Weddings Reimagined: Planning Your 2021 Wedding

With a weird, wacky year almost in the rear view mirror, it’s time to look forward to better, brighter days. *cough* The BIG DAY. You know that one that it’s been on the backburner ever since the world fell to pieces, both you and your partner occasionally shrugging at each other as if to say ‘eh, we’ll see what happens.’

Weddings are back! Refocused and reimagined to fit the changing times. So as you start planning your walk down the aisle here’s a few things to consider.

Is Bigger Always Better?

As restrictions gradually phase out, guests lists can be opened up to more people. More people. Which also means more tables, more entrees, more chairs and more drama. Sound like a headache? Sit down with your partner and get ruthless about who you want at your wedding.

More importantly, who will still be in your lives ten years down the track! Trust me, it is not fun having ex-friends and random colleagues clogging up your wedding photos. Write down the people you absolutely want to party with today, tomorrow and next decade. Be prepared for the numbers to be less than you expected.

And as for possible hurt feelings . . . well, let’s just say Covid remains a great excuse.

Backyard Weddings? Is It My Thing?

In 2021, guest numbers are expected to shrink to accommodate changing restrictions, so you may need to rethink that 700 people capacity dance hall. Instead consider more intimate locations such as large backyards, local properties or even booking out your favourite restaurant.

Styling trends are adapting to support these new intimate events, we’ve seen dress codes relax and decor focus on more minimalist, casual aesthetics. Most ceremonies can be set up with an arbour, a handful of chairs and a stunning backdrop. Rather than relying on venues to add these items to your bill, many decorative pieces can be hired from local event companies. Similarly, reception furniture, flowers and tableware can also be hired to fit your guest numbers and save on expensive venue packages.

You do not need a grand palace to have a beautiful wedding, however it is important to make sure that you are still incorporating the elements you’ve always imagined on your big day. Look back on old pinterest boards, instagram saves or (if you’re old school like me) bridal magazines to remind yourself of your styling must haves. You’ll be surprised how many would work with a smaller wedding.

I Wanna DANCE With Somebody

Sorry Whitney, but it’s 20 people maximum. And those 20 people can’t be interchanged which means no dance breaks if you want to keep the party jumping.

Ask yourself, is dancing an important part of who you are as a couple? Will your wedding guests want to dance? Do you love dancing?

Honestly, if you answered yes to any of those, wait. This is your big day and you don’t want to regret not being able to break it down on the dance floor.

Budget Breaking Down?

It’s no secret that many people lost their jobs in 2020, which means your wedding budget may be a little bit smaller than you expected last year. Financial conversations are never easy so we recommend grabbing a glass of wine and having a real conversation with your partner.

What are the top three things you want at your wedding? Maybe it’s flowers, food and a beachfront venue? Maybe it’s top shelf alcohol, live music and spectacular photos? These conversations can help clarifying where to invest your money and make sure you’re both getting what you want out on the big day.

Our advice? Shop local. Your first Google search is always going to pull up brands and companies with money to burn. If you want a more personalised approach at a fraction of the cost, investigate local vendors who may be able to make custom floral designs, table settings or ceremony packages to fit your budget.

Psst . . . It’s also not a bad idea to hire furniture, tableware and decor. Buying items, even for small weddings, can end up cluttering your kitchen for decades. Check out our hire range today.