Wedding bells are ringing… and so are the trend alarms. As we look ahead to 2026, some wedding ideas are getting a big “I do,” while others might be better left at the altar.
Are you or someone you know getting married this year? Take a look at these trends and see if something catches your eye!
Here’s what I’ve found, plus my two cents.
Customization
So much of what I’ve read emphasizes brides, grooms, and even wedding parties embracing their unique vibes. This means less of the traditional, cookie-cutter looks, and more choosing colors, food, and agendas that fit the couple getting hitched!
My takeaway?
• Make a list of your fave things: Colors, foods, patterns, songs, activities. How can you incorporate them into your big day?
• Incorporate your culture or new traditions into your celebration.
• Make sure you know why you’re following that tradition and that it feels good for you!
Image from Celeste Justice Photography
Throwback Guest Experiences
According to wedding planning gurus, The Knot, some couples are opting to embrace throwback themes and additions.
Some of the ideas that caught my eye were:
• Including retro games, claw machines, or other coin-operated games. Or offering games like BINGO and Connect Four.
• Adding in some lace, crochet, or embroidered pieces.
• Brides wearing vintage dress designs.
• Photography & videography that embraces the old, including black and white photos and videos captured on a camcorder.
Image from Theknot.com
Gen-Z Trends
If I’m being honest, I’ve been so intrigued to see how Gen-Z spins their weddings. And what I read did not disappoint. Consider these fun ideas:
• Smaller groups: Smaller or no wedding parties, private ceremonies with larger receptions, and even more intimate wedding celebrations altogether.
• Memorable activities: Think experience-based wedding favors and unique vendors like tarot card readers and tattoo artists.
• Meaningful venues: More couples are choosing a venue with significance to them.
Image from Theknot.com
Capturing & preserving memories in a new way
When you consider everything else that’s trending for upcoming weddings, it’s no wonder that couples are choosing more unique ways of capturing and preserving memories, too. I love these ideas the most:
• Wedding content creators: capturing raw, in-the-moment clips that are ready to post immediately.
• More candid, slow, and intentional photography: Unposed moments doing simple and meaningful activities like going for a walk, enjoying a view, etc.
• Interactive videographers: This style of videographer will interview and engage with guests. The result? Your wedding video includes a lot of personality and memory.
• Unique photo opportunities: Personally, I think booking a photo camper with unique and interactive props is the way to go.
But really, If you’re getting married this year, consider booking Photo Camper for your big day!
Image from Photo Camper
No matter what trend I was reading about here, it was clear that upcoming wedding vibes are all about finding what works for the couple. And honestly? I love that for you! (And all couples tying the knot).
I love reading about weddings. Do you have a trend you’re looking forward to? Or perhaps one you’d rather forget?! Send me an email at hello@photocamper.com to share it with me!
P.S. Have a loved one who is getting married this year? Send them this blog to help them prep!