The Journal
What’s Trending in Weddings 2026
1. Bold Colors & Rich Palettes
Strong, saturated tones are making a comeback: jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red. Ros&Co+2THEWED+2
Earth tones are also big: mocha, chocolate brown, warm beiges and terracottas. These bring warmth and depth to decor and florals. ladyjeanranch.com+3abbeyroseweddings.com+3saweddings.co.za+3
Unexpected color pairings — muted blues with terracotta, dusty lilac with citrus, etc. Mixing soft + bold for contrast. rubyfloristry.com+2Perfect Venue Manager+2
2. Floral & Nature Elements: Texture, Height & Installations
More texture. Florals aren’t just roses anymore — pampas grass, sculptural greenery, feathery/delicate textures, mixed materials. rubyfloristry.com+1
Living floral installations: floral ceilings, hanging gardens, climbing vines, installations that transform space into immersive nature-inspired environments. rubyfloristry.com+2bankhouseworcester.com+2
Repurposing florals: using locally grown or seasonal flowers, reusing elements from ceremony to reception, sustainable practices. rubyfloristry.com+1
3. Styling & Decor Trends
Maximalism is back. More layers, more detail. Think bold decor, pattern mixing (linens, chairs, signage), dramatic setups. KC Studios Photography+1
Tablescapes as art: interesting tabletop layouts, unique table shapes (U-shape, serpentine, long banquet style), mixed vintage & modern tableware, linen textures. DreamDayEventDesign+2Creatala Studio+2
Stationery and paper goods are elevated: embossing, custom design, interaction (maps, swatches, tactile textures) so they set the tone of the wedding. studiogail.co+1
4. Bridal Fashion & Dress Styles
Necklines are shifting: high necks, halter styles, modern versions of modesty. Standard Style+1
Quiet luxury and minimalist styles: clean lines, high-quality fabrics, elegant tailoring rather than heavy embellishment. Wedding Shoppe+1
Statement sleeves and sculptural elements: puffed sleeves, bishop sleeves, detachable parts (sleeves or overskirts) to change look through the day. Standard Style+1
5. Personalization & Experience
Weddings are becoming more personalized: couples incorporate aspects of their own story, culture, favorite things. It’s less about “one-size-fits-all” and more about what feels authentic. kennedyblue.com+1
Interactive guest experiences: live artists (painting, florals), mix-your-own drinks, photo booths or content zones especially for social media. Ros&Co+1
Unique layouts and ceremony styles: breaking away from typical banquet & aisle formats. More circular ceremonies, lounge areas, relaxed seating. Confetti Society+1
6. Sustainable & Slow Wedding Ideas
Eco-conscious choices: sourcing local & seasonal florals, choosing reusable decor, reducing waste. rubyfloristry.com+1
Multi-day or destination weddings that emphasize experience over scale. More intimate or meaningful rather than just large guest numbers. KC Studios Photography+1
Why These Trends Matter (for Photography & Couples)
They shape what couples are asking for — for example, bold colors and maximalist decor mean more contrast, more visual depth, more interesting backdrops for photos.
Natural, textured elements and installations give dynamic shapes and layers, which photographers can use for creative compositions.
Personalized touches mean each wedding is more unique, so keeping an open style is useful (being ready to capture moments that are specific to each couple).
Sustainability and local sourcing can influence timing, lighting, even locations (outdoors, or venues that complement natural textures).