Howard Photo + Film, Morning Glory Farms
Trends come and go, but nostalgia is forever. Isn't that how the saying goes? Either way, sentimental details are an important part of any wedding day. Imagine decor that pays homage to your shared hobbies, old memories, or timeless traditions. These trends feature a whimsy reminiscent of the good old days with a modern twist.
Some trends are making a comeback, while others inspire a retro aesthetic that's unique to you. Take your guests back in time by creating experiences that promote living in the moment with a nod to the past.
Disposable Cameras
Click Away Photography, Byron's South End, Jennifer Abercrombie Beauty
A once obsolete object, the disposable camera has made a comeback for its aesthetic and mystery. It's more fun not knowing how the pictures turn out until they've been developed. Craft an experience for your guests by offering disposable cameras at your reception! This is a great way to capture the in-between moments of your day that your photographer may have missed. After the film is developed, you could share them via social media, make a scrapbook, or a framed collage of your photos!
Dress Change
Samantha Grigg Photography, Blushing Hair & Makeup, Haley Lynette Photography, Ritchie Hill
A trend that began back in 2008 is back in style: the iconic dress change! This gives brides a chance to slip into something comfier & less formal for their reception festivities. Some brides make the switch right before introductions, while others wait until dancing kicks off or even right before the grand exit of the night! There are no rules to this trend, so it looks different for every bride. Changing dresses is also helpful for preserving your gown's pristine condition, so it doesn't get dirty during dancing!
Rotary Phone Guestbook
After the Tone
A new guestbook trend incorporates retro creativity through its clever branding "After the Tone." This company offers various rotary phones to choose from before shipping it directly to you. Guests can leave a message "after the tone" on the phone as a guestbook sentiment. After shipping the phone back to the brand, they transfer all of the messages onto a vinyl for the bride and groom to play. Of course, you'll need a record player in order to hear your messages, but that's exactly the kind of vintage character this trend promotes. This guestbook idea is creative, unique, and preserves the voices of your loved ones for years.
Vinyl Guestbook
Wedding Wire
A "spin" on the classic guestbook: a record player & vinyl offer a vintage appeal and experience for your guests. Consider staging a record player at your welcome or guestbook table for a unique welcome. Guests will love signing the vinyl for its novelty, which can subtly reveal a shared favorite album or one with sentimental meaning to you two. After the wedding, put it on display in a frame for a sentimental touch in your home!
Pom Pom Exit
Vanlandingham Estate
Include a memento from your cheerleading days with a festive pom pom exit! Imagine your family and friends cheering you both on as you head out as newlyweds to the nostalgic sound of pom poms swooshing. Incorporate your school's colors or stay on theme with your wedding tones by choosing pom poms in the perfect hues. Skip the wedding favors and let guests take a pom pom home as a token of your appreciation!
Balloon Garland
Morgan Amanda Photography, Moliveri Artistry, Balloon Renovations, Terrace at Cedar Hill
FUN FACT: The very first balloon arch was created on July 6, 1979.
Since then, this trend has made an appearance at all kinds of events! Carnivals, birthday parties, and yes even weddings! Balloon garlands create a beautiful frame for any space: doorways, photo backdrops, or reception details like a seating chart or cake table. After all, weddings are like one big party and nothing says party like balloons! Work with your balloon garland professional and florist to discuss colors and floral additions for a show-stopping balloon arch!
Marquee Lights
Carolina DJ Professionals, AlphaLit Letters, Langtree Plantation
For a dramatic lighting installation, consider marquee letters to spell out something sentimental. Whether that be your initials, your new last name, or a romantic statement, marquee letters create beautiful mood lighting for your wedding. The lettered light is perfect to frame your dance floor, stage, or photo backdrop - the possibilities are endless.
A Black Tie Affair
Beca Hale Photography, Avonne Photography, Ritchie Hill
No matter how formal your wedding is, we're seeing more groomsmen take the black tie approach when it comes to tuxes. I mean... how dapper do these gentlemen look? Add a unique detail pop to emphasize the groom or best man like a different colored jacket, different button downs, cuff links, or tie clips.
Ceremony Exit Toss
Tyler James Photography, Little Church on the Lane, Beauty by Lindsey Burchfield
Invite your guests to join in a ceremony petal toss as you make your way up the aisle as husband and wife! This is a tradition as old as time, but this trend is timeless, classic, and makes the best pictures. Toss items like rice or lavender can end up stuck in your hair (or nose!), but petals don't pose any risk to your bridal look or ability to breathe (sort of kidding).
Polaroid Cameras
Yah Photography
Much like disposable cameras, polaroids are all about the experience. You could incorporate a polaroid camera into your reception dance floor or invite guests to snap a pic to pair with their guestbook message! Polaroid cameras are fun, easy to use, and will capture a moment in time to keep forever.