What destination weddings will look like in 2023

Trends may come and go but your love is here to stay! We are so happy to have been able to bring destination wedding dreams to life for couples in 2022 and if we can be so bold to say, it was a great year. As we nestle into the winter season and the year comes to a close, we’re looking ahead at the new and exciting direction for destination weddings that both you and your guests will love. If you’re planning your nuptials for 2023 and considering a change in scenery (literally), read on and get a sneak peek at what weddings in paradise will look like.

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Wedding inspo in the palm of your hand

We are truly living in the digital age! Social media has been one of the biggest sources of inspiration for couples planning their nuptials with Instagram and Pinterest leading the way, but 2023 brings a new contender – it’s the year of TikTok! Not just an app for dance trends, couples are giving us an inside look at their weddings and wedding planners are taking us behind the scenes, helping give the soon to be wed a better idea of what their options are. Our own social media team has noticed that brides and grooms are loving content that revolves around aesthetically pleasing ceremonies, keeping weddings stylish and timeless – something to keep in mind during your planning process!

Say ‘I do’ to papa-paparazzi photos

We’re the biggest fans of this new trend in wedding photography! Harking back to the wildly popular flash photography and disposable camera phase from the 90s, more and more couples are asking for high-key, bright flash pictures of their reception. Wedding photographers with an editorial edge are pushing for more of these shots, focusing on all things candid for your big day. This style of photography is great at capturing the life, joy and excitement of receptions, especially and when you match that with the incredible backdrop of your chosen paradise, and each shot will be like something you see on the cover of your fave celeb gossip magazine.

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Work hard, honeymoon harder

We’re glass half full people here, and the silver lining through lockdowns was more remote work possibilities. In 2023, couples that have the option to work remote can take advantage and extend their honeymoon well after their wedding week. They can host their wedding at their chosen resort and enjoy paradise at their leisure at participating resorts, offering 14, 21 and 28-day packages in the fan favourite destinations of Punta Cana, Cancun, Negril and Varadero! When you’re not in meetings and answering emails, take in incredible performances, enjoy coastal views on a catamaran cruise, unwind with a spa day for two – paradise is your oyster! Plus, these resorts offer free wedding and honeymoon packages (terms and conditions apply).

Green goes with everything

What continues to top the trend charts for destination weddings in 2023 is eco-friendly celebrations. Two of the biggest opportunities for couples looking to keep it green is with their wedding day wear and décor. Vintage is all the rage right now, so why not opt for a vintage wedding dress or suit? Designers are also leaning green with wear and wear again collections for wedding couples, like pantsuits, removable floor-length skirts, shortened tops and formal wear that they can pair with their everyday wardrobe. Save on your budget and natural resources by hosting your ceremony in naturally beautiful locations like your resort’s beach or lush, tropical garden and opt for flower petals or biodegradable confetti for your wedding walk.

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Big memories come in small parties

The next wave in destination weddings is the micro-wedding! With less guests in attendance, you can make memories you’ll cherish long after the big day and ensure that you can spend quality time with all of your invited friends and family. Couples are focusing on making their wedding week a big blow-out event instead of just a one-day celebration in paradise and what better way to do that than with Sunwing Experiences excursions! With smaller wedding parties, you’ll be able to save on catering and rental budgets and put that towards making your big day even BIGGER with ornate wedding arches, band and DJ, elevated menus and custom cocktails – it’s your day, so do it your way!