Key trends for styling small but impactful events in 2021
As we begin to emerge out of lockdown restrictions the need to connect with other human beings feels more important than ever. Gatherings will happen and there will be an emphasis on the need for comfort and nostalgia in the year ahead. Smaller more intimate weddings and events will allow you to focus on these values and offer the opportunity to create unforgettable guest experiences for those you care about the most.
Colour Sets the Tone
2021 brings an overall theme of warm, serene colours, from soft pastel tones, to calm greys and gentle blues, colours that connect back to nature and the simple things. Creating an event where everyone feels relaxed should be your entertaining ethos. A natural base is calm and comfortable but do be sure to add in unexpected fresh doses of colour and statement hues to add individuality and cheerfulness. This year’s colour trend, buttercup yellow, expresses optimism and positivity. Bringing bold colours to linens, centerpieces, glassware and china will add vitality and a punch of personality to your event.
Inspirational Interior Trends
The design and style for weddings and events will always be shaped by current interior trends. Lockdown seems to have accelerated a return to more traditional and simplistic living. Eco chic is a trend that reflects our concern with environmental issues. Maintaining an environmentally conscious home is more important than ever, it plays to our desire for connection to the natural world. As our commitment to sustainability grows, we will see more events incorporating, vintage, refurbished or antique furniture and decor. Well-loved original items, or classic heritage pieces are beautiful and practical without having a harmful impact on the planet. Adding in a few luxurious elements such as rich fabrics and statement lighting help to keep the look balanced and up to date.
Sustainability
Large scale events can take days to put together and those with the environment on their minds will be aware that these events can have a large carbon footprint.
Current restrictions mean people are planning smaller events, but many are now hosting reduced guest numbers by choice and planning in favour of more sustainable options. As international travel remains uncertain, people are more reluctant to travel lengthy distances and the focus on local and regional destinations is growing in popularity. Staying local means you can support small businesses and work with suppliers who align with your values. From organic farmers, florists who work with UK-grown, seasonal flowers, small vineyards, and field-to-fork caterers, most regions are blooming with talented suppliers. By choosing local you are helping to reduce your event’s environmental impact and putting money back into the local economy.
Craft
Tapping into our desire to be simplistic and feel grounded, has brought about a renewed focus on craft. In conjunction with conscious consumerism comes the desire to express ourselves through simple designs, traditional textiles, understated furniture and natural materials. Crafting your own decor and adding handmade touches feels warm and nostalgic. The natural world has huge appeal, you can use elements that are found in nature in your decoration: tree branches, seed pods, leaves and berries, dried flowers, driftwood, shells, stones, these are easy to find and will add character to your event. Include natural fabrics that have a handmade appeal, raw slubby silks, cotton linens, natural wools and heavy weaves to create cosiness. Prints and items with a traditional artisan look will add interest and simple designs that combine well with rustic furniture are the key to creating a natural ambience with a nod to minimalism.
