Wedding Flower Trends You Need to Know for 2021
Even among the pandemic's many pivots, both wedding industry providers and couples continue to push boundaries, shying further away from traditional "norms" to host unforgettable celebrations amidst lingering uncertainties. And this year, we can be certain that the focus will be on intentional planning, personalization, immersive experiences and of course, love.
From dried flowers and nonconventional color palettes to cottagecore, here are the trends we're seeing.
MODERN NEUTRALS AND EARTH TONES. Time-tested favorites, neutral color stories aren't new to the wedding scene. This year, however, many are moving away from standard tones, like ivory and dusty rose, and integrating warmer, earthier shades—terra cotta, rusty orange and tuscany yellow—in their theming. This modern approach is as refreshing as it is stylish, as both palettes combined evoke a soothing, bohemian-esque spirit.
Styling: Ashley Fox Designs | Photo: Polly Mendes Fine Art Photography
EXPRESSIVE PALETTES. On the other end of the spectrum, some couples are choosing bold wedding colors that pack an energetic punch. In the wake of the past year's events, many are electing these unexpected, mood-boosting palettes to help celebrate everything good in life. This wedding season, expect to see an array of retro colors in bright red, yellow, fuchsia, teal, cobalt and purple splashed across floral arrangements, decor items and apparel.
Styling: Botanics Florist | Photo: Beans On Toast For Two
IT'S ALL ABOUT TEXTURE. From bridal bouquets to standout backdrops, designers are spotlighting contrasting textures by mixing fresh and dried botanicals in their wedding creations. Lending well to both vintage and contemporary themes, dried flowers are the low-maintenance, budget-friendly alternative to traditional wedding decor that uses fresh materials. Preserved grasses, branches and other blooms also add a rustic, free-spirited touch and offer a calming blend of neutrals that complement fresh flowers in assorted tones.
Photo: Shutterstock
PETITE BOUQUETS. With shifting preferences towards minimalism, we've welcomed the rise of petite bridal (and bridesmaids) bouquets. A nod to old-world modesty, petite bouquets focus on small size and thoughtfully chosen flowers—either a few stems of a single type or select, varied blooms. These toned-down versions of their oversized counterparts are ideal for the no fuss or budget-conscious bride still aiming to make a statement on her big day.
Styling: Vero Designs | Photo: Anne Rhett Photography
IMMERSIVE ESCAPISM. In our post-pandemic world, wedding planning efforts are more intentional than ever. Even as nuptial plans continue to adjust to adapt to the current landscape, creating immersive, sensory experiences still takes a top spot on the priority list for 2021 through 2022. With smaller guest lists, budgets are being allocated to details—like the decor—that will dazzle guests and set the mood for an unforgettable wedding experience. Luxurious floral installations, for example, can transform venues and establish focal points that make for Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Source: WedLuxe | Floral Styling: Vivio Flowers | Photo: Hong Photography | Creative Direction and Planning: A Stylish Event | Venue: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver | Decor: Mohani Event Design | Tableware: Atkinson's
DECKED OUT TABLESCAPES. Updating traditional centerpieces with limitless creativity, the intricate tablescape is another wedding trend making its mark for the year. Here, eclectic collections of tableware, random containers and loose blossoms (or greenery) mix with votive candles and decorative trinkets to offer a myriad of design possibilities.
Photo: Shutterstock
GO GREEN. There are several high-impact ways to reduce a wedding's carbon footprint—beginning with the floral decor. As sustainable alternatives to traditional wedding flowers, eco-conscious couples can choose foam-free or preserved designs, use locally grown blooms that are in season, or opt for potted botanicals that can be replanted after the day's events.
Styling: Best Day Ever Floral Design | Photo: Marcos Sanchez
REIMAGINED FAVORITES. Once considered humble fillers, "vintage classics," like baby's breath, carnations and Anthurium, have seen a resurgence in popularity to become the starring attractions of floral decor for 2021 weddings. From airy bouquets and aisle arches to epic "chandeliers," designers are thinking outside the box to utilize these traditional blooms in fun, non-traditional ways.
Photo: Shutterstock
COTTAGECORE. Rooted in nostalgia and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures, the cottagecore aesthetic has made its way from mainstream social media to take center stage as a trendy wedding concept. Many couples are embracing the lifestyle's cozy comforts—including soft color palettes, prairie-style fashion, botanical prints, tons of wildflowers, repurposed materials and vintage accents—and incorporating them into their upcoming nuptial plans.
Floral Styling: Olive Owl Flowers | Photo: Sam Sparks | Concept and Coordination: Stories of Events | Venue: Hidden River Cabins
AT-HOME CELEBRATIONS. Even as pandemic restrictions slowly lift, weddings at home remain a popular venue choice for the year and into next. With this trend, quality over quantity is key: micro-weddings are replacing larger gatherings, allowing couples to create a beautiful (yet safe) atmosphere for loved ones to enjoy. And with smaller celebrations, budgets can be used to spoil guests with more intimate, personalized details—like elaborate decor and curated reception menus.
Styling and Photo: Pic and Petal
LOCATION AND TIME SCRAMBLE. With the hope of "normal life" resuming in the near horizon, it's expected that the wedding industry will boom like never before. So as preferred venues and vendors continue to be booked through 2022, couples are turning to nontraditional locations (small restaurants, boats and hidden gardens, among others) and ceremony dates (on weekdays or during brunch hours) to work around the slim availabilities. Not only do these options provide a solution for couples determined to work with select suppliers, but they also offer significant cost benefits.
Photo: Shutterstock
