Our flexible approach here at The Orchard means that our couples can do their dream day however they please – our mantra has always been ‘you do you’. Nevertheless, if you’re planning your wedding, a bit of inspiration always comes in handy. And so here are our predictions for what will be hot in 2025.
Sustainability
It’s not just because sustainability is at the heart of everything we do that we think sustainable celebrations will continue to grow in popularity. It’s a growing trend in most areas of life and weddings are no exception. If you’d like to make yours more sustainable then start thinking about recyclable invitations and reusable/rented decor. Using seasonal, British blooms and local, organic catering options are also a step in the right direction. There are so many ways to make your wedding more eco-friendly and in 2025 we expect to see many more couples looking for new and innovative ways to reduce their impact on the environment. We have a great list of local suppliers we can recommend, just ask.
Flowers to remember
Repurposing flowers from one area to another is a trend we are seeing more and more of and think its popularity will continue. For example the ceremony flowers could be moved to the entrance of the tipis to wow guests as they are seated. We think tipis need minimal decor for full impact. Take a look at Jessie and Joe’s wedding – they moved the flowers from the church to the front of the tipis and in front of the sweetheart table which was stunning and also made use of the floral hoop that hung above the tables. Abi and Ellis opted for dried flowers which they arranged themselves and Sarah and Paul chose Ledbury Flower Farmer for a few big displays which created the wow factor.
Multicultural weddings
In 2025, we expect to see more couples blending many different cultures into their wedding day. From traditions and ceremonies, to food, music and more, this cultural blending adds up to a celebration that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Ayman and Arslan showed us how to do it at their Indian wedding last year and we loved every minute of it.
Going micro
Over the last few years there has been a steady shift away from the quintessential ‘big wedding’ with all that that entails and we expect that to continue in the form of smaller, more casual affairs. And by downsizing their wedding, couples are finding they can focus on creating more unique, intimate experiences for themselves and for their guests. Of course, a cost of living crisis also makes a micro wedding, with its reduced costs, a lot more appealing.
Digital developments
Technological advances will continue to have an increasing impact on weddings in 2025. Digital invitations and bespoke wedding websites for all the relevant information, RSVPs and for guest interaction are just the tip of the iceberg – the use of instant digital photo booths is on the rise, along with other quirky ideas.
Banqueting tables are back
With a more laid-back feel to weddings in general, it’s not surprising that more couples are opting for long banquet-style tables for their celebrations. This format, with guests seated opposite each other, has a more intimate, relaxed feel that promotes conversation and interaction. Couples can dress them up or go with a more natural, minimalist look. Plus, we have to admit, rectangular tables look fantastic in our tipis.
Multi-day weddings
It’s not just hen and stag dos that are now multi-day/weekend affairs, many weddings are going that way too. Starting the day before with a rehearsal dinner/get together, then there’s the wedding day itself and finally, a send-off for guests the day after with a fortifying brunch. The Orchard at Munsley offers exclusive use for the entirety of your wedding weekend, complete with glamping options so guests can stay over on site and there are some superb eateries locally for the rehearsal dinner!
Outdoor wedding ceremonies
We may be a little biassed on this one, but outdoor ceremonies are gaining in popularity. The covid years were a kick start for this trend, but it continues to grow as a popular option. And who can blame couples for wanting to get married surrounded by families, friends and the beauty of nature. Our stretch tent by the duck pond provides the idyllic spot for outdoor ceremonies.
Wedding dresses
Hand-in-hand with the rise of bespoke weddings comes the increasing interest in wedding dresses that allow a degree of self-expression. Traditional white gowns are being sidelined in favour of more individual dresses, in bold colours and materials that better mirror a bride’s personality.
Story-telling photography
Wedding photography continues to evolve away from the traditional, staged style towards a more emotion-led approach that tells the story of the day and also the couple’s story. This more candid style helps to better capture the feel of the day, the emotions and so many unique shared moments that otherwise would be missed. If you need a photographer, whatever style you opt for, we have some great options we can recommend.