Photo courtesy of Sun Mountain Lodge
Beyond tradition THE TREND IN 2023 IS TOWARD INDIVIDUALITY IN CEREMONIES By Sandra Strieby
A
s pandemic restrictions loosened, wedding numbers boomed in 2022. This year promises to be almost as popular for tying the knot, with predications calling for nearly two and a quarter
Valley Vows 2023
million weddings in the U.S. If you’re among those planning a ceremony for 2023, here are some trends to explore. MEANINGFUL CHOICES If there’s one trend on which everyone agrees, it’s individuality. More and more couples are planning weddings that reflect their
personalities and values “People are really trying to be as authentic as they possibly can in every way around their weddings and what people experience,” said Kier Matthews, director of sales and marketing at Sun Mountain Lodge. That desire to value meaning over tradition plays out in many of the choices that reflect what’s significant to the couple — location and officiant, music and clothing, décor and photography. A growing number of couples are also choosing to have friends and family members officiate at their
weddings. Someone who knows you well may be able to create a particularly personal and intimate ceremony; if you choose that route, be sure to understand both Washington’s law and Okanogan County’s requirements, and investigate the long-term ramifications. Wedding attire has always been important, and couples are exercising more choice than they’ve enjoyed since Queen Victoria’s day. Color is showing up — not just in bridesmaids’ dresses, but in the couple’s clothes, as well. A sand-colored suit or a flowered
7