Clandeblog 10 top wedding trends for 2024

Discover the latest wedding trends for 2024 with insights from our expert wedding team!

With the ever-evolving world of wedding trends, it can feel like a whirlwind trying to keep up. We've got you covered as our wedding team provide you with their wedding trends of 2024, inspired by the latest shifts they have been noticing at Clandeboye Lodge.

1. Alternative wedding venues

A ceremony setup in a beautiful wedding venue in Northern Ireland. — Blackwood Suite at Clandeboye Lodge

The wedding venue is the heart of your wedding day. The trend towards unique venues in Northern Ireland is motivated by couples desiring a more personal and intimate setting for their special day. Our 19th-century Ballysallagh schoolhouse, with its rich history and distinctive character, offers a memorable setting that stands out from traditional venues. We like to say we're the perfect alternative!

2. Sustainable weddings

A bride holding faux flowers at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Natasha's faux floral arrangement, Angel Photography & Film

Sustainable weddings are about making thoughtful choices that reduce environmental impact. From sustainable wedding stationary to eco-friendly confetti, couples are increasingly choosing eco-conscious options for their wedding day. We're proud to support this wedding trend with our commitment to sustainability. Whether you wish to craft a fully plant-based wedding menu or need guidance on eco-friendly choices, our team is dedicated to help you have a greener wedding! We also take pride in our fully decorated wedding suites, eliminating the need for single-use decorations.

3. First look moments

A bride and groom first look moment at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Helen & Michael's first look moment, Mark Barnes Photography

The 'first look' offers a private, emotional moment before the whirlwind of the day begins. It's a modern twist on tradition, allowing couples to ease their nerves and spend a few quiet moments together. At Clandeboye Lodge, we can offer a dedicated area in our beautifully landscaped gardens for your photographer to capture this intimate moment.

4. Local, seasonal wedding menu

A chef preparing a salad at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Local, seasonal wedding food

More couples are opting for local, seasonal produce for their wedding food menu, emphasising freshness and reducing carbon footprint. The chefs at Clandeboye Lodge are experts in preparing a selection of locally-sourced, balanced and beautifully presented dishes from local Northern Irish farms and suppliers.

5. Extended wedding celebrations

A wedding dinner setup at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Private dinner setup in the Blackwood suite

Extended wedding celebrations are becoming more popular as couples look to create an unforgettable experience for their guests. Our Blackwood suite offers a stunning setting for a pre-wedding meal the night before your big day. Or for a more relaxed gathering, book a table in our Coq & Bull brasserie. Plus, guests can easily stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in the celebration.

6. Unique wedding favours

Edible chocolate lolly wedding favours at a wedding venue in Northern Ireland — Edible wedding favours

In 2024, expect wedding favours that go beyond the traditional keepsakes. We're seeing a lot of personalised gifts and edible favours such as locally-sourced artisanal treats. There's also a growing trend towards charity wedding favours, allowing couples to donate to a cause close to their hearts.

7. Unique food and drink experiences

A prosecco wall at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Prosecco wall provided by Champagne Memories

At Clandeboye Lodge we’re noticing an increase in unique food and drink experiences at wedding receptions. From pimp-your-prosecco and s’mores stations to sweetie stations and doughnut walls, we’ve seen some gorgeous setups which look stunning in our wedding suites and outdoor terrace areas. Check out our other blog for more unique supplier inspiration.

8. All-inclusive wedding venues

A stylish bedroom suite at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — The Ultra-luxe Suite at Clandeboye Lodge

More couples are choosing all inclusive wedding venues in Northern Ireland that offer the wedding ceremony, reception and on-site accommodation all in the one place. This trend focuses on a seamless experience, where guests can stay and enjoy without worrying about travel. At Clandeboye Lodge we offer your ceremony, reception and our separate hotel building has 42 bedrooms for your guests.

9. Embracing individuality

Personalised glass holders at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Meg & Lauren's personalised glass holders, Gillian Higgins Photography

We’re seeing more weddings that truly reflect the unique personalities of each couple. We believe that your wedding should be as unique as you are! That's why we love helping couples add their own personal touch to their big day. Our team at Clandeboye Lodge is all about making sure your wedding really feels like it's yours, celebrating your unique love story!

10. Photo backdrops & displays

A wedding cake on a swing table with a neon sign at a Wedding Venue Northern Ireland — Neon sign cake backdrop in the Clandeboye Suite

Photo backdrops have been popular over the past few years, but we predict this will continue into 2024. These backdrops have become a central aspect of wedding decor, offering not just a place for memorable photographs but also adding to the overall ambiance of the event. We're predicting to see a variety of creative backdrops, including personalised neon signs, elegant floral arches and creative cake displays!

Whether you follow the latest trends or set your own, we embrace individuality to ensure your wedding day is a true reflection of you. Book a wedding showaround and you'll understand exactly why a wedding at Clandeboye Lodge is so very special!