2025 weddings decoded: trends, truths, and spicy secrets

When it comes to planning weddings in 2025, the industry is buzzing with big changes, bold ideas, and insider secrets from being deep in the trenches. We’ve gathered insights from 17 of Offbeat Wed’s community of wedding vendors to bring you the scoop on what’s trending, what’s trash (literally!), and what couples and vendors alike need to know to survive and thrive planning a wedding in 2025.

Let’s dive into five key trends dominating the offbeat wedding world… with some spicy hot takes at the end to leave your lil tongue burning.

1. Smaller, More Intentional Weddings

Gone are the days of extravagant guest lists just for the sake of spectacle. In 2025, couples are scaling back… and it’s not just about saving money. It’s about creating deeply personal celebrations.

“Weddings are becoming more about the adventure and experience rather than the guest count,” said Sam Starns (Sam Starns Adventure Elopement Photographer). Smaller guest lists mean more focus on experiences and connections that actually matter.

“I think the trend of smaller, more intimate weddings will continue for both personal preference reasons and budgetary concerns,” added Sam Waldron (Dutcher Photography).

For some couples, these smaller weddings also come with the freedom to invest in details that truly reflect their personalities. “Couples are choosing to prioritize what feels authentic and meaningful to them, rather than following traditional norms,” said Libby Martin (Dragonfly Events OC).

Amber DePangher (Sightglass Photography) echoed this sentiment, noting, “We’re seeing more micro weddings where couples focus on experiences over extravagance.”

And it’s not just about the guest count… it’s about making those moments count. “I’ve noticed many of my clients scaling back guest lists and putting more budget into personal touches,” added Kathryn Cooper (Kathryn Cooper Weddings).

2. Rise of Non-Traditional Ceremonies

The creativity is flowing in 2025, as couples are ditching cookie-cutter ceremonies in favor of personalized rituals. From handfastings to group dances, the focus is on crafting a moment that feels one-of-a-kind.

“Couples need to know they have choices! I’d love to see more alternative ceremonies instead of the traditional ho-hum all the time,” said Reenie Panzini (I Do For All).

Language is also evolving. “More people are moving away from traditional ‘giving away the bride’ language and choosing rituals that reflect equality,” said Brandon J. Brown (Roost Photography).

Creativity isn’t just encouraged; it’s expected. Kelly Heuss (Uniquely Inviting) highlighted how couples are upping the fun factor: “Couples are incorporating fun, unexpected elements into their ceremonies, like Lego minifigure guestbooks and costume-themed celebrations.”

Tonya (Poprock Photography) pointed out another growing trend: “It’s refreshing to see more couples involve their guests in unique ways, like interactive vows or group dances.” These touches ensure the ceremony isn’t just meaningful… it’s memorable.

3. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

Sustainability isn’t just trendy; it’s necessary. And in 2025, couples are finding innovative ways to make their weddings more eco-friendly.

“Being truly sustainable means thinking beyond mason jars and actually making eco-friendly decisions like compostable plates, local flowers, and skipping the greenwashing,” said Ashleigh Pritchard (CharmCat).

And it doesn’t stop at decor. Jamie Rosler (Broadly Entertaining) noted that couples are embracing sustainable choices across the board: “Couples are starting to think about sustainability not just in decor but in every aspect of their wedding, like choosing local caterers or skipping single-use plastics.”

For many couples, this focus extends to what they wear. “There’s more appreciation for upcycled and vintage clothing as a sustainable way to celebrate,” said Sarah Sims (Vintage Opulence).

Ashleigh (CharmCat) emphasized the importance of rethinking waste altogether. “Sustainability needs to go deeper, like encouraging reselling or gifting wedding items for reuse. Let’s normalize this.”

4. Budgets Are Shaping Creativity

Tight budgets are sparking big creativity in 2025. Couples are finding ways to do more with less, all while creating celebrations that feel uniquely their own.

“With client budgets shrinking, it’s been a challenge to maintain profitability, especially for LGBTQ+ clients who often face additional societal challenges,” said Maya Lovro (Maya Lovro Photography).

These financial challenges have led many couples to rethink their priorities. “Couples are looking for alternative vendor options to avoid spending a down payment on a house for their wedding,” said Merida Alexander (Events By Merida).

Melody (Vinny & Charles) noted, “More budget-friendly weddings are becoming the norm as couples navigate cost-of-living challenges.”

And it’s not all about cutting costs. Some couples are finding joy in doing things themselves. “Some couples are doing DIY decor and simplifying their menus, proving that creativity can shine even when budgets are tight,” said Sarah Sims (Vintage Opulence).

Amber DePangher (Sightglass Photography) added, “I’ve had clients shift their focus to smaller weddings so they can splurge on memorable experiences.”

5. Inclusivity and Representation

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a mandate. In 2025, vendors and couples alike are demanding more thoughtful representation across the board.

“It’s 2025—why are vendors still discriminating?” asked Merida Alexander (Events By Merida). “This industry is supposed to be about love, but we can’t even respect pronouns?” …Maybe it's because they haven't read our inclusive marketing guide!? Let's get on it, people!

Sam Waldron (Dutcher Photography) called out performative allyship: “Vendors are calling for real representation, not performative allyship from brands that tokenize the queer community.”

For Raven (Raven Shutley Studios), it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. “Representation matters because it shows everyone they belong in this industry.”

Kelly Heuss (Uniquely Inviting) added, “I’d love to see more education for couples and vendors alike on how to create truly inclusive celebrations.” As always, we have a few ideas.

Hot Takes🌶️ The Spicy Side of Weddings in 2025

We couldn’t wrap this up without diving into some of the hottest takes from our vendor community. Buckle up… these truths might sting, but they need to be said.

Content Creators vs. Vendors
“Content creators make our jobs a hundred times harder at weddings. They get in the way of actual photography and videography,” said Lori Foxworth (Black, White, and Raw Photography). Vendors are drawing boundaries and asking for mutual respect to ensure the day is captured professionally… unplugged weddings, anyone?

Rainbow Capitalism is Over
“Mainstream wedding brands slap a rainbow on it and call it inclusive while completely ignoring actual diversity in the queer community,” said Sam Waldron (Dutcher Photography). Vendors are calling for real representation, not performative allyship.

Wedding Favors Are Trash (Literally)
“Skip the favors that just become trash. The only ones worth doing are edible, and for the love of Earth, put them in compostable containers,” said Ashleigh Pritchard (CharmCat).

Stop Glossing Over Discrimination
“It’s 2025. Why are vendors still discriminating?” asked Merida Alexander (Events By Merida). “This industry is about love…let’s act like it.”

As the wedding industry evolves, it’s clear that couples and vendors alike are reshaping what’s possible. From intimate, meaningful celebrations to calling out the industry’s flaws, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transformation. Whether you’re a vendor looking to align with these trends or a couple searching for the perfect team to bring your vision to life, one thing is clear… the future of weddings is bold, inclusive, and unapologetically offbeat.