10 Party Trends for 2023

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Happy New Year and welcome to 2023! Some of last year’s hot party trends are still going strong, especially as we move towards more social gatherings and events. The trend will continue moving toward more meaningful and immersive experiences.

Check out what I predict are going to be the hot 2023 party trends. As always, these are just suggestions.  If there is a trend that you absolutely must have (I see you, globe balloons…) and it works for you, by all means, carry on.

Anything Pantone Color of The Year

Anything PANTONE Color of the Year is always on the list.  Let’s give a warm 2023 welcome to this year’s Viva Magenta; “…vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement.”

This color is so ‘red meets pink meets purple’ and delightfully versatile, you can dress it up or down, from a lovely pop of color in your guests’ mailbox to inspiring outfits. These gorgeous Estelle colored wine glasses in Fuschia from West Elm elevate even your everyday table.

Barbiecore

At the other end of the red color spectrum, your favorite childhood doll is having a major moment everywhere…vibrant pink started taking center stage this past summer. With the highly-anticipated Barbie film slated to premiere in 2023, popping pink will dominate this year’s party scene, from accents to full pink-themed parties, expect this vibrant color to be everywhere this year. Check out this plastic fringe backdrop from one of my favorite Etsy shops, GlamFete by Bri.

Paper McLovin’

According to 2023 Pinterest Predicts, paper crafting will be making a comeback, and I agree! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or DIY newbie, it is always so fun to create something from scratch. From paper garlands and gift toppers to soup container witches, I love a party DIY. Crafting as a whole is coming back strong for 2023 party trends, from resin to macrame and punch needling.

Micro Events Are Still Strong

I predicted 2020’s rise of the micro event thanks to COVID and in some cases, not much has changed. From the rising popularity of micro weddings to micro catering, catering optimized for smaller groups, it is all about providing a unique, intimate celebration for those who can join.

There are a few ways to make a big impact with your tiny event; many unique locations unsuitable for large events are perfect for your smaller event and getting to splurge on what is most important to you are just a few ways to wow your guests. The Oliver, an event venue in Washington State, boasts supporting events of less than 25 guests.

Vertical Food Stations

A wall of food? Yes, please! Vertical food stations are a fun and unexpected way to catch your guests’ attention. It all started with doughnuts, but the sky’s the limit with what you serve. They are fully customizable and add depth and height to a display; after all, we eat with our eyes.

Martha Stewart shares a great roundup of 18 gorgeous setups, from pretzels and cupcakes to juice and spritzers. Check out Southern Events’ beverage wall, perfect for champagne toasts.

Non-alcoholic Beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages ruled 2022, especially non-alcoholic beers, like Athletic Brewing Company, and they’ll be even bigger in 2023. Mocktail bars are not a new idea…I’ve been creating them for years. They are a great way to show that you don’t have to drink alcohol to have fun at events. Have a talented friend or hire a bartender or mixologist to make and serve custom mocktails for guests.

Mushrooms Are Joining The Party

Mushrooms are having a moment…and we aren’t talking as an herbal refreshment. Sure, deep umami flavors are dominating as menus are trending toward more meat-free options. But we are also talking about mushroom décor.

From Lia Griffith’s tutorial for whimsical mushroom decor, glass mushroom bud vases, to disco ball versions, and a plethora of decor items at Joann, mushrooms have jumped off of plates and joined the party.

Earthy Palettes

Create a stylish desert vibe with a layered neutral color palette at your next event. Select a palette that includes colors like terra cotta and turmeric, to tan and eggshell white — then build interest with textures like linen, dried grass, and wood grain. Think boho chic vibes, like this gorgeous wedding featured on Wedding Chicks, to a birthday party filled with pampas grass, and event decor items like a balloon arch from Shein.

Going To The Dogs

Remember my 2020 prediction of pet celebrations on the rise? Thanks to COVID, parties went down, but pet ownership skyrocketed! I say, it is going to make a comeback this year, and Pinterest agrees! They predict that pool parties are going to the dogs—Gen X and Boomers don’t plan to hold back for their next pet pool party…Paws in the Pool, from invitations to party decor!

Milestone Moments Get Upgraded

I predicted 2022 would be all about milestone celebrations, new life chapters, and undercelebrated moments. While birthdays like 16, 21 and 75, are always classic, 2023 party trends will be all about expanding the birthday bash horizons. 10-year birthdays like Dirty 30s and Fabulous 40s have been growing in popularity. Who says you have to limit the years worth celebrating? I’m turning 49 this year and have been toying with the idea of a Farewell to My 40’s Party.

And it’s not just about the milestone celebrations; this year will see even more opportunities to celebrate with smaller occasions leading up to the main event. We see it happen with weddings, from engagement parties and bridal showers, to rehearsal dinners and post-wedding brunch, it is quite an industry. But any milestone event can keep the party going beyond the event. We aren’t getting away from gender reveals and sip-and-sees. Celebrating a ‘birthday week’ or ‘birthday month’ keeps the festivities going.

Are there any hot 2023 party trends you would like to try?