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Photo by David and Shayna Photography
Photo by Jennifer Nicole Photography

4 Wedding Trends We’re Loving Because They Feel Personal, and a Few We're Ready to Leave Behind

  • Feb 10
  • 3 min read

Every year brings new wedding trends, but the ones that stay with us are rarely about what is popular online. The trends we love most are the ones that feel thoughtful, flexible, and rooted in real relationships.


Lately, many couples are choosing options that remove pressure and create space for the moments that matter most. These choices feel less about doing what is expected and more about honoring who they are and who they love.


Smaller wedding parties, or none at all

We are seeing more couples choose smaller wedding parties, or skip formal wedding parties altogether. Instead of standing at the front, their closest people are invited to get ready together, share the morning, and be present throughout the day.


This shift feels intentional. It removes the pressure of assigning roles or keeping sides even. In recent seasons, we have seen grooms include everyone they have known across different phases of life, which can unintentionally place pressure on their partner to expand their side as well. Letting go of symmetry allows each person to choose what feels right without comparison.


Wedding parties seated during the ceremony

For couples who do include a wedding party, one of our favorite choices is having them seated in the first rows during the ceremony. This allows them to truly witness the moment rather than focus on standing still or holding expressions.


Ceremonies feel calmer when friends are comfortable. Photos reflect presence rather than effort. Everyone gets to experience the ceremony together.


Thoughtful moments for mothers

Mothers are often deeply involved behind the scenes, yet their role during the ceremony can feel understated. Some couples are choosing to change that in meaningful ways.


One ceremony invited both mothers to stand with the couple for a brief blessing. The words honored their role in bringing them into the world and shaping who they became, with a simple sentiment of gratitude for creating the person they would marry.


We have also seen beautiful mother daughter dances added to receptions. These moments feel joyful, emotional, and deeply personal for families.


Including grandparents with intention

We love when grandparents are included in visible and thoughtful ways. Flower grandmothers have become a favorite, with walkers or wheelchairs decorated with ribbons and flowers. We have also had grandfathers hold the rings during the ceremony, creating a moment that feels grounded and meaningful. These roles honor presence and family history without needing to draw attention to themselves.


What these trends have in common

The moments that resonate most are rarely about decor or display. They center on people, relationships, and shared experience. Weddings feel lighter when choices come from intention rather than obligation. Guests feel it. Couples feel it.


Trends we gently encourage couples to reconsider


Disposable cameras

Disposable cameras often feel nostalgic, but they come with challenges. Film development options are limited, costs add up, and many cameras are discarded afterward. For couples who care about thoughtful choices, the return rarely matches the effort or expense.


QR codes throughout the celebration

QR codes have become common, but they often go unused. Guests hesitate to scan, platforms push additional purchases, and printed signage can feel out of place within the overall design. Many couples share afterward that very few photos were uploaded despite the investment.


A final planning perspective

Before adding anything to your wedding plans, pause and ask what purpose it serves. Understanding where an item fits, how it will be used, and whether it adds meaning helps decisions feel clearer.


Your wedding day is a celebration, not a performance. The people you surround yourself with and the moments you choose to highlight shape the experience far more than any trend.



If you are looking for a wedding planner who will values intention, schedule a consultation call with us. We can't wait to meet you!


Do you have questions about our collections? View our planning collections here.




Keywords: best connecticut wedding coordinator, north carolina wedding planner, 2026 wedding planning trends, wedding planning advice


Thoughtful planning with guidance where it matters most

Connecticut Wedding and Event Planner | North Carolina Wedding and Event Planner 

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Rose Rocc Weddings & Events, LLC

Serving Connecticut, North Carolina, and South Carolina

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