As you plan your journey down the aisle, it's time to explore the latest trends and hottest wedding aesthetics that have been stealing the spotlight this year.
By: Meghan Ely
Photo: Mandee Johnson Photography
From timeless classics to bold and eclectic styles, the world of wedding aesthetics is ever-evolving. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic garden affair, a chic modern celebration, or something entirely unexpected, there's a wedding aesthetic to suit every taste and vision.
Wedding experts unveil the top wedding aesthetics dominating the scene to help you to create a celebration that’s equal parts striking and authentic to you and your partner.
"Some of the top wedding aesthetics are bringing back bright, vibrant colors, floral arrangements, and boho meets vintage glam. More oranges, pinks, reds, and 'burnt' colors are on the rise. Using the Pantone Color of the Year is all the rage for these brides. Dried flower bouquets, big floral arches, and bud vases everywhere are the vibes. Airy photography, raw videography, and black-and-white dance floors meet outdoor wedding venues." —Kelsey Strickland, Twickenham House and Hall
"The leading wedding aesthetic is decidedly analog, embracing timeless elements such as classic wristwatches, vintage dresses, and film photography, steering clear of modern devices like smartwatches and smartphones." —Megan Breukelman, Megan & Kenneth
"A nostalgic trend has made its way into the wedding industry, with film photography and videography becoming more popular among our couples than ever before. Whether it's a photographer who shoots 35mm alongside their digital or a videographer who incorporates Super 8 into their workflow, couples are embracing the charm of a bygone era in their wedding memories." —Colton Simmons, Colton Simmons Photography
"Couples are looking for more delicate, detailed, yet eye-catching petite bouquets, a color palette that tells a story. Whether it's starting out with neutrals and then adding color as the wedding day progresses or including details that complement the entire day, color is definitely an important factor. Even if garden-romantic is a couple's vibe, modern touches are making an appearance in their day. Black vases and accents, linear elements, and ikebana-styled arrangements help add these modern moments through the décor." —Mandy Hess, MJM Designs
"Rich and color, prints, and patterns, the festival-inspired wedding is rich in experiences that explore the senses. From interactive food experiences to a cleansing ceremony when guests arrive to sound baths to awaken the senses, our festival-inspired weddings are bringing in a full weekend of adventure. Some are evening bringing the glamping with them with luxury cabins and onsite tent options." —Samantha Leenheer, House of Joy
"In my market, I see a gorgeous spread of wildflowers to celestial happening right now! My clients are taking some simplistic nature themes, and Renaissance meets moonbeams with their weddings. Their décor goes between the soft, gentle tones of creams paired with a wild color that usually represents a huge part of who they are as a couple, not just what is popular. Additionally, some of my clients are opting for a new expression in the fall season with castles, renaissance undertones, and celestial decor. My market is ever-evolving in their love of self-expression mixed with thematically endearing aesthetics that inspire timeless visuals and chill vibes." —Jen Sulak, Weirdo Weddings
"Creating drama using a bold and refined aesthetic is the way to go. Bold can be vibrant colors, yet it can also be bold statements using soft or monotone colors. The use of vibrant colors certainly makes the bold theme easy, but dramatic effects can be developed beautifully to embark on a statement that truly represents the couple and their vision." —Sarah Chianese, Mangia and Enjoy!
Remember that the most important element of any aesthetic is that it reflects your love story and personal style. Whatever your style preference, the key is to infuse your wedding with elements that speak to who you are as a couple. So, as you incorporate the latest trends and hottest styles into your big day, don't forget to stay true to yourselves and create a wedding that feels uniquely yours!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.