May 28, 2025 • 19 mins
In this edition, we discuss innovative and creative ways couples are personalizing their weddings.
Learn about wedding trends like the First Look, wedding apps, co-ed wedding parties, thematic weddings, and non-traditional venues.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
What are the most surprisingand creative ways couples are
personalizing their weddings?
How can you use the latest trends tomake your wedding an unforgettable
experience for both you and your guests?
Today, we'll explain the top weddingtrends that'll make your special day
(00:21):
not just beautiful, but also memorableand talked about for years to come.
Thanks for joining us.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
Stress-Free Wedding Planning podcast.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I am Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
(00:42):
Listen now and discover the secretsbehind today's wedding trends.
These are wedding insider secrets fora stress free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
while addressing family expectations.
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
(01:03):
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone who's planninga wedding in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you don't wanna miss this.
Welcome to Stress-Free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
(01:24):
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
Get ready to unveil thebest kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
(01:45):
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
On today's podcast, discover thesecrets behind today's Wedding Trends.
(02:07):
By the end of this edition, wewill explain to you how you can
make your wedding stand out, ina year filled with innovative
ideas and cutting edge technology.
Hi, I am Sam from the Award-WinningAtmosphere Productions.
Wedding Entertainment with expertknowledge in the difference in
quality, specializing in liveceremony musicians, cocktail hour
(02:30):
string, musicians plus lighting, andan elegant and classy presentation.
We have exactly what you need.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
That's Atmosphere hyphenProductions dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand the journey to help you with
stress-free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilots of this podcast.
(02:54):
As the wedding industry continuesto evolve, this promises to be a
year of innovation and creativity,offering couples the chance to craft
a truly unforgettable celebration.
Today we'll explain the trends that willmake your wedding day unforgettable.
Hi, I am Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
The experts are creating a stress-free,unforgettable wedding experience.
(03:17):
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's big day, truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of N.E dot com.
This year, weddings are all about blendingtimeless romance with a modern flare.
Now, if you are a couple looking tomake your special day a reflection of
(03:38):
your unique story, then we'll guideyou through the top trends that are
redefining the wedding industry landscape.
Based on our experience in the lastfew years, and what we see with our
current clients, we'll explain and you'lldiscover the secrets behind today's
wedding trends on today's edition of theStress-Free Wedding Planning Podcast.
(04:02):
All right.
What I want to talk about, andit's been a huge thing in the last
few years, is the First Look, itis still the number one trend, and
I don't think this is going away.
If you don't know what the First Lookis, it's typically when the couple
prior to the ceremony, get to seeeach other for the very first time.
The photographer brings you twotogether and then you take some pictures
(04:23):
together, and then you have pictureswith your parents and wedding party and
everything's done before the ceremony.
It gives you an opportunityto relax in between.
Take a few minutes for yourself soyou can kind of collect your thoughts
and realize what is happening.
And then when it comes timefor the ceremony, you'll
feel a little more relaxed.
Those stressful shoulders aregonna come down a little and
(04:44):
you're gonna remember a lot more.
Another trend that we see on thehorizon and that some couples
are using, today is wedding apps.
Now we can talk about The Knot, theWedding Wire and those type of apps
because, they will definitely helpyou plan your wedding reception,
especially if you get, overwhelmed.
(05:05):
As a matter of fact, over the pastdecade, couples using apps like
these has grown above 15% and more.
It's clear that these platformsabsolutely do work to help you track
your guests, track your RSVPs andregister your guests, but there's
also other apps that you can use.
(05:27):
I know one that I recently recommendedto a client was the Sun Tracking
app because she's getting married,later this year and she wanted to
know where the sun was going to be ather reception site for the ceremony.
So there are loads of sun trackingapps and I do suggest that couples
(05:47):
use these to help plan where the sun'sgonna be, especially if you're gonna do
golden hour shots and stuff like that.
So apps, that is the big wedding trend.
The next thing I wanna jump intois talking about Co-ed Wedding
Parties and what are they?
So traditionally the girls, representthe bride and the guys represent the
(06:07):
groom, but that's no longer true.
We have men who have "bestwomen" and the women having the
"man of honor" and then some.
So it doesn't have to bethe same old, same old.
If you have friends that are male orfemale on either side, please feel
free to let them be part of yourspecial day and honor them because
(06:27):
they should be honored 'cause theyare really good friends of yours.
Next on our list oftrends is wedding themes.
Couples personalizing their bigdays more and more couples are just
being just more and more creative.
Something that I've experienced is acouples that wanted a fairytale wedding.
They had Harry Potter or Lord of theRings themes at their wedding reception.
(06:52):
Now you can do whatevertheme that you like.
Just make sure it's consistent throughoutall your planning, and of course,
make it something that you like.
I had a wedding where theyhad TV shows as the theme.
Each table was a TV show they liked.
Friends, Seinfeld, et cetera.
Remember that the theme has gotto follow your personal story.
(07:16):
Don't make it anything random.
Something that Sam and I wanna remind youis you can join us on our YouTube channel.
Just search for stress-free weddingplanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
Next, let's discuss thetrend of shifting locations.
So over the years, what has changed whenit comes to locations is the ceremony.
(07:37):
It's not always at achurch or a synagogue.
Many times now it's at a beach, it's ata park, or maybe the same location that
you're having your wedding reception.
Which can make things so much easierwhen you have it in all in one place.
Other things is having your weddingoutdoors under a tent or even in a barn.
There's just so many other options thanthe typical wedding reception facility.
(08:02):
So, sky's the limit.
Do some research and you can find somereally incredible ways to do something
a little different at your wedding.
Let's now discuss aboutchanging of the names.
Over 70% of today's couples are choosingto have one partner change their last
name to take that of their spouse.
(08:23):
Tradition once dictated that the womantypically took the husband's last name.
This is not the same in modern society.
You can do whatever you want.
I've had many couples that justdon't change any names at all.
Or, the groom may takethe bride's last name.
Very rare, but I've had anoccasion of that happening.
(08:44):
Whether it's a mutual decision or simplya matter of personal preference, changing
that last name has become popular and apersonal choice among today's couples.
Another big thing that's happening beforethe wedding is the Rehearsal Dinner.
This is a pre-wedding traditionthat over 70% of couples are
doing, and for good reason.
(09:06):
It's getting your wedding partytogether, getting your parents together.
It's typically something you doright after rehearsing your ceremony.
It's a nice little gatheringwhere it allows you to have a meal
together and just have a great time.
And this is also a good time togive away your gifts that you're
going to give to your wedding party,so you don't have to worry about
(09:26):
that on the day of the wedding.
We've just explained seven wedding trendsthat you're likely to see this upcoming
year and most definitely during thenext couple of years of wedding seasons.
Coming up next, the Cake Cutting, theFinal Last Dance, Grand Send-Off, and
more wedding trends will make your specialday not just beautiful but memorable
(09:47):
and talked about for years to come.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Community and ask away.
You can also join us on YouTube.
Just search for Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
(10:07):
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun and unforgettable wedding.
Experience the magic of your SpecialDay with Fitzner Productions, our
premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory candidly and authentically
(10:28):
creating stunning high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
ceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi-location
(10:48):
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
We're here to share essential tips that'llhelp you craft the wedding of your dreams.
It's Wedding Tip Wednesdaytime, and today it's walk slow
(11:13):
for that walk down the aisle.
On your wedding day, you'rewalking down the aisle.
You don't wanna go too fast.
You wanna keep a nice pace,but don't go too slow.
You do wanna take the time for yourguests to enjoy seeing you as you
enjoy the attention of everyonethat's there for your special day.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
(11:34):
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress-Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free.
Welcome back to our discussion,discovering the secrets
behind today's wedding trends.
Yes, the trends you are likely tosee at the upcoming weddings or
trends that you can incorporateinto your wedding celebration.
(11:54):
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
And I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
We've already discussed the FirstLook, co-ed wedding parties, outdoor
ceremonies, rehearsal dinner, and more.
Now let's discuss thatcake cutting ceremony.
The cake cutting ceremonytypically happens after the meal.
(12:15):
It's served as dessert.
Couples would feed each other,and this would be in the event
that pictures would be taken.
Now you don't have to do thecake cutting after the meal.
We've had couples that do it right afterthe First Dance or after the First Dance,
do the parents dances, and then the cake.
Get it outta the way.
Two thirds of couples still includethis moment on their wedding day,
(12:38):
so it is something that is still apopular tradition, but it's evolving
on when it's going to be done.
This classic tradition symbolizesthe couple's shared future and
is a highlight at the reception.
So something we've been noticing inthe last couple seasons is what's
called the Final Last Dance.
(12:58):
And what I mean by final last dance, thisis a private dance between the couple.
So you've had the last song for yourguest and now we get 'em out of the room.
So it's just your moment alone.
A nice romantic moment with a song of yourchoice, and you just let the music play.
Enjoy the moment, take it all in.
(13:19):
So now we need to prepare for this dance.
So the first thing that needs to happen iswe need to get the guest out of the room.
Let them know that the party'sover and they need to move on.
And we're gonna have this veryspecial dance just for the two of you.
Now we to make sure thefacility knows what's going on.
Your DJ has to be aware of it, of course.
And if your photographers orvideographers, there till the end, you
(13:42):
wanna make sure that they're aware thisis happening so they're not packing
up and missing this great moment.
This is such a wonderful momentjust to be by yourselves.
Kind of take in that whole day.
It's just such a romantic moment,and what a great ending to a wedding.
Now, if you are not doing thePrivate Last Dance as a special
farewell, you can do another trend.
(14:04):
That's the Grand Send-Off.
Nearly half the couples that we workwith are choosing to have a Grand
Send-Off at the end of the reception.
Now, this is done after the LastDance, so you do the Final Last Dance
and then you usher the guest outside,and typically it's a sparkler exit.
(14:25):
That's the most popular one.
But you can do other things.
Make sure you check with yourfacility to make sure that you can use
sparklers or anything else that youwant to do, for your Grand Send-Off.
And then what we do is invite the guestsoutside for a Grand Send-Off, and the
guests would line up outside and you wouldwalk through the middle and hopefully a
(14:46):
photographer or video would, capture that.
So Grand Send-Offs, very populartrend and I hope it continues.
Do you like the party?
Here's another trend you could do.
It's called the After Party.
This is right after the wedding.
We're finding that mostcouples don't do this.
But the ones that do, it's either a veryspecific list of people or it's a free
(15:07):
for all dance party, having a great time.
So it's typically at a differentlocation, where they've set up
time for just them and no otherpeople are walking into this party.
So it's just a very special moment withyou and the couple and just having a
great time for just a little longer.
'cause the party doesn'thave to end right away.
Just a reminder, if you haven't done soalready, join us on our YouTube channel
(15:30):
and search for the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam,
subscribe, and you will get it first.
Now as we start to wrap up thisedition, there's a couple more
trends that we want to discuss.
So one of those is the FarewellBrunch or the Morning-after Brunch.
Farewell Brunch is typically done in thehotel that most of the guests are staying.
(15:53):
Morning-after Brunch, same thing.
You can set up something there.
Or you can do it at a family or friend'shouse, that they've set up that you can do
that depending on what your expenses are.
The Farewell Brunch or the Morning-afterBrunch is a thoughtful gesture, but
it's also an unnecessary expense.
(16:13):
Don't think that this trendyou have to do because many
guests are not gonna go to it.
It's typically for guests that aretraveling outta town or traveled long
distances or have a flight later inthe afternoon, something like that.
Less than 25% of ourcouples are opt in for it.
However, for those that do, it's a greatway to relax and an opportunity to meet
(16:37):
the couple again after the wedding, gettogether with close family and friends,
and share stories of the big day.
The next trend is not somethingthat is dealt on the day of your
event, or even the next day.
It's prior to, is getting readyfor your big wedding, and that's
Virtual Vendor Consultation.
In our experience since COVID-19,people aren't really doing in-person
(16:59):
meetings anymore, it's, it's virtual.
I know in our own company it'salmost a hundred percent virtual.
Now we're actually moving intoa smaller office because of it.
So this is something that we'reseeing a lot of and talking to
a lot of other professionals,they say the same exact thing.
Photographers and videographers arefinding that people are not meeting
with them in person and they're doingmore and more of the virtual thing.
(17:23):
We may be almost a hundred percent,but I think right now we're looking
at about 75% as an industry.
So this is something that's happeningand it's, it's available to you.
Now you don't have to drive anywhere.
You just turn on your computer andyou get to see the vendor and talk to
them and, make things easier for you.
So no travel, no fuss.
It makes things so much more simpler.
In our experience, couples are takingcontrol of their wedding experience, and
(17:49):
this is a trend I think will continue.
From the big moments to thesmallest details, our couples
want it to be personal.
Whether it's choosing unique locations,embracing technology, or reimagining an
old tradition, modern couples are allabout personalization, connection with
(18:10):
the guests, and celebrating their lovein a way that's meaningful to them.
So there you have it.
If you're planning your wedding thisyear, take inspiration from these
trends and make your celebration asunique and special as your love story.
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sal, or our
community of stress-free engaged couplesand wedding experts to answer any wedding
(18:34):
related questions, then join us in thestress-free Wedding Planning Facebook
group.
Once you're in, go ahead and share yourconcerns and worries, and we'll let you
know if you are on the right track or ifthere are some things you need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
go to Facebook and search for thestress-free wedding planning community.
(18:54):
Remember to do something nice forsomeone today, and if you can't,
then do something nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until next time, it's TTFN, Ta-ta for now.
Thank you for listening to this edition.
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
(19:15):
We'll catch ya then.
Ciao.
The Stress-Free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
What are the most surprisingand creative ways couples are
personalizing their weddings?
How can you use the latest trends tomake your wedding an unforgettable
experience for both you and your guests?
Today, we'll explain the top weddingtrends that'll make your special day
(00:21):
not just beautiful, but also memorableand talked about for years to come.
Thanks for joining us.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
Stress-Free Wedding Planning podcast.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I am Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
(00:42):
Listen now and discover the secretsbehind today's wedding trends.
These are wedding insider secrets fora stress free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
while addressing family expectations.
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
(01:03):
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone who's planninga wedding in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you don't wanna miss this.
Welcome to Stress-Free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
(01:24):
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
Get ready to unveil thebest kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
(01:45):
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
On today's podcast, discover thesecrets behind today's Wedding Trends.
(02:07):
By the end of this edition, wewill explain to you how you can
make your wedding stand out, ina year filled with innovative
ideas and cutting edge technology.
Hi, I am Sam from the Award-WinningAtmosphere Productions.
Wedding Entertainment with expertknowledge in the difference in
quality, specializing in liveceremony musicians, cocktail hour
(02:30):
string, musicians plus lighting, andan elegant and classy presentation.
We have exactly what you need.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
That's Atmosphere hyphenProductions dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand the journey to help you with
stress-free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilots of this podcast.
(02:54):
As the wedding industry continuesto evolve, this promises to be a
year of innovation and creativity,offering couples the chance to craft
a truly unforgettable celebration.
Today we'll explain the trends that willmake your wedding day unforgettable.
Hi, I am Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
The experts are creating a stress-free,unforgettable wedding experience.
(03:17):
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's big day, truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of N.E dot com.
This year, weddings are all about blendingtimeless romance with a modern flare.
Now, if you are a couple looking tomake your special day a reflection of
(03:38):
your unique story, then we'll guideyou through the top trends that are
redefining the wedding industry landscape.
Based on our experience in the lastfew years, and what we see with our
current clients, we'll explain and you'lldiscover the secrets behind today's
wedding trends on today's edition of theStress-Free Wedding Planning Podcast.
(04:02):
All right.
What I want to talk about, andit's been a huge thing in the last
few years, is the First Look, itis still the number one trend, and
I don't think this is going away.
If you don't know what the First Lookis, it's typically when the couple
prior to the ceremony, get to seeeach other for the very first time.
The photographer brings you twotogether and then you take some pictures
(04:23):
together, and then you have pictureswith your parents and wedding party and
everything's done before the ceremony.
It gives you an opportunityto relax in between.
Take a few minutes for yourself soyou can kind of collect your thoughts
and realize what is happening.
And then when it comes timefor the ceremony, you'll
feel a little more relaxed.
Those stressful shoulders aregonna come down a little and
(04:44):
you're gonna remember a lot more.
Another trend that we see on thehorizon and that some couples
are using, today is wedding apps.
Now we can talk about The Knot, theWedding Wire and those type of apps
because, they will definitely helpyou plan your wedding reception,
especially if you get, overwhelmed.
(05:05):
As a matter of fact, over the pastdecade, couples using apps like
these has grown above 15% and more.
It's clear that these platformsabsolutely do work to help you track
your guests, track your RSVPs andregister your guests, but there's
also other apps that you can use.
(05:27):
I know one that I recently recommendedto a client was the Sun Tracking
app because she's getting married,later this year and she wanted to
know where the sun was going to be ather reception site for the ceremony.
So there are loads of sun trackingapps and I do suggest that couples
(05:47):
use these to help plan where the sun'sgonna be, especially if you're gonna do
golden hour shots and stuff like that.
So apps, that is the big wedding trend.
The next thing I wanna jump intois talking about Co-ed Wedding
Parties and what are they?
So traditionally the girls, representthe bride and the guys represent the
(06:07):
groom, but that's no longer true.
We have men who have "bestwomen" and the women having the
"man of honor" and then some.
So it doesn't have to bethe same old, same old.
If you have friends that are male orfemale on either side, please feel
free to let them be part of yourspecial day and honor them because
(06:27):
they should be honored 'cause theyare really good friends of yours.
Next on our list oftrends is wedding themes.
Couples personalizing their bigdays more and more couples are just
being just more and more creative.
Something that I've experienced is acouples that wanted a fairytale wedding.
They had Harry Potter or Lord of theRings themes at their wedding reception.
(06:52):
Now you can do whatevertheme that you like.
Just make sure it's consistent throughoutall your planning, and of course,
make it something that you like.
I had a wedding where theyhad TV shows as the theme.
Each table was a TV show they liked.
Friends, Seinfeld, et cetera.
Remember that the theme has gotto follow your personal story.
(07:16):
Don't make it anything random.
Something that Sam and I wanna remind youis you can join us on our YouTube channel.
Just search for stress-free weddingplanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
Next, let's discuss thetrend of shifting locations.
So over the years, what has changed whenit comes to locations is the ceremony.
(07:37):
It's not always at achurch or a synagogue.
Many times now it's at a beach, it's ata park, or maybe the same location that
you're having your wedding reception.
Which can make things so much easierwhen you have it in all in one place.
Other things is having your weddingoutdoors under a tent or even in a barn.
There's just so many other options thanthe typical wedding reception facility.
(08:02):
So, sky's the limit.
Do some research and you can find somereally incredible ways to do something
a little different at your wedding.
Let's now discuss aboutchanging of the names.
Over 70% of today's couples are choosingto have one partner change their last
name to take that of their spouse.
(08:23):
Tradition once dictated that the womantypically took the husband's last name.
This is not the same in modern society.
You can do whatever you want.
I've had many couples that justdon't change any names at all.
Or, the groom may takethe bride's last name.
Very rare, but I've had anoccasion of that happening.
(08:44):
Whether it's a mutual decision or simplya matter of personal preference, changing
that last name has become popular and apersonal choice among today's couples.
Another big thing that's happening beforethe wedding is the Rehearsal Dinner.
This is a pre-wedding traditionthat over 70% of couples are
doing, and for good reason.
(09:06):
It's getting your wedding partytogether, getting your parents together.
It's typically something you doright after rehearsing your ceremony.
It's a nice little gatheringwhere it allows you to have a meal
together and just have a great time.
And this is also a good time togive away your gifts that you're
going to give to your wedding party,so you don't have to worry about
(09:26):
that on the day of the wedding.
We've just explained seven wedding trendsthat you're likely to see this upcoming
year and most definitely during thenext couple of years of wedding seasons.
Coming up next, the Cake Cutting, theFinal Last Dance, Grand Send-Off, and
more wedding trends will make your specialday not just beautiful but memorable
(09:47):
and talked about for years to come.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Community and ask away.
You can also join us on YouTube.
Just search for Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning podcast with Sal and Sam.
(10:07):
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun and unforgettable wedding.
Experience the magic of your SpecialDay with Fitzner Productions, our
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(10:28):
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That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
We're here to share essential tips that'llhelp you craft the wedding of your dreams.
It's Wedding Tip Wednesdaytime, and today it's walk slow
(11:13):
for that walk down the aisle.
On your wedding day, you'rewalking down the aisle.
You don't wanna go too fast.
You wanna keep a nice pace,but don't go too slow.
You do wanna take the time for yourguests to enjoy seeing you as you
enjoy the attention of everyonethat's there for your special day.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
(11:34):
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress-Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free.
Welcome back to our discussion,discovering the secrets
behind today's wedding trends.
Yes, the trends you are likely tosee at the upcoming weddings or
trends that you can incorporateinto your wedding celebration.
(11:54):
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
And I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
We've already discussed the FirstLook, co-ed wedding parties, outdoor
ceremonies, rehearsal dinner, and more.
Now let's discuss thatcake cutting ceremony.
The cake cutting ceremonytypically happens after the meal.
(12:15):
It's served as dessert.
Couples would feed each other,and this would be in the event
that pictures would be taken.
Now you don't have to do thecake cutting after the meal.
We've had couples that do it right afterthe First Dance or after the First Dance,
do the parents dances, and then the cake.
Get it outta the way.
Two thirds of couples still includethis moment on their wedding day,
(12:38):
so it is something that is still apopular tradition, but it's evolving
on when it's going to be done.
This classic tradition symbolizesthe couple's shared future and
is a highlight at the reception.
So something we've been noticing inthe last couple seasons is what's
called the Final Last Dance.
(12:58):
And what I mean by final last dance, thisis a private dance between the couple.
So you've had the last song for yourguest and now we get 'em out of the room.
So it's just your moment alone.
A nice romantic moment with a song of yourchoice, and you just let the music play.
Enjoy the moment, take it all in.
(13:19):
So now we need to prepare for this dance.
So the first thing that needs to happen iswe need to get the guest out of the room.
Let them know that the party'sover and they need to move on.
And we're gonna have this veryspecial dance just for the two of you.
Now we to make sure thefacility knows what's going on.
Your DJ has to be aware of it, of course.
And if your photographers orvideographers, there till the end, you
(13:42):
wanna make sure that they're aware thisis happening so they're not packing
up and missing this great moment.
This is such a wonderful momentjust to be by yourselves.
Kind of take in that whole day.
It's just such a romantic moment,and what a great ending to a wedding.
Now, if you are not doing thePrivate Last Dance as a special
farewell, you can do another trend.
(14:04):
That's the Grand Send-Off.
Nearly half the couples that we workwith are choosing to have a Grand
Send-Off at the end of the reception.
Now, this is done after the LastDance, so you do the Final Last Dance
and then you usher the guest outside,and typically it's a sparkler exit.
(14:25):
That's the most popular one.
But you can do other things.
Make sure you check with yourfacility to make sure that you can use
sparklers or anything else that youwant to do, for your Grand Send-Off.
And then what we do is invite the guestsoutside for a Grand Send-Off, and the
guests would line up outside and you wouldwalk through the middle and hopefully a
(14:46):
photographer or video would, capture that.
So Grand Send-Offs, very populartrend and I hope it continues.
Do you like the party?
Here's another trend you could do.
It's called the After Party.
This is right after the wedding.
We're finding that mostcouples don't do this.
But the ones that do, it's either a veryspecific list of people or it's a free
(15:07):
for all dance party, having a great time.
So it's typically at a differentlocation, where they've set up
time for just them and no otherpeople are walking into this party.
So it's just a very special moment withyou and the couple and just having a
great time for just a little longer.
'cause the party doesn'thave to end right away.
Just a reminder, if you haven't done soalready, join us on our YouTube channel
(15:30):
and search for the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam,
subscribe, and you will get it first.
Now as we start to wrap up thisedition, there's a couple more
trends that we want to discuss.
So one of those is the FarewellBrunch or the Morning-after Brunch.
Farewell Brunch is typically done in thehotel that most of the guests are staying.
(15:53):
Morning-after Brunch, same thing.
You can set up something there.
Or you can do it at a family or friend'shouse, that they've set up that you can do
that depending on what your expenses are.
The Farewell Brunch or the Morning-afterBrunch is a thoughtful gesture, but
it's also an unnecessary expense.
(16:13):
Don't think that this trendyou have to do because many
guests are not gonna go to it.
It's typically for guests that aretraveling outta town or traveled long
distances or have a flight later inthe afternoon, something like that.
Less than 25% of ourcouples are opt in for it.
However, for those that do, it's a greatway to relax and an opportunity to meet
(16:37):
the couple again after the wedding, gettogether with close family and friends,
and share stories of the big day.
The next trend is not somethingthat is dealt on the day of your
event, or even the next day.
It's prior to, is getting readyfor your big wedding, and that's
Virtual Vendor Consultation.
In our experience since COVID-19,people aren't really doing in-person
(16:59):
meetings anymore, it's, it's virtual.
I know in our own company it'salmost a hundred percent virtual.
Now we're actually moving intoa smaller office because of it.
So this is something that we'reseeing a lot of and talking to
a lot of other professionals,they say the same exact thing.
Photographers and videographers arefinding that people are not meeting
with them in person and they're doingmore and more of the virtual thing.
(17:23):
We may be almost a hundred percent,but I think right now we're looking
at about 75% as an industry.
So this is something that's happeningand it's, it's available to you.
Now you don't have to drive anywhere.
You just turn on your computer andyou get to see the vendor and talk to
them and, make things easier for you.
So no travel, no fuss.
It makes things so much more simpler.
In our experience, couples are takingcontrol of their wedding experience, and
(17:49):
this is a trend I think will continue.
From the big moments to thesmallest details, our couples
want it to be personal.
Whether it's choosing unique locations,embracing technology, or reimagining an
old tradition, modern couples are allabout personalization, connection with
(18:10):
the guests, and celebrating their lovein a way that's meaningful to them.
So there you have it.
If you're planning your wedding thisyear, take inspiration from these
trends and make your celebration asunique and special as your love story.
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sal, or our
community of stress-free engaged couplesand wedding experts to answer any wedding
(18:34):
related questions, then join us in thestress-free Wedding Planning Facebook
group.
Once you're in, go ahead and share yourconcerns and worries, and we'll let you
know if you are on the right track or ifthere are some things you need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
go to Facebook and search for thestress-free wedding planning community.
(18:54):
Remember to do something nice forsomeone today, and if you can't,
then do something nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until next time, it's TTFN, Ta-ta for now.
Thank you for listening to this edition.
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
(19:15):
We'll catch ya then.
Ciao.
The Stress-Free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
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