There is a new energy filling the air in 2022 and along with it, some exciting wedding trends that are starting to develop early in the new year. This year, weddings will be more distinct than ever before. Instead of seeing the return of some traditional wedding trends, or couples simply putting a spin on what has been before, weddings in 2022 will be defined by the limits of couple’s imaginations. The disruption in the wedding industry over the past two years is now providing the platform for couples to create and plan truly unique weddings for themselves and their guests. Here are eight of our favourite wedding trends for 2022:
Salt and Pepper Diamonds
Couples are ditching the idea of finding a flawless diamond and instead choosing to purchase a striking salt and pepper diamond or set of diamonds for engagement and or wedding rings. Salt and pepper diamonds have been around just as long as their clear counterparts but salt and pepper diamonds are darker and have more varied inclusions which weren’t always as appealing or as well marketed. Salt and pepper diamonds are more affordable, less complex to mine – making them more eco-friendly, and they still offer the same quality and durability as traditional “clear” diamonds whilst being completely unique. If you are looking for a bright and moody alternative then a salt and pepper diamond is an excellent option.
Regency Era Inspired Weddings
Inspired by the hit Netflix series – Bridgerton, we are sure to see the subtle but unmistakable romantic Regency blue hue woven into wedding themes, décor, stationery and attire this year. Wedding dress styles will also begin to feature puff sleeves, empire waistlines and ruffles, with modern designs featuring the shapes, materials and styles that epitomise the period.
Cake Arches
One of our favourite décor trends for 2022 are cake arches. In recent years, arches have gained popularity as beautiful décor displays that create a focal point for the couple and wedding party during the wedding ceremony. Now arches, hoops and other frame designs are being used in the same way by couples, but on tablescapes and stands to attract attention and elevate the design of wedding cakes. The designs include plain, textured or reflective frame shapes made from wood or metal and adorned with flowers and foliage to carry the same wedding theme.
Bows of all Sizes
From big bows that add style to wedding ball gowns to small elegant bows that create an engaging experience when opening invitations, bows are incredibly versatile décor elements that can even be used on a pair of statement wedding shoes or on a wedding cake.
Anni-ceptions
The lockdown has forced couples to rethink their traditional wedding timeline. Hosting a small backyard wedding, eloping or having an intimate ceremony with close family and friends has become the norm. Coupled with travel restrictions, couples are either being forced to or are choosing to wait longer between their actual wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon. An anni-ception is where couples choose to have their wedding reception take place on the first anniversary of their wedding. This can simplify the logistics of planning what is essentially two events – the ceremony and the reception. It can also serve as a really incredible anniversary celebration for a couple that has had to face the disruption of the lockdown throughout their planning.
Unusual Entertainment
Another spin off of the lockdown and the lack of social interaction has resulted in couples seeking more engaging experiences for their wedding entertainment. Weddings are by nature designed to be unique celebrations and there is nothing like incredible entertainment to create a memorable wedding experience for guests. Couples are looking to hire the services of daring circus performers or include theatrical displays. All white jumping castles, axe throwing, piñatas and temporary tattoos are all in. Couples are setting a stage and hiring a famous band to play at their reception and others are even choosing to turn their entire wedding into an extravagant and dramatic dress up ball.
Sober Curious
It is hard to think of a traditional western style wedding that doesn’t include alcohol. Whilst it certainly is odd, and for some, unimaginable to think of attending a wedding which does not include an open bar, more couples are opting to reduce their alcohol intake or abstain completely. The sober curious movement is more about being mindful of alcohol intake and reducing intake for health and lifestyle reasons. When it comes to weddings, the idea creates the perfect opportunity to offer an exciting and unexpected alternative drinks menu and experience.
Bright and Bold Colour Palettes
We are excited to see the return of bright and bold colour palettes to weddings in 2022. Over the past few years we have seen a more subdued colour palette with neutral tones blended with softer hues and simpler combinations of two or three specific colours used throughout wedding themes.
2022 is different. It is all about being confident and curious – perfectly articulated by the Pantone Color Institute “to embrace this altered landscape of possibilities, opening us up to a new vision as we rewrite our lives”. Their Pantone colour for 2022 PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri is a beautifully bright hue of purple.
This year is all about playful, dramatic and distinct palettes through bold, eccentric and even contrasting colour combinations.
