Tea Thyme // 2021 Trends + Predictions

Wedding culture will undoubtedly evolve after what we all experienced in 2020. This change may be for the better. We’ve compiled a list from what we’re already seeing more of and what we predict as well.

Every couple is different and we in no way think you should solely focus on trends when planning. We, however, cannot deny our love for this lineup!

Micro Celebrations

We expect to see smaller guest counts as couples focus on close friends and family. State mandates forced couples to drop numbers and quickly word spread that those couples didn’t hate a smaller gathering. Some really enjoyed more time with their guests instead of feeling like they were spread thin mingling with hundreds!

Private Rental Homes

With smaller guest counts a large venue isn’t necessary. We foresee weddings and wedding-related events (rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, gift opening brunch, etc) occurring at rental homes. You can find excellent locations via AirBnb and VRBO that allow couples to celebrate in a unique and flexible location.

We do have to note that although we’ve seen success with this option, real event venues do offer more than one might realize! It can take more steps to turn a home into an event venue.

Emphasis on Lighting

We’re seeing A LOT of focus on the ambience of events, which often revolves around lighting. It can play a big role in creating an inviting, romantic and FUN setting! From candles and reflections (mirrors!) to LED signs and plenty of market/twinkle lights, expect to see a lot of playful lighting in 2021. It’s about to be magical!

The Experience

Couples who have had to wait months or even years, will be ready to celebrate in 2021! One night may not feel like enough. We’ll see more and more full weekend and destination weddings, that will focus on guest experience.

Depending on priorities the experience can revolve around food and drinks, interactive components, live entertainment or the overall flow (think, omitting formalities that couples may not really care about).

The Dress

It’s going to go one way or the other. Either super minimal chic OR extra, with little in between. Don’t ask us to choose a favorite, because we love both options. On one end of the spectrum we have clean lines, Coco Chanel-esque and modern. The other you’ll see puffy sleeves, intricate details (pearls, detailed veils, etc.) and all the removable pieces (long veils, sleeves, 2-piece dresses).

Color Pop (think, sunshine!)

The Pantone color of the year is Illuminating or yellow with grey to contrast. Illuminating is “a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power”. We’ll see black and white drama with big pops of color. Wildflowers, watercolor, you name it. It’s going to be so fun.

Texture + Movement

Photos tell stories and photographers are utilizing movement to emphasize the day’s emotions. Formal photos don’t seem to pull at the heart strings like the moments that spontaneously occur like running down the aisle, laughing until tears fall or a groom carrying his bride through a sparkler exit. Mixing textures to further play up these moments will be big, focusing on materials that moves, like satin and tulle!

Live Streaming

We don’t see this trend dying anytime soon and it shouldn’t. This allows loved ones to join in on the fun while staying home and feeling safe. Couples have been hiring out professionals to cover their day or choosing simpler options like Facebook live or Zoom. If anything, we think a focus on wedding videos will grow!

Local + Eco

Times have been tough on small businesses and as the local economy builds back up we see couples choosing vendors wisely. We predict that couples will opt for small, local and minimal.

This could mean choosing small, family-owned and eco-conscious businesses. Couples seem to have more awareness of the waste weddings create and what they don’t need to purchase. Cutting back on unnecessary waste, decor and plastic will grow as couples see this reducing their budget, too!

Decor and signage rentals continue to grow due to the sustainability and ease. We also see couples investing in pieces that they can utilize after their wedding, such as furniture, plants and artwork.

In the end, it’s your day and you can do it your way!