What. A. Year. Amiright?! As we approach engagement season, I thought it would only be appropriate to share a few trends I’ve been seeing with my COVID brides – the ones keeping the hope alive and continuing on the wedding planning journey.

This year has been difficult for most (to say the least!), so a little positive energy is just what the doctor ordered. And what better way to spread love (and not the Rona…), than thinking about the festive bash your wedding will be? 

Ok, let’s jump into things!

Face Masks

These are the new wedding accessories that most people aren’t leaving home without. Unfortunately, these don’t always go with one’s outfit or one’s plans. However, by incorporating these into their weddings as gifts for their wedding party and party favors for guests,  brides are definitely making the most of things! I think it's a fresh way to utilize your wedding color and/or theme. Plus, it might just come in handy for those who happen to forget theirs at home! 

Incorporating Family Heritage 

I love, love, love this one! For example, if you're Italian, have your caterer/resort throw your Nonna’s famous pasta dish onto the menu, or include your favorite family ingredient into the mix. Keep it personal and pay homage to your roots. 

Going Eco-CHIC

More and more couples are upcycling and pledging to commit to an eco-friendly wedding by sharing the venue, decor, and also getting rid of all the plastic including those pesky straws most resorts have already gotten rid of. Serving locally sourced meals and going meatless are also great ways of being green. If you aren’t ready to go that extreme, you can try digital save the dates and invites, and opt for a wedding website. Lastly, there are several resorts that have really set the bar high in their sustainability efforts. For example, Karisma, has their very own water filtration system, turtle farm, an onsite garden, and farm right on their properties.  

Skipping the Buffet

Why not uplevel your menu and make it a true experience. This is something my husband thinks he’s in charge of, aside from the music. To really give your menu the oomph it needs, try elevating your food stations with special elements. Ditch the buffets and set up a mixology bar with only unique cocktails that are native to your locale. How about an olive oil tasting? Really give your guests a foodgasm, and stand apart from your typical all-inclusive. One of our favorite luxury resorts with amazing food is the Grand Velas in Los Cabos, Mexico.

Giving up the traditional registry

Ok, I’ll admit it – we have more than enough stuff. Couples agree and that’s why they are skipping the Bed Bath & Beyond and instead replacing their traditional registry with one that actually benefits them! A few examples include: raising money for things you really want, like a new home (yes, we need that downpayment!) or donations to your favorite cause. Think about the clutter, and skip those typical kitchen goods. Some couples are even asking for wine and food susbcriptions. A few other ideas include a honeymoon wish list, art collection and experiences of a lifetime.

Although this year has definitely thrown us all for a loop, try to take the good with the bad. Think of all the stories you’ll tell your children or even grandchildren about your whirlwind year of wedding planning during a pandemic, and how you made that mask your fashion staple. Take this opportunity to really focus on what you want and then make it happen! 

Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.