What Are the Wedding Trends for 2022

After what has been an incredibly challenging period for couples trying to plan their weddings, the year 2022 has some surprises in store for those looking to finally tie the knot this year.

From more environmentally and health-friendly menu choices to rented wedding dresses, this year is expected to usher in several new trends that will soon become the norm. So, without further ado, let's talk about them!

#1: Rented Wedding Attire

Men have long rented wedding attire, with grooms and groomsmen often paying a small fee to have suits and tuxedos for the weekend. However, wedding dresses have always been considered an essential one-time purchase that turns into a cherished memory of that special day, treasured for a woman's lifetime.

This year, however, there has been a shift in attitude, with more and more brides choosing to rent their attire (including the wife of Boris Johnson) rather than buying it. Not only does this practice save money on wedding expenses, which seem to be getting more expensive every year, but it also helps reduce waste since the dresses can be used multiple times.

#2: More Non-Alcoholic Beverage Options

Alcohol has long been closely associated with weddings. Whether it's toasts, speeches, or the festive spirit during the wedding reception, alcoholic beverages have long been considered essential for a good time.

However, 2022 marks the year when couples are making room for a more comprehensive selection of non-alcoholic alternatives such as non-alcoholic wine, beer, spirits, and mocktails.

Not only is the number of sober individuals increasing (especially within Generation Z and younger generations) for health reasons, but the pandemic has reshuffled life events for many people, with many brides now pregnant or breastfeeding, just like many of their guests.

#3: Rustic and Nature-Inspired Wedding Palettes and Styles

Rustic weddings are in vogue. While they've been popular for some time, 2022 has seen them explode into the spotlight. With increased attention to the environment and more people spending time outdoors due to the pandemic, this connection with Mother Nature has become more important than ever.

Color palettes are shifting towards earthy and woody tones, reflected by elements like compostable cutlery and tableware, and other sustainable table pieces that guests can take and reuse. Whites and pastels have faded, and the era of rust has arrived, defined by driftwood, earthy flowers, and copper decor elements.

#4: Wedding Crèche and Nanny Services

As mentioned, the pandemic has disrupted the traditional order of life events. Today, many brides are either pregnant or have given birth not too long ago, and many of their friends and family find themselves in a similar situation. So, as there are more children than ever at weddings in 2022, there is a growing demand for creche-like services at these special occasions.

By offering the services of a trusted caregiver on-site, marrying couples ensure that guests who may have to bow out due to childcare reasons can attend the ceremony, and give parents the opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves without worry.

#5: Rising Destination Weddings

As many couples have had to put their plans on hold once, twice, or even three times, there is a growing trend of couples "going big" with their weddings and inviting guests to join them abroad for this long-awaited ceremony.

After waiting for so long, couples want to head to glamorous destinations like the south of France to guarantee sunny conditions (well, almost guaranteed) and the opportunity to host an outdoor celebration like no other.

#6: Vegan Wedding Food

In line with increased environmental awareness, the ever-growing number of vegans in society means that these dietary lifestyles will become a feature of many weddings in 2022.

Not only might you attend a wedding with an entirely vegan menu, but there will also be a focus on sourcing local, with provenance and seasonality taking on increased importance.

#7: Increase in Garden Weddings

Another effect of the pandemic has been the time we've all spent in our gardens. Some have enjoyed it so much that they've decided to host a wedding in their own garden.

While this may not be possible for everyone, searches for garden marquees and garden wedding items are on the rise as people look to take their indoor celebrations outside. Whether it's renting a plot of land or creating an intimate celebration at home, gardens are high on the wedding agenda for 2022.