Say “I Do” to These Wedding Trends That Are Actually Fun in
2025 & 2026

Say “I Do” to These Wedding Trends That Are Actually Fun in 2025 & 2026


Okay, let’s get one thing clear: weddings in 2025/2026? They’re for you. Intentional, stylish, creative, and honestly just plain fun. If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest trying to figure out how to make your wedding feel “like you,” trust me, you’re not the only one. I literally do it for fun like it’s my happy place. Planning dream weddings (even fake ones) is basically my average pastime activity. 
I’m Karinna, a Southern California wedding and elopement photographer, and I’ve seen everything from barefoot beach vows to backyard bangers. So if you’re planning your big day and want some inspo that’s actually exciting (and not just the same old dusty traditions) here are some of the wedding trends I’m totally obsessed with right now.

1. Private Vows
Let’s be real. Writing vows is already emotional. Reading them in front of 100 plus people? Um, no thank you. If you’re like me and hate public speaking or crying in front of a crowd, private vows are the move. You can sneak away before the ceremony just the two of you (and me lurking nearby with a camera of course) and have that sweet, personal moment in peace.
They’re intimate, raw, and they make for some incredible photos.

2. Elopement + Massive After Party
Okay this one is my favorite trend ever. More and more couples are saying yes to an elopement somewhere dreamy like a mountaintop, desert, or oceanside cliff and then throwing a huge party later with everyone they love. 
Whether it’s a backyard bash with food trucks and twinkle lights or renting a cool venue for the vibe this combo is way more budget friendly way more personal and honestly way more fun.

3. Statement Veils + All the Drama
Veils with stitched quotes pearl studded capes embroidered stars YES. These aren’t just accessories they’re a whole fashion moment. I’m a sucker for bold jewelry and funky pieces so when I saw these kinds of veils trending yeah I gasped.
They make your bridal portraits feel super editorial and so romantic. Give me ten minutes and a dreamy veil and you’ll look like you stepped out of a Vogue spread.

4. Flash Photos + Film Feels
Direct flash is back and 35mm film is everywhere. Adding in those vintage blurry gritty feeling shots alongside your polished ones creates the coolest moodiest wedding gallery.
You’ll look like the main character in an indie music video and I’ll be there with my flash in hand like your personal paparazzi

5. Mismatched Wedding Party Looks
Matching dresses and tuxes are cute but 2025 is all about letting your wedding party do their thing. Think cohesive color palettes but different textures and styles. Soft neutrals moody florals jewel tones it all works.
The best part? Your people feel confident and comfy and that vibe totally comes through in your photos.

6. Sunrise or Midweek Ceremonies
Hear me out sunrise weddings. Golden light calm energy and you still have the entire day to celebrate however you want. Or go midweek if you want to save on your venue and vendors plus it's way less chaotic.
Imagine getting married at sunrise grabbing brunch and chilling at the beach all day with pina coladas in hand. That’s the kind of laid back luxury we’re here for.

7. Solo Bridal Portraits 
Take a moment to soak it all in and let’s do a mini session just for you. The day can move fast so setting aside a little time for some extra creative portraits gives you that Pinterest worthy content and a breather from the chaos.
You deserve to feel like a goddess.

8. Adventure Elopements with The Fit
Whether it’s golden hour in Joshua Tree, your backyard, the court house, or Big Sur…adventure elopements are the moment. Don’t choose between hiking boots and heels bring both. Wear the flowy dress hike to the view and let’s create pure magic.
I’ll be there climbing rocks fixing your dress hyping you up and capturing the most jaw dropping shots. Trust me your gallery will give romantic wilderness goddess all day long.