Bridesmaids of the past, remember getting a email of the picture of the "chosen" bridesmaid dress, when the bride "asked" you what you thought, but your thoughts didn't matter (nor should they) because it was her wedding? You had to find a bridal store to get measured up in so it was exact than sent to the bride so she could submit it. I have a collection of bridesmaid dresses that "I thought it was versatile so you could wear again" (yeah never wore it again). Remember everyone having to have matching shoes, hair, jewelry even makeup? Those days are gone, and while I feel a bit jealous, I also feel sorry for those who never had to work with such detail. Today's brides give the bridesmaids the wedding colors and are told to find a dress they feel comfortable with, that matches the color scheme (maybe drop the bride a text dress picture for pre-approval) and don't worry about matching shoes! Those days are long gone, and so are other traditional wedding trends. Check out these 2026 wedding trends according to YELP:
- Experiences are key in modern weddings - Some couples opt to tie the knot at venues where experiences are built-in, like parks with lake boating, botanical gardens with butterfly exhibits, or rooftop lounges with patio games. Others are adding “performances” like live-painting or bouquet-making stations where guests can create their own keepsakes.
- Food is going interactive - Boring chicken or fish dinners are out and creative dining is in. Couples are choosing chef-led tasting stations, build-your-own taco bars, global street-food carts, or curated menus that feature food from their heritage or travels.
- Photos go candid - The staged group poses and on-command smiles are less popular today, as couples want to capture the authenticity of the day, real tears, laughs, and all.
- Couples value sustainability - Eco-conscious brides and grooms are paying attention to where their wedding items come from and where they go afterwards. For flowers, they want locally sourced seasonal blooms, reusable potted plants, or even donate florals to hospitals or senior homes after the nuptials.
- They’re ditching the dress code - From jumpsuits to Converse sneakers, couples are wearing what makes them feel comfortable and confident when they say “I do.” Detachable elements, like sleeves and capes are on-trend, and searches for “vintage wedding dresses” have jumped 41% on Yelp.
- Rings with a purpose - Interest in sustainability applies to rings, too, with searches for “lab-grown engagement rings” up 436%.