HOT TOPIC Join us as some of the regions’ wedding aficionados discuss their 2023 trend predictions SAY “I DO” THE SUSTAINABLE WAY Georgia Bradley, wedding coordinator at Berwick Lodge (www.berwicklodge.co.uk) says: “I believe eco-conscious decision making will be a big trend for 2023. Think thrifting and sustainability, casual yet cool with a focus on the experience. After the last couple of years, we’ve all done some reflecting and have a better understanding of what’s truly important and this has certainly given celebrations a deeper meaning. Think about incorporating special gestures on the day, such as personalised notes; perhaps you could ask guests to make a charitable donation or fund a local project on your behalf. “Think consciously about your purchases. Ask guests to be considerate of how they travel, keep food miles down and try to give back to the environment perhaps by planting your own tree. A wedding dress, for example, can be a huge portion of the wedding budget, so we should be aware of the manufacturing process and how workers are treated. Consider buying a preloved gown, or perhaps repurposing a relative’s. “Finally, 2020 put a strain on the UK’s finances, so look closer to home. On websites such as Etsy, you can find unique high-quality items from independent shops. You could even try Facebook Marketplace for items no longer needed by other couples.” © Christy Blanch Photography 2023 TRENDS SPECIAL BRING ME A HIRE LOVE Lynne Panes at Rustic Rentals (www.rusticrentals.co.uk) says: “More couples are considering sustainability when choosing wedding suppliers and styling. Hiring your décor is a great way to keep costs down and be more eco-conscious about your big day. Plus, you can get better quality items and more for less money. As wedding stylists since 2015, specialising in prop hire, we’ve always created sustainable weddings that not only look fabulous, but are kind to the environment and your pocket. “Wedding sweetheart and couples’ tables are more popular and a little less traditional, offering a more intimate option on your wedding day. These are also useful when complicated family dynamics come into play. The sweetheart table is a small table where you can both sit together rather than having a top table with family and close friends. If your family group is too large for a top table this is a fantastic solution. Trestle tables will also be more popular for guests in 2023 decked in vintage brass candlesticks and fabric runners. “Ceremony flower arches and statement wedding backdrops will both be popular choices for 2023. Large statement floral installations such as asymmetrical arches are a fantastic option for framing the front of your ceremony, before repurposing as reception focal points. Floral meadows too make wonderful aisle arrangements and can be transformed into centrepieces later in the day. Flowers are big budget items, but definitely worth it. If you can add dried flowers and grasses, this can make your pennies stretch further as well as adding plenty of beautiful texture.” https://mariamadison.co.uk www.facebook.com/danwalker.weddingphotography 55 EXPERT ADVICE
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