TABLE SETTING |
INTERVIEW WITH YARA ESTEPHAN ON WEDDING TRENDS AND BESPOKE PLANNING
In the world of event planning, few names shine as brightly as Yara Estephan. Based in both Beirut and Dubai, Yara has built a reputation for creating unforgettable, bespoke events that blend elegance with personal touches. With an eye for detail and a flair for innovation, she has transformed weddings and events into immersive experiences, capturing the hearts of clients across the region. Today, Yara shares her insights on the latest wedding trends, the evolution of celebrations, and how she balances modernity with tradition to craft each unique occasion.
What are the top wedding trends you’re seeing this year, and how are they influencing couples’ choices?
This year, weddings are all about personalization and experience-driven celebrations. Couples want their big day to reflect their unique personalities while creating meaningful connections with their guests. There’s a noticeable shift towards smaller, more intimate gatherings, with many opting for weekend celebrations or destination weddings, even within Lebanon. Choosing locations further from the city allows guests to stay overnight, extending the festivities with a brunch or pool day the next morning.
When it comes to décor, modern and minimalist aesthetics are taking over, steering away from traditional setups. The emphasis is on a fun, party-like atmosphere with free seating, often incorporating high tables for a chic, club-like vibe. This trend is influencing everything from venue selection to décor and entertainment choices. Guesthouses and clubs are gaining popularity, breaking away from the conventional ballroom setting. After-parties with a dedicated DJ in a new location are also on the rise, keeping the celebration alive late into the night.
How have wedding trends evolved over the past few years, and what do you think is driving these changes?
Wedding trends have evolved significantly in recent years, and a few factors are driving these changes:
- The pandemic led many to prefer smaller, more intimate weddings.
- Social media’s influence provides couples with endless inspiration, encouraging them to experiment with new ideas.
- There is also a growing demand for unique, immersive experiences, with technology playing a key role in incorporating interactive elements that engage guests throughout the event.
Are there any particular styles, themes, or colors that are especially popular this year?
Wedding styles and color palettes are often influenced by fashion and interior design trends, but they remain deeply personal choices. This year’s Pantone color, ‘Transparent,’ has been a favorite, making its way into wedding furniture, prints, and accessories. While minimalist, modern aesthetics are trending, the overall look is always tailored to reflect the couple’s personalities and preferences.
How do you incorporate trends while still ensuring each wedding is unique and personal to the couple?
Trends do play a role, but the focus is always on the couple’s vision for their day. Our approach blends the couple’s personalities and preferences with current trends to create a personal and memorable celebration. Every wedding is unique because it reflects the couple’s tastes. Trends are used to enhance, rather than overshadow, the personal touches that make each wedding special.
What advice do you have for couples who want to blend traditional elements with modern trends in their wedding?
I encourage couples to combine traditional elements with modern trends, as it creates a beautiful balance that adds depth to the wedding. For my Lebanese clients, incorporating the traditional zaffe infuses cultural energy into the celebration. This becomes especially memorable for multicultural couples or when there are many non-Lebanese guests. Including traditional touches, such as in the food or pre-wedding activities, adds authenticity and makes the day even more unforgettable.
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