As we step into 2024, the world of weddings continues evolving, blending age-old traditions with new and modern twists. The wedding industry is such an interesting place that often mirrors the trends of our time, from fashion to pop culture. As a wedding photographer who grew up in the 90s, I feel that the best is yet to come!

The Revival of Retro:

In the ever-changing landscape of weddings, what was once old is new again in 2024. Retro trends are making a HUGE comeback, ushering in an era of extra-piped cakes, disposable cameras, DJs spinning vinyl, film photography, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Couples are focusing on injecting fun and personal touches into their weddings, breaking away from expectations to craft celebrations that authentically reflect their love story, styles, and personalities. This often means more intimate weddings with lots of personal and fun touches.

Jess on B&W 35mm film at Harlaxton Manor — Jess captured on 35mm B&W Film at Harlaxton Manor

Thematic Wedding Weekends With a Twist:

Building on the momentum of multi-day destination weddings from the previous year, 2024 takes it a step further with strategically themed celebrations. Welcome parties are becoming more than just a prelude to the main event; they're transforming into unique experiences with specific themes like buttoned-up BBQ, casual cowboy, and colourful garden affairs. The impact extends to guest dress codes, with modern black tie, al fresco formal, and California cocktail styles making waves. The traditional Friday night and Saturday evening wedding timeline is evolving as couples embrace extended festivities, incorporating recovery days filled with pool parties, pickleball tournaments, and more. And the trend seems to be going towards making a holiday out of the weekend in a gorgeous European destination like Lake Como in Italy or along the coast in Spain. A stunning venue recently featured in the Wed is the Gran Villa Rosa which is located near one of my absolute favourite places in Spain - Sitges, Barcelona. I have recently discovered a stunning vineyard just off the coast of Barcelona - Masia Cabellutalso which is a dream location to host a wedding!

Events Bursting With Colour:

Embracing the vibrant spirit of 2024, couples are infusing their weddings with a burst of colour. Neutral, muted colour palettes are taking a back seat as dynamic mood boards come to life with textures, patterns, and movement. The explosion of colour extends throughout the wedding weekend, allowing couples to experiment with different schemes and create cutting-edge colourscapes.

A Priority Reset:

Returning to the essence of a memorable wedding, couples are reinvesting in tried-and-true elements: incredible music, delicious food, and top-notch fashion. The focus is on creating an infectious vibe that keeps guests on their feet all night. Immersive entertainment, such as live performances and artists, is gaining popularity as couples prioritise producing an unforgettable experience. Approachability is key, with couples designing weddings that are both laid-back and polished, prioritising comfort and ease for their guests.

As we step into the world of weddings in 2024, the forecast is clear: a celebration of individuality, creativity, and a renewed focus on what truly matters. This year promises to be a canvas for couples to paint their unique love stories, setting the stage for weddings that are not just events but unforgettable experiences.