There’s an exciting buzz whenever we enter the new year—especially for modern brides who are planning their uniquely beautiful wedding day. This new beginning inspires a fresh, new collection of wedding trends.

In 2022, over 2.5 million couples held weddings to celebrate their legacy of love—the highest number of weddings since 1984. Experts predict this number will only increase in 2023.

At de Vasco’s Daughters, we’re seeing many of our modern, style-led couples embrace these anticipatory 2023 trends. From satin dresses to statement details, let’s uncover the eight trends we plan to see more of in the new year. 

2023 wedding design trends to watch

Interestingly, 2023 trends are less about following a specific style or aesthetic and more about curating the right wedding details. Here is our list of the top 2023 wedding trends to watch, starting with a vibrant and elaborate color palette.

Vibrant and elaborate colors

We’re noticing a trend among couples who gravitate toward vibrant, elaborate, and bright colors. Popular color palettes are usually inspired by the Pantone color of the year, influencing more event planners and couples to incorporate that color into their wedding day. 

We’ll see these vibrant and bright colors in the florals, linens, and paper products along with what the bridal party chooses to wear. 

It’s also becoming more common for couples to ask their guests to wear a certain color or stay within a certain color palette to match the vibe of the day. This is another area where we might see more of those vibrant and elaborate colors.

Smaller guest lists

When COVID hit, couples were forced to either postpone their day or continue with a much smaller and more intimate guest list. While many couples celebrated their postponed wedding in 2022 when there were fewer restrictions, we know the small and intimate guest list is not going away anytime soon. 

Not only is it safer during these times, but people are realizing how much more intentional and intimate their event feels with a smaller group. We’re also seeing the trend of couples hosting multiple-day events so everyone can be included. 

Whether it’s an intimate ceremony with a larger reception the next day or a newlywed celebration with friends and family after the wedding, there are creative ways to accommodate intimate settings while still being able to celebrate with all the people who are important to the couple.

Detailed and elevated place settings

Couples who host a smaller, more intimate event often want their guests to walk in and feel like they’ve been transported to a different world full of grace and elegance.

There’s an emphasis on enhancing and elevating the guest experience, which means paying particular attention to the table settings. Beautiful floral centerpieces, sparkling candles, and extravagant linens matching the overall color scheme create that warm and inviting feeling.

Satin dresses

Throughout this past year and continuing into 2023, we’ve seen satin dresses become more popular for bridesmaids and even the bride. Some of our brides at de Vasco’s Daughters have chosen to wear satin slip dresses during their reception to make it easier to dance the night away. 

We’re seeing brides select sexier and sleeker silhouettes and simple elegance over the more traditional ballroom gowns. Jenny Yoo, BHLDN, and Amsala are a few brands that carry a wider range of satin dresses.

Upgraded stationery

Stationery, save-the-date cards, and invitations are the first looks into the couple’s love story—often featuring a picture of the engaged couple. It sets the tone for the entire wedding experience. 

Save-the-date cards are usually sent out first to make sure the guests have plenty of time to plan their attendance. Invitations communicate the details of the wedding and should include the dress code, food options, transportation, and accommodation choices.

And don’t forget the RSVP card, email link, or QR code for the wedding website where guests can RSVP online. Day-of stationery consists of signage at the ceremony along with information on other events. This could also include menus, drink signs, escort cards, seating charts, wedding programs, and more.

Historically unpopular dates

Due to COVID, we’ve started to see a trend of scheduling weddings during traditionally unpopular dates. Before the pandemic, the busiest wedding season was from May to September. 

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a rise in the popularity of September and October weddings. Now, the more unpopular dates are between November and April, but with the increasing number of postponements and new engagements, many couples are choosing to get married in these less popular months.

We’re also seeing a rise in weddings held on Fridays and Sundays instead of the majority being held on Saturdays. Many couples are also choosing to have their event on a weekday with Mondays and Thursdays being the most common unpopular dates. 

Holding a wedding on these unpopular dates can be more cost-effective as vendors are more willing to give price breaks to couples since they’re less likely to be booked. Couples may also see more availability at otherwise booked-out wedding venues. 

Pre-wedding cocktails

A fun addition to the wedding is celebrating the pre-wedding cocktail, especially for summer weddings. Enjoying a refreshing cocktail—such as a margarita, mojito, or other unique signature drink—while watching the couple say “I do” is an extra fun touch for guests on an already special day.

Statement details

Similar to the trends of elaborate stationery and elevated place settings, we’re also seeing more couples gravitate toward statement details. Think of eye-catching hanging installations, mood lighting, or garden-style florals.

Some couples might choose different escort systems or seating charts while others might envision a moss champagne wall! As wedding planners, we have the unique opportunity to bring these statement details to life.

What wedding trends are on your radar for 2023?

What trend do you want to see more of in the new year? We’d love to hear your responses in the comment section below or on Instagram. You can find us at @devascosdaughters.