Here at In The Grove in Bundaberg we’ve watched weddings go through a period of transition during and post-pandemic as couples waited and reflected on what was important to them for their special day. This has given them time to plan, and many have chosen options that are non-traditional.

Smaller Guest Lists

Rising costs have meant that many couples are opting for smaller guest lists, inviting their nearest and dearest family and friends to share their day. The guest list may be smaller, but couples aren’t skimping on the things that are important to them like the look, florals, menu, drinks and choosing a location that will turn the wedding into a week-end getaway.

Colours

Bright colours are expected to be in focus for 2023 with blue and pink amongst the favourites as well as a continuation of the 2022 neutral pallets of natural greenery with white highlights and peach and blush tones. Wedding gowns are expected to be non-traditional with elements of colour incorporated in the gown and bridesmaids’ gowns will continue to be non-matching.

The Wedding Party

Non-traditional and uneven sized wedding parties will be popular as couples focus on their friendship groups to make up their wedding party. Rather than the traditional options of bridesmaids and groomsmen, expect to see combinations of “mates of honour” and “grooms-maids” included. Couples are also choosing to host their bachelor and bachelorette parties together rather than separately as they celebrate with all their “besties” together.

Wedding Invitations

Digital invitations are becoming more popular as just about everyone has a smart phone and internet access. Couples are making eco-friendly choices, cost savings and keeping track of RSVP’s online, making digital an easy choice.

Florals

Over the last couple of years, the cost of fresh floral arrangements has ballooned with very little difference in price and look between fresh and silk or dried. Couples are choosing smaller, minimalist bouquets but up styling their ceremony florals and recycling them to the reception. They’re also choosing seasonal fresh flowers and reception arrangements tend to be made up of clusters of candles and florals of varying heights to create interest on and along the tables.

Considered Menus

We are seeing less formal and more relaxed dining options with more couples choosing a cocktail style wedding set both in the marquee and in the gardens. Couples are thinking the “less is more” option when designing their wedding catering and opting for a few speciality items rather than an excess of food that may be thrown out.

Wedding Favours

Most couples choose to give their guests a wedding favour that is meaningful, with many choosing edible options like cookies or home-made jams. Seeds are also popular so that guests plant them in their gardens as a reminder of the wedding.

The Honeymoon

Honeymoons are sometimes delayed as couples may have purchased a home or a new baby may have recently arrived. During 2022 most couples decided to holiday within Australia and explore our own back yard. Tasmania or North Queensland seemed to be the most popular destinations of choice. We are expecting 2023 to be again the year of travelling overseas with island options like Fiji and Vanuatu to be popular choices.

New Trends

First Look

We’re expecting 2023 to bring in some exciting new trends.

In 2022 we saw the “first look” gain in popularity in Australia, where rather than waiting until the ceremony to see each other, the couple shared their first special moments together, recorded just by their photographer or videographer. We’re expecting this new tradition to be extended to include the bridal party and other significant family members.

First Dance

Another trend that is changing is the “first dance”. Many couples feel nervous and uncomfortable about dancing a slow dance in front of their guests; with some couples choosing to ditch the dance altogether. Here are some alternatives you could consider:

Choose a wedding party group dance followed by inviting everyone to the dance floor
Have a champagne toast followed by all the guests joining you on the dance floor
Opt for a game instead...the Shoe Game is very popular
What about a “first cocktail” instead. Head to the bar to sample your own special cocktail first, then invite guests to the bar afterwards