2020 was a heartbreaking year for the wedding industry, with almost all celebrations postponed. We felt the impact of this at Combermere Abbey, and our heart went out to all the wedding suppliers affected, as well, of course, as the couples who couldn’t enjoy their special day as planned. Throughout the past year, we’ve been a fierce advocate of the #WhatAboutWeddings campaign and our team has even been offering advice out to couples who had to re-schedule their wedding day in the likes of Happiful magazine.

However, we recognise that the past is the past and we are looking at 2021 with a hopeful heart and really believe that we’ll see a return of wedding celebrations this year. This is strengthened by speculation in parliament that Easter could see some form of normality resume for our industry. So, with this in mind, our wedding planning team have put together some wedding trends that we hope and expect to see this year.

Wedding Trends For 2021

Double Celebrations

We believe some brides and grooms may consider a double celebration. As you’re aware, currently weddings are only permitted to take place in exceptional circumstances and as restrictions ease, it’s likely that capacity limits may only increase incrementally rather than in one go. So couples could choose to exchange their vows on their intended date in a small and intimate ceremony, and then enjoy a larger celebration later in the year as normal numbers become acceptable. Here at Combermere, we are already talking to couples about such an option, with The Glasshouse for the ceremony and our Pavilion as the ideal venue for a larger party later on. For more information or to ask specific questions, please email our team on [email protected].

Image credit: Paul Joseph Photography

Buying Local

Numerous lockdowns have devastated so many wonderful local talented and creative suppliers and that’s been felt throughout the wedding industry. We champion those small businesses, and we encourage all our couples in 2021 and beyond to support local suppliers in their wedding celebrations, you can find our suppliers via our website.

Intimate Weddings

It goes without saying that the popularity of intimate weddings is on the rise, and not just because of the current restrictions forcing a change in plans. One of the rising wedding trends for 2021, is offering couples this option that they might not have considered up until this point. Last year, we wrote a blog on the benefits of choosing an intimate wedding day, which included having more time to spend with close friends and family and also having the opportunity for those loved ones to stay overnight and extend the celebration with you when you choose a wedding venue with accommodation.

Image credit: Toni Darcy Photography

Eco-Friendly Celebrations

Every year, we become more environmentally conscious and sustainability is now even playing a bit part in weddings. Even making small changes to your day such as sourcing local produce for meals, or opting for biodegradable confetti, are becoming more popular amongst couples looking to marry in 2021 and beyond. At our sustainable wedding venue in Cheshire, we plant a tree in our bridal grove for every wedding that takes place. It’s our way at Combermere of saying thank you and acknowledging your wedding day and creating a beautiful memoir of your special time which you can come back and visit year on yearWeekday Weddings

Due to limited wedding availability following postponed celebrations, those who are looking for a last-minute venue might consider a weekday wedding. Though not as traditional, there’s so much to love about a weekday wedding if your guests can afford the time off work. Extend your celebration with an overnight stay at your venue, a larger selection of dates to choose from and of course you can benefit from lower costs.

Making Up For Lost Time

Finally, we believe that one of the big themes for 2021 will be making up for lost time, for those who had to postpone their date last year. A focus on experience, whether that’s including fun and games in your wedding day (we love lawn games), or going all out on your venue dressing. As soon as it’s safe to host a large celebration, we can’t wait to see them taking place at our beautiful garden venue again. The time will soon come for plenty of love and laughter.

If you’d like to find out more about our award-winning wedding venue, based on the Cheshire/Shropshire border, you can get in touch with our team on [email protected]. Or keep up-to-date with us on social media. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Image credit: Gingerbeard Wedding Photography