The wedding industry had to make some major pivots during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wedding professionals had to continue to create meaningful celebrations for their clients while also staying profitable. As weddings return to a pre-pandemic normal, there are some trends that are here to stay. Whether these trends were developed in a response to COVID-19 restrictions, or there has been a change in focus for engaged couples, these trends will be prominent for upcoming weddings.

Small weddings

Tiny weddings became quite common during COVID-19. For many, it was a way to still celebrate and adhere to local pandemic guidelines. These small weddings have turned from a necessity to an entire style of wedding. Often called micro-weddings, these weddings might have a small guest list, but they do not lack style. Much like larger weddings, there are various levels of budget and extravagance for micro-weddings, however, the common theme is the couple inviting a handful of important people to celebrate. The small guest list allows for adventure locations, special dining options, and attention to detail that may be cost prohibitive with a large-scale wedding. 

Elopements

In the past, the word elopement implied a courthouse wedding or a trip to Vegas. However, throughout COVID-19, numerous couples went the elopement route with their own spin. One favorite trend, an adventure elopement, consisted of a couple spontaneously grabbing an officiant and photographer and hiking out to a mountaintop or waterfall. Curated elopements are being offered as services by planners, photographers, and officiants. As time goes by, custom elopements will continue to be a perfect option for couples who want to celebrate without a big wedding. 

Ceremony focus

After being unable to celebrate their nuptials for more than two years, some couples are putting more focus on the marriage ceremony. While the ceremony was important, the wedding reception was traditionally the star of the show. However, renewed focus on the ceremony has been showing up as more elaborate decor, lengthier ceremonies, and more meaningful vows. The reception will always be a big part of the day, but some couples have been shifting the focus (and budget) toward creating a more memorable ceremony. 

More hospitality

The pandemic forced couples to be separate from their family and friends for long periods of time. As people gather with the couple to celebrate their love, there is an excitement about being together. This is translating into wedding weekends that are filled with parties. Couples are creating an event not just about their marriage but spending time with their friends and families. 

Contracts and insurance

Finally, and most important, contracts have become more detailed and event insurance has become essential. COVID-19 tested the durability of contracts within the wedding industry, and many business owners had to add pandemic language and consult with lawyers to ensure their businesses were protected. 

Event insurance has also become even more important to engaged couples. While some venues have required this insurance, it is now more important than ever for couples to protect themselves with a policy. 

Markel Event Insurance is an easy and affordable solution for your clients, with policies starting as low as $75. A free event insurance quote takes only a few minutes online or on the phone. 

Get more information now on the Markel Insurance website on how easy it is for event planners to recommend event insurance to their clients.

*This post is sponsored by Markel Service, Incorporated

This blog is intended for general information purposes only, and should not be construed as advice or opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. The content of this document is made available on an “as is” basis, without warranty of any kind. This publication is not intended to be legal, underwriting, or any other type of professional advice.  Persons requiring advice should consult an independent adviser.  Markel does not guarantee any particular outcome and makes no commitment to update any information herein, or remove any items that are no longer accurate or complete. Terms and conditions for rates and coverages varies. Insurance and coverage are subject to availability and qualifications and may not be available in all states. Coverage descriptions listed are intended to be brief and do not replace actual policy language. Nothing herein shall be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation or offer to purchase any products or services. Coverage is provided by one or more of the insurance companies within Markel and policyholder services are provided by the underwriting manager, Markel Service, Incorporated, national producer license # 27585, in California d/b/a Markel Insurance Services, license # 0645481.  Certain products and services are provided through various non-admitted insurance company subsidiaries of Markel and are offered through licensed surplus lines brokers or through Markel West Insurance Services California license # 0D95581. 

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