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Photo by The Foxes Photography
Here at Brides, we spend our days covering the hottest wedding trends and anticipating new crazes on the horizon. Since we write about the ins and outs of weddings for a living, we’ve accumulated an extensive amount of knowledge about the industry along the way. You could say we know our stuff!
That’s why, each month, we ask our editors to reveal their favorite wedding trends at the moment. From statement-making wedding gowns to breathtaking reception décor to mouthwatering cuisine, we share our top picks across all categories to help you envision and execute your dream wedding. There’s no better place to get wedding inspiration than from people who look at weddings all day long, so we’ve gathered a list of the top trends our editors can’t get enough of to help you start planning your own.
Below, you’ll find our editors’ favorite fad along with a quote about why they love it and a link to a similar article where you can find even more information and inspiration. Our hope is to give you ideas that help you navigate the planning process more easily and host an epic wedding that speaks to you as a couple.
Keep reading for the inside scoop on all of the trends our editors have been obsessing over lately!
Late-Night Snacks
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Photo by KT Merry
“Is there anything better than when snacks appear toward the end of a wedding? Serve your favorite sweet or savory snacks. At my wedding, we chose milk and cookie shots, but fast food burgers, mini pizzas, or ice cream are other great ideas.” — Gabby Rello, Editorial Director
Walking Down the Aisle With Both Parents
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Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography
“Of course, making your way to the altar with your dad by your side is a sentimental tradition. But, more and more brides are modernizing their entrance by having both parents escort them down the aisle. Rooted in Jewish tradition, this procession is such a special way to include both parents in your ceremony.” — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
Personal Appetizers
Photo by Justine Milton Photography
“If you're looking for a creative alternative to classic cocktail hour food, personal charcuterie boards for each wedding guest is one of my favorite ideas. It's a thoughtful way to ensure everyone gets a bite to eat before the party starts, and they look amazing.” — Gabby Rello, Editorial Director
First Look With Parents
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Photo by Kiyah C Photography
“While a first look with your fiancé is already a popular trend, I love how couples are doing them with their parents or important family figures as well. Not only will it mean a lot to the both of you, but the photos are also so heartfelt and sincere!” — Shelby Wax, Senior Editor
Colorful Shoes
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Photo by Catherine Guidry
“I love that brides are continuously showcasing their personal style through statement accessories, and one trend that's increasingly becoming popular is colorful shoes. Whether blue, green, pink, or yellow, shoes can add an unexpected, but tasteful, pop of color to any bridal ensemble!” — Corinne Pierre-Louis, Editor
An All-White Bouquet
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Photo by Ashlyn Cathey Photography
“Although white is a classic hue that’s never going out of style, neutral palettes are trending at the moment. And what better way to establish your color scheme than with florals? An all-white bouquet will coordinate perfectly with your wedding dress, and the monochromatic look will give your attire a chic and sleek feel.” — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
Unexpected Flower Combinations
Photo by Winsome + Wright Photography; Florals by Mandy Grace Designs; Event Design by Maui's Angels
“I'm obsessed with garden roses and cosmos (I grow both at home!). And I love them as an unexpectedly gorgeous pairing in a bouquet. It's the perfect understated mix for a spring or summer wedding.” — Gabby Rello, Editorial Director
Film Photography
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Photo by Michelle Scott Photography
“Looking for a way to instantly lend an air of ‘cool’ to your wedding album? Ask your photographer to take a few shots on a film camera. These slightly granular snaps bring a retro feel to a portrait that you'll definitely treasure in years to come.” — Shelby Wax, Senior Editor
Green Engagement Rings
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Photo by Rêver Weddings
“Leave it to Bennifer to spark an engagement trend, and that's exactly what they did with J.Lo’s 8.5-carat natural green diamond ring. Colored stones have been growing in popularity over the past few years, and I'm sure we'll start to see more brides sporting green rocks this year and beyond.” — Corinne Pierre-Louis, Editor
Long Banquet Tables
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Photo by Valorie Darling
“Arranging one long banquet table at your reception is a trend I can’t get enough of! Not only does this seating arrangement create the most show-stopping display that lends to incredible photos, but it also fosters an atmosphere of intimacy and romance. Banquet tables provide endless opportunities to make a statement with your décor, from elaborate floral arrangements to extravagant table runners.” — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
Cozy Throw Blankets
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Photo by Nancy Neil
“For me, fall is about all things cozy. I love the idea of integrating coziness into your wedding day. This can be in the form of warm throws on chairs at an outdoor ceremony or spiced cider cocktails at cocktail hour. Our Ultimate Guide to Fall Weddings has tons of inspo to get your creative juices flowing!” — Sam Netkin, Assistant General Manager
Statement-Making Veils
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Photo courtesy of Giambattista Valli
“Veils have long been a bridal staple, but it looks like they have recently gotten a modern revamp. From beautiful embroidery to charming appliqués to surprising headpieces with intricate detailing, this classic piece is certainly having a fashion-forward comeback.” — Shelby Wax, Senior Editor
Feather Pajamas
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Photo courtesy of Remonia
“If you’re looking for a fun and comfortable fit to sport while getting glam with your bridesmaids, these feather pajamas will not disappoint! The lightweight silk fabric will keep you warm and cozy while the luxe feather trim will make the perfect photo op. You can also wear them on your wedding night and long after the wedding is over!” — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
Hyper-Personalized Signature Cocktails
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Photo courtesy of Posh Parties
“You’ve heard of signature cocktails, but some couples are taking these creations a step further—because why have regular ice cubes when you can have monogrammed ice cubes? That's what we call attention to detail!” — Sam Netkin, Assistant General Manager
Colorful Floral Wedding Dresses
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Photo courtesy of Monique Lhuillier
“While floral details have always been a standard for wedding dresses, there is a rising trend to brighten them up in bold, saturated colors. From gorgeous embroidery and appliqué to fabric with popping prints, these styles are a sign that we are all ready for some fun again.” — Shelby Wax, Senior Editor
String Lights
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Photo by Ana & Jerome Photography
“With outdoor weddings becoming the norm, my FAVORITE trend that I've been seeing more and more are string lights. An evening reception, set under a canopy of lights that resemble the stars, is the true definition of romantic bliss.” — Corinne Pierre-Louis, Editor
Short Wedding Dresses
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Photo by Matt Godkin
“Mini wedding dresses are everywhere right now, and for good reason! The cropped length not only makes a statement, but it also provides a breathable and movable design, which is perfect for a summer wedding. Plus, the versatility of a little white dress means you can rewear it long after the wedding ends!” — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings
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Photo courtesy of Heidi Gibson
“I get into a sparkly daze when I see these vintage-inspired rings from Heidi Gibson. They're equal parts timeless and contemporary, with customizable stones for major engagement ring inspo! This is one ring you'll never want to stop showing off." — Araziel Jackson, Associate Social Media Editor
“Something Blue” Accessories
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Photo courtesy of Loeffler Randall
"While the pandemic has made it challenging for couples to uphold certain wedding traditions, I love the idea of honoring ones that have stood the test of time. "Something blue" accessories are the perfect way to do so. Loeffler Randall's Camellia shoe now comes in the perfect shade of bridal blue, and you can even customize the sock liner with your wedding date and initials for a special touch." — Sam Netkin, Assistant General Manager
Online Dress Shopping
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Photo courtesy of Safiya Nygaard
"I'm really happy to see brides continue to take advantage of virtually shopping for their wedding dresses—and love that more designers are continuing to offer this service. It gives brides around the world a chance to buy dresses they otherwise wouldn't have access to." — Corinne Pierre-Louis, Editor
Single-Serve Wedding Cakes
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Photo by Abby Jiu Photography
"Not only are individualized portions a more sanitary option, but they also provide the perfect opportunity for couples to experiment with many different styles, textures, and flavors. Plus, giving each guest their very own wedding cake creates the most intimate experience." — Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant