Posts Tagged: Carey Nash Photographer
10 Wedding Trends We’re Vibing in 2023
What’s hot for wedding trends this year? We’re sharing elements you can incorporate into your 2023 or 2024 wedding to stay current and wow your guests!
1. Statement Signage
Whether it’s a welcome sign, a seating chart or an escort card display, a statement piece at the entrance of your event sets the tone as guests arrive. Their interest is piqued and they’re excited to head inside to see what’s next.
Left: JBW | Right: Tomasz Wagner
2. Petite Wedding Parties
We love the simplicity of having only one or two of your besties stand up for you. The benefits of a smaller bridal party? Fewer people to coordinate and cost savings for attire, beauty services, flowers – even transportation!
Top: Carey Nash | Bottom: Nicole Ashley
3. Live Music
Live music adds an ambiance that recorded music cannot replicate. For our clients weddings, we try to incorporate live music during at least one portion of the day – whether it’s for the ceremony, cocktails, during dinner or the party.
Top: Nicole Ashley
Bottom L: Carey Nash, Bottom R: Retrospekt Photography
4. Ikebana Inspired Florals
Ikebana is a Japanese art of floral arrangement that has seen recent resurgence in popularity. We love ikebana style arrangements as they are minimalist and graceful.
Photo: Fragment of Light
5. Fashion
If you’re donning a traditional wedding gown during the day, why not have some fun with a fashion-forward cocktail dress for the reception or dance? We’re loving puffy sleeves, oversized bows, removable capes and sheer detailing.
Top: Bryttanni | Bottom: Etoroma Creative
6. Delicate Greenery
Thick greenery runners have had their moment. We still love greens, but we’re using them more sparingly for a dainty, refined look. We’re also saying sayonara to mountains of eucalyptus! We want to see greenery in a true green colour, or green and white varigated leaves for a romantic, garden vibe.
Photos: Nikki Collette Photography
7. Luxe Craft Cocktails
Step it up from standard sparkling and treat your guests to an expertly crafted cocktail upon arrival. Old Fashioneds are still fan favourites, but we also love tequila or gin-based beverages. Don’t forget to have something special on hand for those guests who prefer spirit-free drinks.
Top: Nicole Ashley | Bottom L: Blushed Beaute, Bottom R: Mango Studios
8. Waste Conscious Events
It seems silly to call this a trend, but we want to draw attention to the waste created by events, and get you thinking about how you can make your wedding more sustainable. Our top tips:
- Say NO to plastic cups, straws and disposable water bottles (anything single use, really).
- Rent instead of purchase.
- Source locally whenever possible – this includes food, décor and flowers.
Photo: Nicole Ashley
9. Bright Blooms
Don’t get us wrong – we’re all about timeless, elegant neutrals – but colour adds so much life to events! Even if you want to stay mostly neutral, try adding a splash of colour where guests may not expect it: table stationery, a statement arrangement in the cocktail reception space, or your DJ booth for the dance party.
Top: Etoroma Creative | Bottom: Kelsy Nielson
10. Mix Up The Menu
99% of the weddings your guests have attended served a soup or salad, followed by a main course and then dessert. Why not mix it up and surprise them with a unique style of service or unexpected courses? Try tapas style family service, or a charcuterie appetizer followed by pasta, a main and a trio of desserts – we guarantee your guests will be raving about their culinary experience at your event!
Photos: Retrospekt Photography
+ + + + + + + + + + +
Team JBW | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planners, Edmonton Wedding Designers
Unique Wedding Venues in Edmonton
With the New Year just around the corner, we know a lot of newly engaged couples will be scouring the city for the perfect venue. What better time to shine a light on some of Edmonton’s most unique wedding and event venues?
Transformation Potential: Art Gallery of Alberta
This architectural stunner in the heart of Edmonton’s downtown can host all your wedding events, making it a convenient option for couples looking to streamline their day. Begin with a romantic ceremony in the theatre, enjoy cocktails and urban views on the 3rd floor terrace, then host a delicious dinner catered by Zinc on the main level in Manning Hall. Offer your guests a unique wedding favour by providing access to the exhibits. Most comfortable for 180 attendees.
{Gem in the River Valley: Edmonton Country Club
You don’t need to be a member of Edmonton’s first private golf and country club to host an event at this historic property. The dramatic views of the river valley and city skyline provide an ideal setting for momentous celebrations. Your guests can order their entrée at the wedding – no need to request meal selections in advance. Having a summer fete? Hold your dance outdoors on the patio under a tent! Best suited for 150 guests.
{Warehouse Vibe: Yellowhead Brewery
Beer lovers take note! Yellowhead Brewery has quickly become a favourite Edmonton venue for those seeking an intimate, non-traditional space. Exposed brick and wooden beams offer character and warmth with little décor required. Perfect for couples who love to celebrate, the festivities can continue until 3:00am after a 2:00am bar closure. Holds up to 100 guests for a seated meal.
{Grandeur in West Edmonton: Oasis Centre
With impeccable service comparable to that of a 5-star hotel, the Oasis Centre has developed an outstanding reputation as one of Edmonton’s top wedding and event venues. Luxurious finishes including marble pillars, rose quartz chandeliers and 24 ftceilings are highlights among couples who favour timeless elegance on their big day. Bring your favourite caterer and bar selections, and enjoy the beautiful outdoor gardens for photos or cocktail hour. Suitable for up to 350 guests.
Dramatic Blank Slate: ATB Financial Arts Barns
Located in Edmonton’s popular Old Strathcona area just off Whyte Avenue, the Arts Barns’ Westbury Theatre offers a unique setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Built-in lighting capabilities and dramatic theatre backdrops provide intriguing ambiance and make this venue a favourite for creative visionaries. Bookings include a highly skilled in-house technician to operate the theatrical lighting. Another plus? Bring your favourite caterer. Best suited for under 200 guests.
{Rustic & Cozy: Old Timers’ Cabin
With a log cabin feel, Old Timers’ Cabin is perfect for couples after the ‘shabby chic’ theme. Hire your favourite caterer and bring in your own bar selections for a personalized food and beverage experience. Conveniently located near downtown, guests have ample options for nearby accommodation and transportation. Keep your guest count under 200 for a seated dinner and dance.
{Summer Lovin’: Blatchford Hangar at Fort Edmonton Park
Set in historic Fort Edmonton, the Blatchford Hangar’s tall wood beam ceilings and concrete floors give this space a trendy warehouse vibe. The large hangar doors open up to an expansive green space, making it a perfect venue for summer weddings. No B-list required – the Hangar accommodates up to 450 guests.
{Best View: Shaw Riverview Room / Shaw Hall D
With floor to ceiling windows, Shaw Conference Centre’s Riverview Room (cap: 130) and Hall D (cap: 1000) offer stunning views of Edmonton’s river valley, providing a gorgeous backdrop in every season. Clean lines and modern styling make Shaw’s spaces easy to personalize with décor, and you can have a corkage bar for weddings (a huge plus, especially for larger celebrations).
{As featured via a collaboration with ExploreEdmonton.com.
+ + + + + + + + + + +
Jennifer + Team | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planning + Design