The famous saying "so many men, so many minds" can use applied to most industries, but few more so than the wedding industry. A few years ago, the wedding industry was like a broken record – the same thing over and over again. Luckily for modern brides, there are no longer staunch expectations for what a wedding should be. The bride and groom are free to be as creative as they want and surprise guests with unexpected twists or completely abandon the big celebration and opt to elope. Here are five modern wedding formats that would suit the most diverse of couples...
Classic wedding
The traditional wedding follows an established rhythm: a morning photo session, followed by the ceremony and the wedding reception with the first dance to follow. One of the advantages of a traditional wedding is that guests of ages will feel comfortable. A classic wedding reception is suitable for any number of guests and can be held at almost all banquet venues. Elegance and restraint in design, an individually thought-out evening program and excellent cuisine are all features of a modern classic wedding. Another modern trend is attracting interest from guests and loved ones by creating digital content for the event.
Drinks reception
If a classic wedding banquet seems too much fuss to you, there is the option of a simple drinks reception. It is worth noting that even such an easy and relaxed format requires serious preparation. Don't be fooled! You should think about the venue, the types of drinks that you want to serve, and the entertainment that will keep the guests occupied. It might be a nice idea to hire a band instead of a DJ to inject some energy into the evening. You should also prepare light snacks and canapes at your drinks reception. be sure not to serve anything that will require cutlery if you do not have any available seating!
@popupplanningco, @indigolcherry
Party
A wedding party is the most popular mix of the first two formats. The celebration begins classically: a light buffet, the registration ceremony, then the party can start! The dinner section does not last all night, but only long enough to give your guests some fuel to dance until dawn! During the dinner section, all the traditional moments like the toasts can go ahead, leaving the rest of the evening for dancing and fun. This format, surprisingly, does suit more people than you might think! Guests can leave whenever they are ready, and you're free to enjoy a night of celebrating with your nearest and dearest. We would recommend having some seating though, as everyone needs a place to take a breath and have a drink!
Family dinner
If the couple doesn't want a big wedding celebration, an intimate dinner for relatives and friends is a great compromise. You won't need a classic wedding dress and tuxedo, and the organizing of this event doesn't require an agency and the services of a Master of Ceremonies. We advise you to pay special attention to the choice of a restaurant, as the interior and cuisine will play the largest role. It might also be a nice idea to prepare memorable surprises for your guests and make sure that you still ask a few family members to make speeches!
@megankellyweddings, @nousnousphoto
Just the two of you
More and more modern couples are choosing to sign a piece of paper and jump into a dream honeymoon. Weddings are expensive and some people would rather spend that money on planning the trip of a lifetime! Many hotels around the world offer special programs for couples including dinners in amazing places, ceremonies by the ocean, private excursions and so much more. You don't need to elope to a faraway destination. Instead, you can take a walk through places that are significant for you in your hometown, arrange a photo shoot in a café where you had your first date, come up with something symbolic and special to you as a couple, and then repeat this tradition every year. It's your day, plan it how you want it!
