Bethan Davies from Celtic Manor Resort shares her insight on what's set to be hot in the wedding market for 2019

Bethan Davies, senior executive of special occasions at Celtic Manor Resort, shares her insight on what's set to be hot in the wedding market for 2019.

"This year, Celtic Manor Resort hosted a grand total of 96 weddings. As a special occasions planner at the resort, it's a privilege to be involved in these couples' special days and it's always exciting to see how trends emerge and evolve.

This year pop-up 'pimp your prosecco' bars and flower walls have made regular appearances, however, in 2019 this is all set to change. Here are our predictions for top trends for the year ahead.

Eco-weddings
The Blue Planet effect has seen increased consumer engagement with environmental issues and we're seeing couples considering more eco-friendly options for their big day. Princess Eugenie went plastic-free on her big day and where the royals tread, others follow!

Gin-spiration
If 2018 was the year of popping the prosecco, 2019 is set to be the year of gin-spiration! From infused gin wedding favours to hiring a mobile 'gin tin', we anticipate high demand for new and unusual twists on this juniper-based tipple at weddings next year.

Out with the photo-booth and in with the mirror selfie
The photo booth has been a firm favourite for many years – giving guests a personal memento to take away with them, as a reminder of the day. However, now with the evolution of tech, couples are looking for exciting ways to capture these special moments and make them easy to share on social channels. From geo-targeted social media filters to virtual mirrors, the possibilities are almost endless!

Bringing nature indoors
We've seen this trend emerging throughout this year, with floral displays being front and centre of many of our weddings. In 2019 we'll see this taken to the next level with the line between indoors and outdoors blurring as couples choose to incorporate nature in their big day. We're not just talking bouquets and floral halos, but instead grasses and other foliage being heavily featured in wedding décor!

Breaking the mould
The best part of my job is making sure that everyone's special day is unique. One of my highlights from the past year was a Harry Potter themed wedding and next year we're anticipating the rise of brides-men and groom-girls! I'm sure we'll see some spectacular themed weddings in the year ahead as well as surprising developments across the whole industry. It's what keeps our job fresh and exciting!"

To find out more, visit www.celtic-manor.com