(www.magpiewedding.com) commented, “Couples are bringing in specialists to capture short form videos that they can then post on TikTok and Instagram within 24 hours. This sits alongside a traditional photographer. Think snippets of the day, behind the scenes action and even trending dance routines!” Danielle’s snippet: With this in mind, even your food/drinks bar has to be Insta-worthy for the photos, and it makes it even more appealing for guests to indulge in! Think: rustic tables adorned in flowers and themed props with a grazing platter spread. TAKE A SHOT, WE’VE TIED THE KNOT Incorporating drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, throughout the day to create a social atmosphere has become increasingly popular. According to Bryan Levato, director of Spin & Shake (https://spinandshake.co.uk), pre-ceremony refreshers are making their mark, as they “allow you to beat the heat and set a relaxed tone by offering signature cocktails and mocktails before the ceremony. It allows guests to mingle and enjoy the atmosphere.” Danielle’s snippet: Another trend which is set to stay which complements this perfectly is personalised cocktails and serving your guests ones named and inspired after the happy couple! Another trend on the rise is first dance drinks. There are always the special few that you can rely on to get up and boogie the night away, however, for those that somehow resist the tempting tunes of Whitney, there’s a way you can encourage all your guests to get up and wanna dance with somebody. Sam Beeny, owner of Pretty Prep Studio (https://theprettyprepstudios.co.uk) has been in the wedding industry for 10 years and seen a prominent rise in first dance drinks; he said, “If you haven’t heard of this yet, you will. To encourage everyone onto the dancefloor, couples are wheeling out a trolly of shots to encourage people to get on the dancefloor and stay there!” Danielle’s snippet: Shots, cocktails, beers and vinos are all great ways to create a sociable atmosphere but do consider your tee-total and designated-driver guests! My husband and I don’t drink alcohol, so some considered options for us at a wedding always go down a treat, making us feel just as special and welcome. Luke Herman from Crafty Brewing commented, “Weddings are a fun one for us, couples love to embrace uniqueness, and we get to provide it for them. Drinks are a large part of wedding celebrations, and couples rightfully value the finer details greatly. Our completely customisable beers are an increasingly popular way to accommodate the drinks in a picture-perfect way, individual to each wedding. We have recently done a celebrity wedding for a US rockstar’s son which looked incredible.” FOOD EXPERIENCES A wedding should reflect the couple getting married and formality isn’t everybody’s go-to choice. Couples no longer feel obligated to host a three-course sit-down dinner, many are favoring informal options from street food and food trucks to mash potato bars! Immersive dining experiences are also gaining momentum for being both memorable and entertaining. Some of the most popular ways to incorporate this is through the likes of theater dining, live-cooking or guest DIY pizza making. For those who do choose a sit-down dinner, couples are curating bespoke menus, with each course representing a highlight of their relationship, such as places they have travelled and shared interests. This can also be done across grazing tables and canapés. Although trends do come and go, whilst others are here to stay, it’s all about putting your own spin on the day. Danielle’s snippet: Also top of the foodie’s list for 2025 weddings •Buffets, might seemed old-fashioned, but the modern take on this are grazing tables and stations. Social-led, a feast for the eyes, it’s a trend here to stay. •Going green, cutting down carbon footprint is still on couples’ minds when planning weddings and making concious choices even when it comes to food and drink, the source and the presentation is essential. •Healthy options and non-alcoholic options are must-haves for all those guests with allergies, intolerances and lifestyle choices. •Bespoke, personalised, unique, find ways to make the day and the food about you! 56
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