As we step into the promising year of 2024, the world of weddings is poised for a transformation. This evolution is shaped by various factors, including cultural shifts, technological advancements, and the ever-changing preferences of couples. While predicting the future is never an exact science, I believe that by drawing insights from the evolving trajectory of weddings in recent years, we can gain a glimpse into what the wedding trends of 2024 might look like. In this article, I'll delve into some of the wedding trends that I anticipate will either continue to flourish or emerge as defining features of weddings in the coming year.
Tech-enhanced experiences
Get ready to incorporate technology into every type of event. Shown here: an immersive reception at the Toronto Design Exchange. Photo courtesy Eatertainment
One of the most exciting trends I'm looking forward to in 2024 is the increasing integration of technology to enhance the wedding experience. I've noticed that weddings are no longer confined to physical spaces; they're evolving into immersive journeys.
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are poised to play pivotal roles in creating unforgettable moments. Just imagine your guests donning VR headsets to be transported to exotic destinations, virtually experiencing other guests and journeying together. Or imagine their reactions as they step into a whole new world with the help of advancements in projection mapping tech. It's exciting to see that Toronto's Design Exchange has already embraced these immersive capabilities for events, setting the stage for other venues to follow suit.
These tech-enhanced experiences also extend to décor, adding an extra layer of excitement. I can hardly wait to witness holographic projections, interactive light shows, and digitally enhanced floral arrangements that can change colors at the touch of a button.
Unique personalization
For those who want personalization but aren’t quite ready for a real tattoo, temporary tattoo stations are a popular option, like this station at Catersource + The Special Event 2022. Photo courtesy WASIO Faces/SpotMyPhotos
Personalization has been a significant trend in weddings for some time now. In 2024, I expect to see couples taking personalization to new heights by infusing their weddings with unique and niche touches. Our goal is to ensure that our client’s special day is a true reflection of their personalities and love story.
One trend I'm particularly excited about is the use of custom temporary (or, like we’ve been seeing lately, real) tattoo stations where couples and guests alike take home a very memorable keepsake. These tattoos not only serve as fun favors but also create a sense of unity among our guests. Additionally, I'm keen on exploring unconventional cake toppers and individually tailored wedding favors. Personalized candles, artisanal chocolates, or even customized mini succulent plants are all delightful options to add a personal touch to the celebration.
Food & beverage experiences
Pulpo a la Gallega from The Amway Grand Plaza’s MDRD rooftop restaurant (Grand Rapids, MI). The gorgeously plated dish features Galician-style grilled octopus, fingerling potato, dehydrated olive, pimentón oil, and squid ink vinaigrette. Photo courtesy Quinn PR
Culinary experiences have always been a focal point of weddings, and in 2024, they're expected to take center stage once again. We are eager to surprise and delight our clients through food and beverage choices.
We're also embracing the farm-to-table dining trend, as it aligns with our desire to support local businesses and offer our clients fresh, seasonal ingredients. Food trucks have also caught our attention, as they can provide a casual and eclectic dining experience. Themed cocktail bars, with mixologists crafting unique drinks, are another idea we're excited about. We're open to exploring fusion cuisine to offer our clients a memorable culinary journey that reflects our diverse capabilities.
Interactive food experiences are piquing interest as well. Nitrogen ice cream stations, where guests can watch their ice cream being made in a cloud of nitrogen, promise to add an element of surprise and entertainment to any dining experience. Flamboyant dessert presentations, complete with fire and dramatic plating (examples of picture-perfect plating can be found in our sister magazine Catersource at the end of this issue, page 150) are sure to capture the attention of guests and make for memorable Instagram-worthy moments.
Wedding fashion
Unique wedding attire is gaining popularity, like this couple in flannel and rich hues set in a gorgeous woodland ceremony. Photo courtesy @freepic.diller
Regarding wedding attire in 2024, we see couples eager to break away from tradition and embrace options that allow them to express their individuality. Bridal jumpsuits, unconventional dresses in vibrant colors, and mix-and-match separates are becoming more “normal” choices. We believe that a couple’s fashion choices should reflect their true selves and create a wedding that feels authentic.
It’s more than just experimenting with attire; couples are also encouraging their guests to do the same. Unique dress codes are likely to become more common, promoting creativity and self-expression among attendees. Picture a wedding with a “vintage glam” dress code or one that encourages guests to wear their favorite decade's fashion. This trend adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to the celebration.
Film photography and video
Wedding photos taken on film have nostalgic and ethereal qualities. Photo courtesy Seniv Petro
While digital photography remains a staple in wedding documentation, we see a shift toward the timeless allure of film photography. Couples appreciate the nostalgic and ethereal qualities of film images, especially for capturing candid moments and the energy of the dance floor. In 2024, I think many couples will be considering incorporating film photography into their wedding, alongside digital coverage, to create a diverse visual narrative of their special day.
This film photography trend extends to wedding videography as well. I’m excited to see the resurgence of grainy cinematography reminiscent of old home movies and the use of Super 8 mm film to capture the romantic essence. These vintage-inspired videography styles add a touch of authenticity and charm to wedding documentation, and I love that it seems to be a trend that even the younger generation is gravitating toward.
While the wedding landscape continues to evolve, what truly makes a wedding special is the love shared between two people. These trends are simply avenues for couples to express that love and commitment in their own distinct way. Next year promises to be an exciting one, filled with innovation and creativity in the world of weddings.
As we prepare for the 2024 wedding season, we envision a delightful fusion of technology-driven experiences, highly personalized touches, culinary adventures, unconventional fashion choices, and a rekindled love for the nostalgic allure of film photography and videography. These trends offer us exciting tools to help clients tell their unique love stories in a memorable and meaningful way.
See Sebastien Centner LIVE at Catersource + The Special Event!
With an All Access Pass, you can see Sebastien Centner present at Catersource + The Special Event, to be held in Austin, TX this February 2024. Sebastien will also be signing copies of his book Eatertainment: Recipes and Ideas for Effortless Entertaining, available to all.
