Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Jan/Feb 2020 (Issue 78)

2020 VISION What are the key features likely to be for weddings next year? Ruth says: Wedding trends may come and go but the most important thing to remember is it should always be about the love between you and your other half – something that’s always in fashion! Some of the main influences I think are likely to continue to go from strength to strength include: ❤ FOOD Many venues are incorporating vegan and free-from menus into their wedding offering, thanks to the increased call for plant-based options. With more food stations and less formal eating arrangements, whether your guests are vegan, gluten-free, or just picky, allowing them to choose their own starter, main and dessert enhances their enjoyment. ❤ CAKES With the semi-naked cake remaining a firm favourite, there’s likely to be more of a focus on flavours in 2020. Veering away from the traditional fruit cake and Victoria sponge tiers, we’re seeing a variety of delicately flavoured layers such as elderflower and lemon, lemon and lavender, and even gin-infused sponge! Carrot cake is also making a comeback! ❤ FLOWERS Flowers are not just for bouquets and buttonholes; couples are working with their florists to create showstopping floral installations. Edible flowers are even bringing a touch of style to cocktails and fine dining too. ❤ DOGS Our furry friends are part of the family, so it’s only natural that going into 2020 and 2021 we’ll see more dogs than ever at weddings. This will create demand for more services for boarding your fur baby the night before the big day, with a full groom, bow ties and ribbons to match your colour scheme as well as delivering and chaperoning them at the wedding, allowing you to relax knowing your pampered pooch is well looked after. ❤ REHEARSAL DINNERS Weddings are becoming an extended celebration with many couples arranging a rehearsal dinner the evening before. This traditionally American idea allows friends and family who are travelling to arrive and relax and meet your other guests enjoying a sociable warm up to the day. Ruth Mundy | Wedding coordinator | balmerlawnhotel.com MAKE A STATEMENT We want the flowers to add wow factor to our big day but don’t know where to start. What’s set to be big for the year ahead? Louise says: It looks like time to say goodbye flower walls, hello large statement decorations. 2020 will continue with big impressive arches, think Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry’s royal wedding. Demand for hanging decorations will also continue to gain momentum particularly in the form of foliage or floral chandeliers. Both of the large designs (pictured) are made without non- biodegradable floral foam, another really big choice for sustainable, plastic-free and ethical wedding flowers and decorations. Louise Avery | Florist | louiseaveryflowers.com Images, sarahleggephotography.co.uk 102