Ahead of next weekend’s Lake District Wedding Fair, organisers of the showpiece event say eco-friendly weddings are just one of the big themes emerging for 2020.

This year’s event this weekend includes a range of exhibitors, from wedding venues like Roundthorn Country House and North Lakes Hotel and Spa to suppliers such as Carlisle’s Stonehouse Smokery and Keswick-based Wilde and Romantic’s vintage styling service.

It will also feature a ‘Natural Wedding Zone’ to help inspire couples looking for greener ways of tying the knot.

Natural Cumbria weddings manager Annabel Candler has helped to arrange the 2020 event and will be holding two informal sessions on both days, offering practical tips and support to help couples to plan their weddings.

Annabel says: “People are becoming more aware of their actions and the consequences for the environment. I feel the movement is getting stronger each year and 2020 will see a huge rise in this for the industry.

“Even minor changes can make a huge difference. Think local, no waste, hiring not buying and recycling. If you choose a local caterer, for example, they are traveling less to get to you and supporting the local economy.

“When looking at decorating your venue, what can you find to hire? Buying from overseas then having to sell them off afterwards increases your carbon footprint. There are some wonderful options locally, so research who is being green and think about whether the decisions you make feel ethical.

“Sustainability is a powerful trend which is set to grow massively, but there are also some lovely ideas such as quirky bridal wear. Brides are experimenting with suits or more day-dress styles which I find very exciting. Holistic elements are becoming popular too, such as certain scents, energy healing, hen spa trips and crystals.

“Generally, weddings are becoming an event where anything is possible. Traditions being tailored and ideas generated from the personalities involved. I feel this is such a great way of looking at it. I advise my clients to think about them as a couple, make sure it’s obvious this is your wedding, not just a box-ticking exercise!”

Annabel also says family-style dining is a popular trend: “This is where instead of a plated meal per person, there are bowls and platters per table. I love this as then each guest can eat what and as much as they like.

“As for the food, caterers are having to be clever in creating wider options for dietary requirements – a good caterer can take it on with ease!”

n The Lake District Wedding Fair takes place on Saturday and Sunday in the Exhibition Hall at the J36 Rural Auction Centre. Visitors should register online to attend the free event at www.lakedistrictweddingfair.co.uk/visitingtheshow