2025 Wedding trends: from local celebrations to pre-loved gowns
The excitement is real! You just said yes, and now you're walking around with that rock on your finger.
But once the initial glow starts to settle, the big question hits: how and where do you even start planning a wedding?
Each journey is unique, both exciting and daunting, especially with the ever-changing trends that shape how couples celebrate their big day.
In 2025, wedding trends are taking a refreshing turn, focusing on meaning, sustainability, and personal storytelling. Before you start scrolling through Pinterest until your fingers cramp, take a moment to think about what kind of wedding feels right for you and your partner.
What’s the vibe?
Do you picture a grand celebration with 200 guests? Or maybe a small, intimate ceremony on a family farm?
This year, the trend is all about "experiences over extravagance" as Onwaba Gonyora, Director of Brahman Hills, puts it. Couples are leaning toward meaningful, intentional celebrations that reflect their unique love stories.
This might mean minimalist elegance as 2025 is all about simplicity with a touch of sophistication.
Couples are opting for understated elegance, replacing lavish décor with rows of candles, single statement blooms in delicate vases, or even greenery that feels fresh and timeless.
Couples are finding ways to stretch their budgets by embracing trends like:
Local weddings
Destination weddings may still hold appeal, but 2025 is seeing a rise in couples choosing to say "I do" closer to home. Local weddings allow couples to include more loved ones, avoid travel stress and keep costs manageable.
Brahman Hills, for example, has seen an increase in couples from Durban and surrounding areas opting for their stunning venue, shared Gonyora.
By staying local, couples can focus on meaningful connections with family and friends, ensuring that everyone they care about can be part of the celebration.
Cascading drapery
Soft drapery in neutral tones is transforming wedding venues into ethereal spaces. Imagine layers of cascading fabric framing the ceremony area, creating dreamy backdrops for exchanging vows.
This trend is perfect for couples looking to add subtle romance to their décor without overwhelming the space.
Think of it as a soft embrace that sets the stage for a memorable day. Whether it's paired with string lights or left to flow naturally in the breeze, draping adds charm and intimacy to any setting.
Pre-ceremony photos: Capturing the first look
Breaking tradition has never looked so romantic. More couples are opting for pre-ceremony "first look" photo sessions, where they share a private moment before walking down the aisle.
This trend not only creates beautifully candid, emotional photos (think teary-eyed grooms seeing their brides for the first time) but also helps streamline the day.
Guests won't be left waiting for hours between the ceremony and reception, making the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable.
For couples who value authenticity, candid photography is taking centre stage over posed portraits. The goal? Capturing raw, unfiltered emotions that tell the story of love and connection.
Cultural fusion: A celebration of unity
With cross-cultural relationships on the rise, weddings are becoming beautiful celebrations of diversity.
Couples are blending traditions, music, food, and attire from their respective cultures to create ceremonies that honour their backgrounds while celebrating their shared future.
Imagine a traditional Indian baraat paired with a Western-style wedding dress or an African-inspired menu alongside live jazz music. These unique combinations not only reflect the couple's identity but also make the event unforgettable for everyone involved.
Say yes to the dress: Pre-loved bridal gowns
Sustainability is stepping into the spotlight, with vintage and pre-loved wedding dresses gaining popularity. Brides are choosing gowns with history and charm, often at a fraction of the cost of new designs.
This trend is a win-win: it's eco-friendly and budget-friendly. Plus, it allows couples to allocate savings toward other priorities, like a dream honeymoon or an enchanting venue.
To add a modern twist, many brides are pairing their vintage finds with trending accessories, such as veils with intricate embroidery or dramatic lengths. It's the perfect blend of timeless and contemporary style.
This year's wedding trends are a reflection of modern values: intimacy, sustainability, and meaningful experiences.
Whether it's embracing minimalist elegance, blending cultural traditions, or choosing a venue that speaks to your heart, 2025 is all about celebrating love in personal and thoughtful ways.
As Onwaba Gonyora says, "Weddings in 2025 are about meaningful connections, intentional choices, and celebrating love in all its forms."
So, as you plan your wedding, remember: it's not about following every trend but finding what feels authentic to you.