-traditional wedding dress colors (like a pretty blush hue or even a dark navy!), or choosing things like succulents or butterflies in your bouquet, today’s bride knows it’s less about trends, and more about what makes THEM happy! 

-Brides value their mental health: With the rise in mental health support and resources, many brides have realized that their mental health really does matter! Instead of the old “bridezilla” stereotype, today’s brides-to-be are better at setting boundaries, speaking up, and making their wedding planning a joy, instead of a burden. Many have also opted to hire planners and designers (like me!) to keep their sanity intact.

I love seeing how trends and ideas have changed over the past decade, and love working with all my amazing brides. I’d love to work with you, if you are planning your big day, and help bring your vision to life!

Bridal Themes for 2021

Although we are still in the midst of the worldwide pandemic, many areas are beginning to open back up. So many brides have had to put their celebrations on the back burner because of COVID, but several have decided to pivot their celebrations to something smaller or more intimate, or choosing a creative location that can accommodate the restrictions on venues. It’s been challenging to be a bride in this uncertain time, but I am so impressed with the creativity and innovation that brides are bringing to their wedding days. I wanted to share some of the current wedding trends and colors…if you’re a bride-to-be, maybe you can find some inspiration for your upcoming day!

Source: PEXELS.COM

Source: PEXELS.COM

-Velvet Bridesmaid Dresses: You don’t have to look far to find the year’s trending fabric: velvet is having a major moment. We love the look and feel and the way it adds so much luxury and texture to the photos of your bridal party. If you want some gorgeous options, look no further than BHLDN, Anthropologie’s gorgeous wedding line. They have multiple styles and shades that will work for every member of your party.

-Unconventional Wedding Venues: Because of the limited amount of guests or unusual pandemic circumstances, many brides and grooms are opting for unique venues, such as boats, open air affairs with food carts, or even your own backyard. The need for open air spaces or spread out seating has made church weddings more difficult, as well as indoor, smaller venues. Some states are still restricting the ability to have events with crowds of any size, so creativity can go a long way towards making a new dream come to life.

-Sustainable Weddings: Many brides are more conscious these days with the impact that celebrations have on the environment. Some changes include things like digital-only wedding invitations, using locally sourced produce or farm to table food for catering, and ditching regular favors for things like plants or donations to charity in honor of your guests. Whether it’s something small, such as taking away straws for your reception drinks, or something larger, like using a venue that uses zero-waste policies, addressing your environmental impact is not just trendy, it’s commendable!

-Garland decor: You’ve probably seen the cascading garlands running down long tables, or turned into gorgeous archways. While greenery isn’t anything new, the garlands are more trendy this year. We love the oversized ones for the head tables, draped down onto the floor for extra drama. These kinds of garlands can also be made in whatever style you have for your wedding, including bohemian or farmhouse. You can also use live plants, which is another current trend, especially cactus for those boho brides!

Sparkle and Shine | Featured on Ruffled | Weddings

A romantic field tucked in the heart of the Applegate Valley, made for the perfect backdrop for this sparkle-filled styled shoot. I styled this gorgeous, gold-hued shoot with Rebecca Masters Photography recently (scroll down for full list of vendors). The bridal model wore a stunning, sequined Badgley Mischka gown, and layered a delicate tulle skirt over it from BHLDN, that gave her the versatility of two gorgeous looks with just two pieces. The vineyard shoot featured touches of the woodland outdoors (like the moss tucked in around the cake), with rustic pieces like the table and chairs. Then, I added subtle hints of gold to accentuate her shimmering gown, and to elevate the wood pieces. The overall look was elegant but grounded.

 

PHOTOGRAPHY:

REBECCA MASTERS PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT COORDINATION AND DESIGN:

ALLURE WITH DECOR

FLORAL DESIGN:

BEYOND THE GARDEN GATE

VENUE:

RED LILY VINEYARDS

HAIR AND MAKEUP:

JANICE MOON ARTISTRY

WEDDING CAKE:

TAYLOR MADE CAKES

RING BOX:

THE MRS. BOX

RIBBONS:

FROU FROU CHIC

WEDDING INVITATIONS:

KELSEY MALIE CALLIGRAPHY