Modern Day Wedding Trends

If you look back as far as even ten years ago (or even my wedding day in 2010), you will see how much traditional wedding trends have changed. Millennials are taking matters into their own hands and putting a modern twist on how they step into forever with their significant other and we applaud them. Below are just a few of the modern day wedding trends we are seeing couples embrace.

Just look at how happy this modern couple is!

Shopping for engagement rings together

What used to be one partner taking the lead in popping the question as the other dropped subtle hints has now pivoted to couples making it an outing and choosing the ideal engagement ring together.

According to a recent study, one third of couples browse for ring styles together. Some even end up splitting the bill. This could be because the average spend on engagement rings has gone up twenty-five percent from 2011.  While the average time spent looking for a ring can go on for around three and a half months. Not to mention, couples have said that they looked at an average of twenty-six rings before deciding on the one.  So maybe joining forces to get a little extra help from your significant other isn’t just a bonding experience, but a time and money saver as well!

The “First Look”

Although it is far from traditional, couples are opting to see each other before the ceremony. We call this the “first look” in the wedding world. I am a fan!  To me, there is something so exciting about that moment you tap your soon to be husband or wife on the back.  It is a little secret you share. Believe it or not, the tradition started during the time of arranged marriages. I think we are all more modern than that today!

Wedding Venue vs. Church

Another modern day wedding trend that has become more and more common is nixing a traditional church ceremony.  In 2016, only twenty-six percent of couples had their wedding ceremony in a religious establishment proving that the majority of marriage ceremonies were taken place at the venue or elsewhere.

There are a number of reasons why this is becoming the new trend. One being that the ceremony and the reception can be held in the same location. This makes things convenient and straightforward for your guests, meaning fewer people getting lost (yes, this happens). In addition to the convenience factor, having your ceremony at the venue allows you to choose who you’d like to perform the ceremony as well as decorate the space the way you’d prefer. Traditional churches, unfortunately, have some barriers when it comes to accommodating your specific needs.

Renting Attire Online vs. Buying In Store

It used to be customary to go in to your local tuxedo and bridal shops to rent/buy your wedding party attire. Now, the more modern day approach is to go online and rent from companies such as The Black Tux for your wedding tuxedos and Azazie for your bridal party selections.

Couples find it more convenient to rent this way rather than go in store. Not too mention, your bridal party is scattered across the US or the world.   It seems as time goes on, that renting online will be the more efficient way to obtain your wedding day apparel. Plus there are great options. Just don’t wait too long to order or try on before the day.

Photography: Christina Lilly Photography

Florals: Devon & Pinkett

Tent: Sperry Tents

Planning & Design: Gilded Lily Events

 

Grooming Tips for the Groom

When you’re planning a wedding, we believe every little detail matters. You have spent hours choosing your color theme, putting together your guest list, perfecting the florals, preparing the menu, and putting together the playlist-just to name a few. With such a long list to do before the big day, often times the Groom’s preparation is the last thing on your mind. After all, he doesn’t need to worry about whether he should wear his hair up or down, getting that makeup just right, or fitting into the dress. However, it is his special day too, and there are some steps he can take to look and feel his best on his wedding day. We have compiled some grooming tips for the groom before the wedding with a little help from Harry’s.

STYLING YOUR HAIR

When it comes to how to style your hair for the big day, you don’t want to do anything drastically different. Since it’s your wedding day, you want to choose a hairstyle that best represents you.  If you choose to go for a new haircut, it’s best to do a “trial run” at least three months before the wedding date. You want to give it time to grow in if you decide it’s not the right look for you. Also, be sure to take photos of the haircut right after you get it done, so you can replicate it later. It’s best to stick to a barber you know and trust; talk to friends and colleagues to find out who they recommend if you are still not confident with yours.

If you plan to use hair products, again, you should do a test run a few days before the wedding. Since the event itself will be long, you need to be certain that your hair won’t look oily or limp by the time the night ends. Try to avoid products with lots of chemicals, as you don’t want anything that will irritate your scalp during long term use.

GROOMING YOUR FACE

Much like your haircut, deciding how to groom your face should not be a last minute decision. It’s best to know in advance exactly how you want your face to look on the big day. If you plan to have a beard, make sure it’s trimmed neatly. If you plan to shave your face, make sure you use a new and sharp blade. Using a cheap or dull razor can leave cuts on your face, and you don’t want to have to photoshop your wedding photos later.

If you don’t already, you should get in to the habit of washing and moisturizing your face as soon as you set the wedding date. It can take some time to start seeing the effects of a daily cleaning regime, so it’s a habit that has long term benefits. Planning a wedding is stressful, and forming a routine early on in the process will help eliminate any breakouts related to stress. When it comes to choosing a moisturizer, first make sure it’s designed to work for your skin type. You can take a test to determine your skin type. As a general rule, when you’re starting out with a product, try to avoid harsh chemicals, and don’t put anything new on your face at least a week before the wedding.

ENJOYING YOUR DAY

Worrying about grooming shouldn’t be an additional concern during an already busy day. Having the foresight to be diligent in your grooming habits leading up to the big day will not only ease your mind, but will make your special day a lot more fun and carefree.

photo credit: Kate Ignatowski 

florals: Sebesta Design

tuxedo: Tom Ford

wedding dress: Marchesa