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Looking Back at Top 2019 Trends

With 2020 approaching, it’s a good time to look back at the hottest trends of 2019 and how they will come into play in the year ahead.

Here are some of our favorite trends from 2019.

Photo courtesy Sunshower Photography – www.sunshowerphotography.com

Romantic roots

In the past year, we’ve seen weddings go back to their origins in romance. For some time, weddings were all about being big and bold to make a statement. But, more recently, we saw couples return to soft romance for inspiration. “Tabletop design is going back to classic romance,” elaborates Mindy Weiss. “Couples are opting for low centerpieces instead of tall and that lends itself to a more natural, romantic look.” Bud vases, soft linens, and a focus on l-o-v-e have been—and will continue to be—the look of the moment.

A royal touch

Inspiration from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding in 2018 carried over into 2019 with a focus on class and simplicity. Sandra Funk of House of Funk adds: “The interior design landscape will feel regal, yet approachable. Like the cake, there are no perfect edges and things will feel handmade. Real flowers, lots and lots of greenery, and crisp, white flowers. Design that is tailored, yet comfortable.” We will likely continue to see this inspiration flow into 2020 — at least until there’s another monumental wedding to make an impact.

Photo courtesy Jenny DeMarco Photography – www.jennydemarco.com

Eco-minded design

Years ago, sustainability was a trend; today, it’s becoming a must. “Going green” is no longer fast fashion, but is now a mainstay. This trend is here to stay, so get familiar with ‘upcycled’ elements and mismatched antiques, like recycled paper stationery, repurposed glassware and candlesticks, and seasonal florals and foliage.

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“It’s no longer just about the WOW factor,” explains Laura Perez of Crystal Events. “Couples are starting to think a lot more about the environment and planning eco-conscious weddings. They are willing to pay more for those providers that will guarantee a zero-waste or waste-reduced wedding, an ecological wedding meal, and even an eco-florist who works with local growers and avoid using petroleum-based foams, for example.”

Downsizing guest lists

As wedding costs go up, guest counts are on the decline — however, it’s not just for budget purposes. Couples are recognizing the value in smaller, more intimate celebrations with only their nearest and dearest in attendance. “Smaller groups of 30, 50, 100 people, and even elopements of two, are getting more popular as the good times, amazing food, elegant event itself with ambient comfort is more important than the volume of guests,” says Sanya Percic of Ellwed Magazine. “A couple’s vision is all that really matters here and the smaller events or happenings within each wedding make it unique and entertaining for the guests.”

Photo courtesy Sunshower Photography – www.sunshowerphotography.com

Stunning stationery

2019 was quite a year for stationery as invitations, menus, and other paper goods became a popular outlet for innovative design. Ceci Johnson of Ceci New York states: “You’re taking it into the world of acrylic. So instead of paper, it’s going beyond that. You can play with watercolor on one side, and foil for text on the other. It makes a really dramatic statement. I’m also seeing invitations taken to a whole other level of dimensionality. Playing with paper and creating 3D form flowers, handmade, petal by petal — this really brings your invitation to life in a gorgeous, tactile way.”

So, what’s to come in 2020? Well, you’ll just have to wait and see what the 2020 Wedding Trend Report has to say. Here’s a hint, though: There’s a lot of exciting new trends to keep an eye on.

Kylie Carlson

Founder / CEO, The Wedding and Event Institute
Kylie Carlson is the owner of ...