2025 Wedding Trends
As we enter 2025, the wedding industry is embracing a blend of tradition and innovation, with couples seeking personalized and immersive experiences. Here are the top 10 wedding trends to watch for this year:
Draping
If there’s one thing everyone seems to agree on, it’s draping! This trend is having a moment and can make any venue feel intimate and cozy. Create luxe sophistication with dramatic draping for backdrops, ceiling or tent décor, wall framing, arbor/chuppah décor, and even tablescapes.
PHOTOS: KENGEL PHOTOGRAPHY | ANNMARIE SWIFT PHOTOGRAPHY | ERICA FERRONE PHOTOGRAPHY
DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY
Whether it’s paparazzi-style, behind the scenes, or blurred action shots, documentary style photography has strong storytelling capabilities and pulls away from traditional posed shots. This type of imagery tends to feels more authentic and offers a party vibe.
We’ve also seen film photography coming back into the picture. The soft, romantic style makes it perfect for weddings. And perhaps the best part is the grand reveal after the photos have been processed!
PHOTOS: ANNMARIE SWIFT PHOTOGRAPHY | ALEXIS ANN PHOTOGRAPHY | CALLISTO & COMPANY
HIGH-FASHION & STATEMENT PIECES
Couples are stepping up their fashion game - from outfit changes to bold accessories to custom pieces.
Outfit Changes
Dress changes for weddings have become a popular trend, allowing couples, especially brides, to showcase multiple styles throughout their special day. Many brides opt for a traditional gown for the ceremony, followed by a more modern, comfortable, or statement-making outfit for the reception or after-party. Think sleek jumpsuits and detachable skirts to shimmering cocktail dresses and bold two-piece ensembles.
Multicultural couples often embrace the beauty of their diverse backgrounds by incorporating outfit changes that honor their heritage. This allows them to celebrate and represent the traditions of both cultures in a meaningful and stylish way. Switching between formalwear and traditional attire, create a heartfelt nod to their shared cultural roots.
Bold Accessories & Custom Pieces
Couples can really showcase their personality with bold accessories and custom attire. Think an unexpected pop of color, embroidered veils, dramatic capes, or lace gloves. For a touch of individuality, consider personalized details like custom suits, monogrammed socks, or distinctive ties.
PHOTOS: ZHUAN FRIAS PHOTOGRAPHY | KELLY STEVENS PHOTOGRAPHY | CAITLIN PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY
PRIVATE VOWS
Private vows are a great way to have additional private time with you soon-to-be-spouse or get out any pre-ceremony jitters. Couples can share a private moment before their ceremony to fully embrace the personal exchange of their vows.
PHOTOS: ANNMARIE SWIFT PHOTOGRAPHY | MICHELLE EATON PHOTOGRAPHY
RESTAURANT WEDDINGS & UNIQUE VENUES
Restaurant Weddings
Couples are looking for elevated dining experiences, which means, they are booking sought-after restaurants or looking for restaurant-quality catering at their venue.
Unique Venues
Unexpected venues, such as libraries, museums, or private estates, offer a unique blend of intimacy, sophistication, luxury, and romance. These distinctive settings create a memorable backdrop by adding charm and elegance to the couple's wedding day.
PHOTOS: HEATHER NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTOTS BY ANNALEE | ERICA FERRONE PHOTOGRAPHY
SUSTAINABLE LUXURY
Eco-chic is on the rise! Couples are prioritizing high-quality, ethically sourced materials and sustainable practices without sacrificing style or flavor. Reusable items and locally sourced products are in, while single-use décor and disposable items are out. Here are some trends we've seen.
- Rent your décor or find second-hand instead of purchasing new.
- Look for sustainable venues that offer energy-efficient practices, composting/recycling, eco-friendly materials, and farm-to-table catering.
- Shop local for guest favors or welcome bags. Items like soap, candles, and edible goodies are popular.
- Use seasonal florals or potted plants.
- Use multi-purpose décor. Think aisle décor that becomes centerpieces, place cards that are also a guest favor, or beverage seating charts.
- Try upcycled or vintage attire.
- Send digital invitations.
PHOTOS: GENEVIEVE RUDOLPH PHOTOGRAPHY | NED JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY | KATE MCELWEE PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD-FOCUSED FUN
Instead of a sit down, multi-course meal, couples want to mingle with their guests. Offering interactive food stations provide a customizable and entertaining culinary experience. Think sushi bars, ice cream sundae stations, or a family recipe that represents their culture.
PHOTOS: STEPHANIE CABRERA PHOTOGRAPHY | ZEV FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY | SHANE GODFREY PHOTOGRAPHY
BOLD COLOR PALETTES
Bold color trends for weddings are making a splash, with couples opting for vibrant palettes that add energy and personality to their special day. Rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are popular for creating a luxurious atmosphere, while bright shades such as fuchsia, tangerine, and cobalt bring a playful and modern touch. These bold hues are being incorporated into everything from floral arrangements and tablescapes to attire and accessories and even the wedding cake. This trend reflects a shift toward more expressive and personalized celebrations.
PHOTOS: VICTORIA REILLY PHOTOGRAPHY | MICHELLE EATON PHOTOGRAPHY | ZAC WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY
EXPERIENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT
Couples are increasingly focused on crafting curated experiences that provide their guests with unique and interactive elements. Imagine flash mobs, interactive food/drink stations or food truck, belly dancers, live painters, 360-degree photo booths, tarot readings, flower bouquet station, lawn games, and more! These immersive touches make the celebration unforgettable and create lasting memories for everyone involved.
PHOTOS: RACHEL SHEK PHOTOGRAPHY | KARA CONSIGLI PHOTOGRAPHY | TREVOR HOLDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
PERSONALIZED & MEANINGFUL DETAILS
This trend emphasizes the significance of personal touches, with couples incorporating family traditions, heirlooms, memorabilia, and custom décor to tell their unique love story. Items like a family member’s dress or jewelry, custom crests or monograms, memory displays or personal messages, all bring history and a hyper-personalization to the celebration.
PHOTOS: VICTORIA REILLY PHOTOGRAPHY | MICHELLE EATON PHOTOGRAPHY | ZAC WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY
