The wedding industry is no stranger to interesting trends. From the puffy and pastel bridesmaid dresses from the seventies and eighties to the photo in the brandy snifter …also from the seventies and eighties, there have been some interesting things that have come and gone in the wedding world. These days, however, there are a few trends that are here now, and even if they aren’t to stay, I enjoy them while we have them!
They are…
1. NON-SAND/NON-CANDLE UNITY CEREMONIES.
There are so many different ways to show unity today, it’s awesome. From mixing a signature cocktail and sipping it during the ceremony to combining glass beads that will become a vase for the home. These days, it doesn’t just have to be three candles or the mixing of sand to show your are joined together. I love that wedding trend.
2. FILM PHOTOGRAPHY.
A dear friend of mine had her wedding captured on film, and I have been enchanted by it ever since. There is something so organic, so authentic about film photography. You know the images are how the moment was. Nothing has been touched by a Photoshop brush, no effects have been added. Film photography allows for the memory in its purest form with the most minimal interferences of the camera on the memory. I am working towards incorporating more and more film coverage into my packages, but it is a work in progress.
3. VEIL-LESS BRIDES.
I didn’t expect this to ever be a wedding trend, but believe it or not I have shot more brides WITHOUT veils than with them. Veils are so incredibly gorgeous, but I have also loved seeing brides express themselves with their varying hair styles and jeweled pieces that accompany them.
4. SWEETHEART TABLES.
Head tables are always a joy, but there is something so, well, sweet, about the sweetheart table. This gives the couple a chance to be a little separated, a little more alone during their reception.
5. PHOTO ALBUM GUEST BOOKS.
This isn’t new, as it has been a trend in the industry for close to ten years (I remember my friend Katie doing this at her 2010 wedding). But I would be lying if I didn’t say I still love it. The yearbook nerd in me appreciates that it will allow you to look back and see who said what, rather than just whatever they may have scribbled down while drinking. I love this so much, it is actually a big reason why I have a photo booth stand for my couples to use (it prints and everything!); I like how this allows a little bit more documentation of the reception, so it is a trend I hope keeps hanging on for a while longer.
Weddings are such an amazing way to express a couple’s uniqueness in their love for one another. From those one-of-a-kind celebrations comes inspiration that leads to great ideas for other brides and grooms, which then creates the trends that flood Google Images and fill boards on Pinterest. Always be inspired, but also push to make your day YOURS and create something unique for your day!
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer who provides services to elegant, authentic, joyful couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest.
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer who provides services to elegant, authentic, joyful couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest.
