Although the 2021 wedding season proves to look a little different than years past, there are still countless special ways to celebrate your love this year in one of the world’s most spectacular destinations.Blending the necessary precautions with elegance and style, several unique wedding trends have arisen to meet the times, lending themselves to an unforgettable event in 2021. Here’s a look at some of the year’s top wedding ideas as observed by Gabriella Murgia, Events & Groups Manager for Il Sereno, Villa Pliniana, and Le Sereno St. Barths.

Fresh Air Affair One of the biggest trends for the upcoming season is gathering outdoors. “Guests want to be outside as much as possible,” says Murgia. “No more talks on indoor receptions or big projects; it’s all about chic marquees in the garden or cruising Lake Como on our Riva boats.” Especially at Il Sereno and Villa Pliniana, tying the breathtaking natural surroundings into the festivities is very popular — all the time, but especially in 2021. “That can mean anything from taking a boat tour around the lake while toasting to the newlyweds, or organizing a brunch party the day after the wedding in our beautiful gardens overlooking the lake and mountains,” Murgia says. Less is More Another major trend for this year is minimalism. Most couples have had to reduce the size of their wedding parties due to travel restrictions, even with the increase in vaccinations, and this has naturally made the events more intimate in nature. “Couples now are more focused on being able to reconnect with loved ones after a long time apart, and are opting for more simple rather than lavish celebrations,” says Murgia. “The number of weddings aren’t changing — people are still planning their big day — but we are definitely seeing smaller parties and guest lists.” Another new trend influenced by the pandemic: Livestreaming the celebration so that guests who can’t travel can still be involved.

Vibrant Colors In terms of floral design, green and white has been the palette of choice for couples getting married over the past several years, but no longer. “Couples are now choosing more rich, fall-like tones, like burnt orange, deep burgundy, and vibrant purple,” Murgia says. Look for arrangements featuring vibrant orchids, roses, chrysanthemums, zinnias, anemones, veronica, peonies, calla lilies, and lisianthus, she suggests. Extra-Long Weekends Another change compared to years past is the trend of planning a four- or five-day event so that friends and family can fully savor their time together. “Plan a long weekend so everyone can just relax and enjoy the time with loved ones,” Murgia says. “We have you covered for everything! At Il Sereno and Villa Pliniana, we will provide anything you and your guests need for your special day and throughout your stay: five-star service, a chef on property to cook delicious meals every day, and a concierge team that will book activities for you. Also, we have plenty of outdoor activities you can enjoy while on the lake.” As you plan your big day, whether with us or elsewhere, we wish you and yours all the best. May your special day be filled with joy, love, and ample time spent with friends and family.