If you’ve recently gotten engaged and are starting to plan your dream wedding, you’re likely wondering what trends are making waves in the wedding world. Whether you’re envisioning a timeless celebration or a more modern twist on tradition, staying on top of the latest trends can help ensure your big day is both chic and unforgettable. To guide you on this exciting journey, we’ve gathered a team of wedding professionals to share their expert insights for creating that magical day.
Kara Clouser from Conte Photography is a seasoned wedding photographer with 17 years of experience. She has a deep understanding of the current wedding ins and outs. She began her journey in high school and has since worked in various photography roles, capturing the most intimate and joyous moments of countless couples. As wedding trends evolve, Clouser has witnessed firsthand how couples’ visions for their big day have transformed.
The days of traditional, cookie-cutter weddings are over. Couples are now embracing more personalized experiences, often reflecting their interests and aesthetics. Many are moving away from the classic wedding traditions and opting for outdoor ceremonies followed by receptions in rustic barns or estates. Clouser notes, “It used to always be that you had a handful of venues, and then there were hotels, which were a big wedding venue as well. That really shifted to these all-in-one places. There are a lot more outdoor weddings than what you may have seen previously, but that’s because it might be a venue where the reception is inside an old warehouse, a museum or a barn, and then to keep it all in one location, there is an outdoor spot for the ceremony.”
Frank and Barbara Pinto, the owners of the historic Peter Allen House, bring over 27 years of experience in the wedding industry. Barbara Pinto noted that many weddings have grown beyond traditional customs, with couples increasingly embracing unique themes.
“There are a lot of couples doing themed weddings now. We’ve seen Star Wars, the Roaring Twenties, even a Disney-themed wedding,” she said.
With wedding expenses continuing to rise, many couples are rethinking their approach to the big day, making strategic choices that allow them to have a meaningful and memorable celebration without breaking the bank. There’s been a shift toward smaller, more intimate weddings, where couples are trimming down their guest lists and opting for a more personal experience rather than a large-scale event.
Gone are the days when bigger was always better. In fact, many couples are finding that a smaller guest list allows them to focus more on the quality of the experience rather than the quantity of people in attendance. By inviting only their closest family and friends, couples can create a more relaxed atmosphere where they can truly connect with each person present. This trend has led to the rise of what Clouser refers to as the “elopement-style” wedding – a smaller, more intimate celebration.
“I’ve seen a lot more of what I would call the elopement-style happening, where it is very small and intimate, and I feel like that is probably going to be a trend until prices go down at least,” she said.
Weddings are also seeing a shift in fashion, especially when it comes to color schemes. Couples are moving away from the traditional black-and-white palette in favor of warm, moody tones.
“Of course, the colors kind of go with the season a little bit,” said Clouser. “It was kind of funny, because I had two very different weddings in the same weekend as far as aesthetics go, and they both had forest green for the bridesmaids, which was a first. Wine is another popular color I saw a lot this year.”
For fall weddings, the seasonal colors blend effortlessly with nature, complementing the changing leaves and crisp air. Sage green, oranges and burgundy are especially popular color palettes. This trend is expanding beyond just bridesmaids’ dresses and florals –couples are also incorporating these moody hues into other elements like table settings, invitations and even cake designs, ensuring a cohesive color story throughout the celebration.
As the wedding industry continues to evolve, fashion is no longer about simply choosing what’s “in” for the season; it’s about creating a wedding that reflects the couple’s personality, preferences and the mood they want to set. With so many possibilities for customization, the future of wedding fashion is sure to be full of vibrant, personalized choices that create unforgettable moments.
Catering is another area where couples are getting creative. While plated meals are still an option, buffet-style dining and food stations are becoming increasingly popular.
“We’ve noticed a lot of couples are going for more casual catering and dining. Mission BBQ is a popular food option because it has all the comfort foods. We’ve also seen a few taco bars and food trucks in recent years,” said Barbara Pinto. These setups allow guests to enjoy a more relaxed, interactive experience with a variety of food options that can accommodate dietary preferences. Grazing tables featuring finger foods and charcuterie boards are also a hit.
As for wedding seasons, fall is quickly becoming the most sought-after time to tie the knot in 2025.
“We’ve noticed a shift, whereas a lot of couples went from having Spring weddings to Fall,” said Frank Pinto. The cooler weather, breathtaking natural scenery and seasonal charm create a romantic atmosphere perfect for a wedding. The rich colors of fall are inspiring both decor and attire, setting the tone for a warm and inviting celebration. With so many couples choosing outdoor venues, the autumn season provides a picture-perfect backdrop for weddings under a canopy of vibrant foliage.
Your wedding should be fun and tailored to you.
“When selecting a venue, the most important thing we ask the couple is what their vision is and how we can match it. We’d like to know what is most important to them and what their budget is,” said Frank Pinto. Christine Berencz, from Peter Allen House, added, “With social media, many already have an idea on what they want.”
The world of technology has made wedding planning an almost effortless and plain-sailing process.
Weddings are all about personalization, creativity, and a more intimate experience for couples and their guests. Couples are finding new ways to make their day a reflection of their unique love story. With seasonal inspirations and personalized touches, wedding planning in 2025 promises to be an unforgettable journey, and for those embarking on it, the possibilities are endless.
Photos by Andrea Kitner
