Wedding Trends and Tips For 2022
- Written by
- Abby Beswick
Now that COVID-19 restrictions have eased, the wedding boom has returned and couples are ready to celebrate their big day like never before.
If the past two years have taught us anything however, it’s that even the best laid plans can go awry. To help ensure their big day goes as smoothly as possible, savvy couples are changing the way they plan their wedding and as a result we’re seeing some new wedding trends emerge.
We speak to two experts about wedding trends that are flourishing and get their advice on how to help make your wedding planning a little easier when creating your dream day.
Cakes
Kim Forsythe, co-founder of Baked with Love in Taupō, is passionate about creating wedding cakes that look and taste exceptional.
She’s seen many of her clients’ weddings impacted by COVID-19 over the past two years, but happily, this is changing as couples are feeling more confident to set their date and start making plans. “We are seeing multiple wedding cake inquiries every week now which is super exciting,” she says.
When it comes to trends, couples are opting for smaller weddings, with reduced guest lists that include closest family and friends. Yet the cake remains one of the most important elements of the day.
The biggest decision when choosing a cake is the flavour. If it’s going to be served as their dessert, they tend to go for fruity options like lemon curd and white chocolate or the decadent roasted berries and dark chocolate, says Kim. Clients can choose from an extensive range of flavours including gluten free and vegan options.
Fully iced and semi naked cakes are both equally popular this season. White is still the preferred colour along with pinks and rusts, often with some gold texture. To add that personal touch, flowers matching the bridal bouquet are placed on top.
If you’re not sure which wedding cake is right for you, Kim ‘s advice is to: “make it big and beautiful”. Style your cake to match the bouquets and table decorations, and place it on a separate table so it’s a centrepiece, says Kim. Most importantly, make sure there’s plenty to go around. Everyone loves cake and as the bride and groom, you don’t want to miss out on tasting your own cake!
Marquees and event hire
Eventrent owner/operator Donna Inch has spent the last 13 years helping couples create their perfect wedding setting, and specialises in ensuring the process is as stress-free, and as enjoyable as possible. The marquee and event hire business, based in Taupō, offers a range of stunning stretch tents and marquees that give couples the ultimate freedom to choose where and how they celebrate the day.
From the family bach to your own backyard, Eventrent’s modern marquees can work in any space, and offer greater freedom – such as BYO beverage and catering. As part of their service they offer a complete hire range to finish your set-up to perfection including, lighting, flooring, linen, decorations and much more.
There has been a shift to smaller and more casual weddings, says Donna, making it easier if there are changes in the guest list. Instead of the traditional formal seating, couples are opting for a cocktail style lounge set-up inside, and relaxed outdoor areas. Guests are served canapés and grazing platters, rather than a sit-down meal, allowing for more social interaction.
Weddings outdoors, under the stars, are also a trend, and have incredible ambience. However, it’s important to be prepared if the weather doesn’t play ball, says Donna. “Don’t leave it to chance that there will be amazing weather, and make sure you have your Plan B well and truly organised and ready to push play should you need it.”
Black and white are favourite colours this season, bringing an element of glamour, along with fresh, opulent foliage and more natural arrangements.
When choosing a wedding venue, Donna recommends visiting as many as possible to get a feel for what you want. Make sure you check their cancellation and postponement policies as not all venues refund deposits if your plans have to be changed.
Baked with Love
A: 11 Gascoigne Street, Taupō
P : 07 376 5513
E: weddings@bakedwithlove.co.nz
Eventrent
A: 19a Miro Street, Taupō
P : 07 378 6614
E: events@eventrent.co.nz