INTRODUCTION
Each year there is an explosion of blogs, posts, and general chatter about the latest wedding trends for the upcoming year. Those of us in the wedding industry certainly see different aspects that change and are catching couples’ attention. I will share some of my own with you. First, I want to encourage couples to find their own footing as they plan their weddings. You have so much freedom to “make it your own” so I truly encourage you to do so – trend or not! So, let’s begin in no certain order.
First Look
What used to be dubbed as predominantly “helping your timeline,” the “first look” has finally been re-explained as giving the couple an intimate bit of time alone together prior to the ceremony. Yes, yes, the first look does help with the wedding day timeline, but so much more is often gained as well. In a day that is supposed to be “all about you two” you realize that you two are never alone. They busy-ness of wedding day can sometimes take over. Having a 30-minute gap in the day just for you two – alone – to see each other and reaffirm your feelings for each other tends to be priceless.
BRIDAL PARTY FIRST LOOK
While on the subject of a first look, even doing a first look with your bridesmaids is also a great idea. Some brides do all of the hair, make-up, and changing into their wedding day duds all in the same space like dormitory days from college. Girls helping girls and evolving together. Yet, some brides will recluse into the bridal suite with their mom to have those special moments with her. Once the bride has fully transformed into a bride, doing a reveal with her friends is almost as magic. They have never seen her “as a bride,” and it too, is such a special moment too.
Weekend Wedding
We have been offering Weekend Wedding Packages for 10 years and they continue to be popular. Staying on-site the night before wedding day, typically including a Rehearsal Dinner Event, being able to avoid the excessive driving back and forth from town to venue, and just settling in the night before wedding day is such a huge plus and game-changer.
Friend Officiant
None of these trends are new, but this one like so many others, continue to grow in popularity. Having a close friend or family member take on the role as your officiant is more and more popular. Securing a type-A personality might help avoid any stage fright, but often these personal relationship work out better than a hired professional offiiciant.
2026 – Wedding Trends Part II coming soon.