What to Expect for Wedding Season 2022

Wedding Season 2022 is here! Seems like just a few weeks ago we were wrapping up 2021. I’ll tell ya, it’s been a heck of a 2 years, that’s for sure! I think 2021 was harder than 2020. Why? Because many couples postponed and had more time to think about what they wanted. Which was usually more than we had originally planned for. But the biggest thing was the fact that everyone thought the whole COVID thing was over and done with. They couldn’t understand that behind the scenes all the vendors were struggling, financially, staffing wise and health-wise.

We all lost a lot of money from cancellations, we couldn’t find staff to help out with events. I literally had a wedding where the entire staff did not show up and I had to take it all on myself. This led to emergency back surgery. But the show must go on and you have to keep a smile on your face! But you really aren’t here to listen to me bitch about all this. So let’s see what 2022 has in store for us!

Smaller Weddings

One of the things I’ve noticed for this year is the guest counts are a lot smaller than pre-COVID. Which actually isn’t too much of a surprise. Some venues have actually cut down on the number of guests they will allow in a space. Again, not a big shocker!

Family Style

Family-style dining for the reception is big this year. With the buffet protocols from the last 2 years, people are looking for something a lot warmer. It used to be that buffet was the least expensive way to serve your guests. But with new protocols in place, it really isn’t. Plated is still a good way to go, but people feel this is a little too formal for a Montana wedding.

Glitter and Sequins

Yes, that’s right you heard me! Glitter and Sequins! Whereas I have had maybe one sparkly wedding every 2 years, this year I have 3! I mean I am not complaining at all! It seems people are wanting a little more and want to go all-out bling! I honestly can’t blame them!

Games

Weddings are a little more laid-back. People want to celebrate and have fun. They want to do board games and yard games. They want to have more interaction and entertain their guests. One game that I’m seeing a lot is where one is blindfolded then they have to pick out their new spouse by only touching their hands. It is quite entertaining and the guests really get into it.

Multi-Celebrations

People have been locked up and they want to really go all out. They are making their wedding a true experience. From multicultural celebrations to days of partying with their people. More and more people are doing a meet and greet a few days before the wedding. Then of course the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner for the wedding party. Luncheons on the day of the wedding. The actual wedding and reception. After parties, once the reception ends. Then brunch the next day.

Making their Destination Wedding a True Experience

As a destination wedding planner, I’m seeing a whole lot of small weddings with experiences. I have couples heading down to Mexico or the Caribbean with 20-30 of their closest friends and family and really making a true wedding experience out of it. For those looking to get the most bang for their buck, you would be surprised how much more you get doing a destination wedding at a resort in Mexico or the Caribbean. People are really utilizing the outdoors here in Montana when planning their weddings. Horseback trail rides, rafting, fishing trips, floating, hiking, and zip-lining. There are so many things to do. With people bringing smaller groups it’s easier for them to do all these fun things together.

The main theme for 2022 is kick back, celebrate, and have fun! Anyone can have your basic wedding with all the things. Why not do something amazing for your celebration? Make your wedding a fun experience that you and your friends will never forget!

Weddings should be fun! They should be a celebration. They should not be stressful and overwhelming. If you want someone to help coordinate and plan your wedding experience whether it’s at a resort in the Bahamas or a true Montana-style wedding, give me a shout!

I truly believe a wedding should be a celebration. Fun for everyone. Not stressful or overwhelming. Let loose and have a good time! Have the wedding you WANT not the wedding people EXPECT!