Five Wedding Trends for 2023

There’s nothing like some festive cheer and the warm fuzzy glow of Christmas to bring out people’s romantic side. In fact, some statistics say that around 40 per cent of all engagements happen in the last two months of the year.

Keeping an eye on the latest wedding trends is one way to find inspiration for all those recent, festively engaged couples, or in fact any wedding planners in 2023. Kayleigh and Alison, wedding coordinators at Mosborough Hall are at the forefront of the wedding sector, overseeing many weddings at the venue every year. Who better then to share their top five wedding trends for 2023?

Cocktail Hour

More couples want to break up the usual wedding timeline with something a little more creative. Into the spotlight – cocktail hour! It might be immediately after the wedding breakfast or a circuit breaker in the evening’s frivolities but there’s a definite trend for a designated cocktail time, mirroring the rising popularity of cocktails in the hospitality sector as a whole.

Whether it’s an array of traditional cocktails – old fashioned, daquiris, margaritas and negronis – or something unique and tailored to the couple. Cocktails are fast becoming the favoured tipple at a wedding party. Many couples want to create a ‘signature serve’ – a delicious bespoke mix created to reflect their own tastes and story.   Creativity too is being incorporated into how the drinks are served - glasses are so last year. Think plant pots, dainty china cups and saucers – even personalised hip flasks.

Mocktails too are gaining popularity as more people look to cut back their drinking habits and live healthier lifestyles. And mocktails don’t ever need to be seen as second best when served with creativity and flair.

The First Look and the Last Dance

Couples are ripping up the rule book when it comes to wedding traditions, many of which are being seen as patriarchal and outdated in today’s society.

The traditional wedding party of bridesmaids and groomsmen is becoming more gender fluid, reflective of society and a couple’s social circle.

Another trend from across the pond, that’s gaining traction is the ‘first look’. It’s a beautiful moment that would previously have taken place at the end of the aisle – not ideal for capturing something so unique and intimate t. This trend sees the first look taken outside of the ceremony space and recorded for prosperity by the photography and videography team, allowing the couple to really relish the moment without having to share it with anyone else. And of course, it makes for some emotional wedding photos to treasure forever.

At the other end of the party, more couples are wanting to signify an end to their day.

So rather than a traditional first dance, more and more are opting for the last dance. Similar to how in years gone by, the wedding party would wave farewell to bride and groom, it’s a brilliant way to round off proceedings, leaving the happy couple time to enjoy their wedding night together.

Outdoor Weddings

There have been some positive changes to the law post pandemic and these too are having a profound effect on where couples choose to say their vows. Until recently, a wedding ceremony could only legally be held outdoors in England and Wales if the venue had a licensed structure, such as a pagoda or bandstand. In 2023 however, venues are allowed to host weddings outdoors anywhere within the grounds giving flexibility for couples to marry in beautiful locations and enabling them to tailor their day like more than ever before.

It’s a trend that lends itself effortlessly to a venue like Mosborough Hall, which not only has picturesque outside space but has recently renovated its outdoor dining facilities. With outdoor seating and a woodfired pizza over and private dining gazebo, the entire day could be conducted al fresco if desired.

Weddings at different times of the day

Personalising your wedding isn’t limited to the obvious choices of décor, dress and venue. Or what you say in your vows! Couples in 2023 are scrutinising every part of their big and that includes the timings.

A ‘twilight ceremony’ can be hopelessly romantic set against a canopy of stars and candlelight. Similarly, an early morning wedding followed by breakfast is a treat that leaves the evening free for you to enjoy one another’s company. Couples are mixing up the format and while they’re at it taking advantage of more affordable wedding ‘off peak’ wedding times too.

Colour Extremes

Subdued colours and low-key palettes are still popular, but more frequently we’re seeing couples bring in energetic mood-boosting colour to their big day.

The Mexican fiesta theme is becoming one of our most popular themes where colour is joyous and celebratory. Think bright paper lanterns and streamers suspended from ceilings or in a statement arrangement hung over tables.

Another interpretation is to use one bold accent with Pantone colour of the year being a perfect choice. Viva Magenta it is a ‘punchy fuchsia meets red’ described by Pantone as being ‘vivacious’, ‘exuberant’ ‘optimistic’ and ‘joyous.

Ideal for adding a pop of positivity to your day and looks stunning on everything from bridesmaids’ dresses to wedding cakes and décor. Add a statement floral runner to your table, a fountain of flowers that trails off to the floor or go bold with bright table linens as more unusual ways to bring in Viva Magenta on your big day.