Month: January 2022

There’s no doubt that the pandemic has changed weddings in a number of ways, and that includes Irish wedding dress trends. In 2021 it was all about pared-back looks for low-key minimonies, including shorter dresses and separates. At the same time, months spent at home have made couples focus on what they truly want. This, too, is reflected on the latest bridal runways. Designers have never been more about personal expression. The catwalks at New York Bridal Fashion Week in October were an exciting mix of the old and the new, the traditional and the bold. The ultimate takeaway was that there’s a look for every bride, whatever her style.

Even amongst all this variety, however, there were a few 2022 bridal fashion trends that stood out and these are the ones that brides across the globe will be wearing next year. Here are the Irish wedding dress trends coming to a salon near you soon.

Corsets

If you love Regency styling, then this is the 2022 wedding dress trend for you! Bridgerton-inspired corset bodices and visible boning detail are a key look for next year. They’re the perfect blend of vintage and modern and just happen to be super flattering too. Structured bodices support the bust and cinch the waist, creating that perfect hourglass look. But, while the look is definitely sexy, it’s really all about old world elegance and regal glamour. Perfect for a grand celebration at an Irish castle wedding venue!

Prominent florals

Floral elements aren’t new in bridal but they’re getting bolder and more prominent for 2022. Irish wedding dress trends will include floral motifs, prints, embroidery, and 3D blooms. There’s something so joyous and hopeful about seeing this among the 2022 Irish wedding dress trends. It’s all about new life, romance, and celebration. Just what we need after the last two years!

Mini dresses

Short dresses were a go-to option for minimony brides last year. For 2022, designers are running with the look and raising hemlines, for brides who are ready to celebrate! These are real party dresses but they aren’t just for rehearsal dinners and after parties. Add a veil and you’re ceremony-ready. Bridal mini dresses also show a playful spirit and a willingness to take traditional bridal and make it uniquely you. Plus, they’re a great way to show off a pair of gorgeous shoes!

Cutouts

Perfect for a confident contemporary bride, cutouts are another big bridal trend for 2022. Designers are showing little peeks of skin, from based midriffs to back slits, to tasteful peekaboo detailing. It’s a great way to make a simple silhouette fresh and unique.

Versatile transitional pieces

Again, inspired by the direction taken during the pandemic, bridal designers are embracing bridal separates in a whole new way. This is all about pieces that can work across different parts of the wedding or different wedding events and even remain in a bride’s wardrobe after the big day. Think detachable details, tailored pant suits and jumpsuits, capes, jackets, crop tops, and overskirts. The possibilities are endless!

Which of these 2022 wedding dress trends do you find most appealing?

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Story of Eve

Planning a destination wedding in 2022? Then you’ve come to the right place! There are many wonderful reasons to opt for a wedding in a faraway destination, but they do have some challenges at the best of times. Throw in two years of COVID cancellations and shutdowns and that’s an understatement! And yet, as travel restrictions have started to ease, hope is on the horizon. Even taking into account a few unexpected obstacles and false starts in 2021, we fully expect to see destination weddings making a comeback in 2022. People are hungry for the things they have missed like travel and celebration – and what better place to find both than at a destination wedding!

Whether you’re newly engaged or have been planning a destination wedding in 2022 for a while, now is the time to get on track. Here are a few of my top tips!

Don’t wait to start planning

As weddings have opened up again, you may have noticed local venues and vendors have started to book up fast. That’s also true if you’re planning a destination wedding in 2022. Destination weddings that have been postponed are being rescheduled, while some local weddings are being shifted to destination ones. It’s a situation that will be with us for a while. So when you find a venue you love or a vendor whose work resonates with you, don’t hesitate to book.

Hire a destination wedding planner

Whether you’re planning your destination wedding in Ireland or somewhere else, the whole process will be that much smoother if you have an expert heading up your team. A good local wedding planner will know all the best vendors and can make recommendations based on first-hand experience. They’ll also be up-to-date on any local COVID or travel restrictions and can help you make a Plan B if anything changes.

Do your research and keep guests in the loop

Even if you hire a great destination wedding planner, it’s always a good idea to do your research on local restrictions (as well as rules and regulations for getting married there). And don’t keep all that learning to yourself! Keeping your guests in the loop is an essential part of successful destination wedding planning. For example, you could set up a wedding website with updated info on arrival dates, accommodation, and activities, as well as COVID safety procedures and policies. It’s also important to create a communication plan just in case anything major changes.

Read the small print

Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to thoroughly review any contracts, terms and conditions, and insurance policies. Especially those relating to COVID! Make sure you understand exactly what is due when, and what the procedure is in case of any postponements. If you have any questions, don’t be shy about speaking up!

Plan for unexpected costs

A wedding emergency fund is always a good idea, but especially so for a 2022 wedding. There are the usual hidden costs like vendor tips, airport transfers, shipping and oversize baggage costs, etc. But there are also specific costs arising from the pandemic. For example, food and beverage costs (which are likely to rise), or décor which may have had supply chain issues.

Are you planning a destination wedding in 2022?

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Kieran Harnett, Lisa O’Dwyer, Aspect Photography