Seeking answers, we sat down with 10 respected industry-insiders across Australia and New Zealand (from planners and designers to florists, stylists and filmmakers) discovering that this year, couples are stepping away from performance and toward presence; prioritising the feeling of the day itself rather than the optics. In short, weddings in 2026 aren't necessarily becoming bigger or busier, but they will be sharper in intention. Couples are choosing meaning over momentum, intimacy over obligation and there is a growing confidence in doing less, but doing it well, a shift that Laice and Doug Bollen from Place of LB describe as “emotional… understated luxury.”

Fashion is leading this evolution, with creative black tie and reimagined classics replacing trend-chasing, while floristry, food and film are prioritising atmosphere, texture and narrative impact. Tradition isn’t being discarded but reinterpreted as the modern wedding becomes less about staging moments for others, and more about couples being able to inhabit one for themselves. In 2026, the celebration still matters, but it’s the feeling that leads.

Here, some of the most respected names in the industry deliver their predictions on what weddings will look like in the year ahead. And by all accounts, it's going to be a good one.

LILLIAN KHALLOUF

Designer

“...there’s a clear shift toward prioritising joy, emotional connection, and the celebration of love — creating an experience that feels meaningful rather than performative.”

Couples will care less about guest counts, expectations, and obligation. There’s a shift toward prioritising joy, emotional connection, and the celebration of love — creating an experience that feels meaningful, intentional, emotionally grounded, and deeply personal rather than performative.

Joyful. Present. Expressive. Couples are focused on energy — how the day feels — and on being fully present with one another and their guests. It’s less about perfection and more about warmth, shared moments, and genuine celebration.

A return to vintage and traditional elements reimagined through a modern lens: opulent fabrics, silk, artisanal finishing, and a less “over-polished” aesthetic. Transitional gowns and relaxed tailoring are rising. The look is timeless, but lived-in.

What feels most exciting is the confidence couples now have in expressing their personal style. When they commit to what feels like them, the result is original by default.

There’s a move toward intimacy and personalisation. Smaller gatherings and clearer intention feel meaningful.

Seek support. Delegate logistics. Choose what reflects who you are, not what’s trending.

MICHELE COOMEY

Florist

"I’m hoping we will see less trend driven details (please no more ciggies and matchboxes)... Focus on a few hero pieces done really well.”

I love an elaborate and dramatic element but only if it makes sense. And so I’m hoping we will see less trend driven details (please no more ciggies and matchboxes). I think couples will do away with all the unnecessary details that don’t add to their story.

In the floral world we are guiding our couples to ply themselves away from Pinterest. We’re encouraging unexpected colour palettes and more thought about place and how it relates to their styling.

Dramatic and theatrical. Drapery is everywhere—from airy voiles to heavy velvet.

En masse floral design. Sculptural stems. Textural elements. Bold form. Experimentation.

I love the idea of couples choosing more remote locations with smaller guest lists. Can you imagine a wedding on a heritage boat in the Milford Sound or travelling by a steam train to a small town venue? I’m dying for this to happen. Make it more about the journey and not just about a big tent in a field.

Both. It depends on personality and story. Smaller guest lists + bigger personalities can be magic.

Don't get bogged down with thinking that you need everything, everywhere, all at once. Choose a few hero moments, consider how you want your day to feel and trust your florist (they know exactly what works and have the knowledge and skill to make something amazing out of nothing if required).

LAICE & DOUG BOLLEN

Planners, Place of LB

“It's important to cut through the noise and bring it back to who you are as a couple… that is how the most unique moments come to life. It is also where the magic happens.”

It’s hard to picture what couples will care less about because everything still holds value, but we’re seeing emphasis shift toward the feeling of the day itself. Couples want to be present and involved. Socials and visuals can feel overwhelming — sentiment is becoming a better starting point.

Emotional. Low key in a big way. Understated luxury. Refreshed.

A culinary journey at the forefront. Weddings that feel like events in the sense of their creative production (not necessarily scale). More inspiration drawn from fashion.

Well, this would be our secret!

It’s dividing. Some weddings are bold; others are being stripped back. We love the balance — it’s 50/50.

Cut through the noise. Bring it back to who you are as a couple. Book a team you love and trust, then let them work their magic.

MURRAY CRANE

Tailor, Crane Brothers

“Weddings in 2026 are defined by intention and confidence rather than tradition or spectacle.”

Less about prescribed rules; more about intention and confidence. Choices feel personal, considered and genuinely reflective of who they are rather than driven by external pressure.

Expressive, confident, considered. More atmosphere, less pressure.

Creative black tie with colour, drape and fashion influence. We are seeing richer colour palettes, more fluidity and a clear influence from contemporary fashion rather than traditional wedding rules or fixed dress codes. How it feels to wear is becoming just as important as how it looks, and that shift defines 2026.

Restraint rather than novelty. The most modern weddings are reinterpreting classic ideas instead of chasing what is next.

Weddings are becoming more intimate at their core, even when they are expressive. The expression feels purposeful and rooted in personality rather than scale or spectacle. It is less about performance and more about shared experience.

Make clear decisions early and trust the people you choose to work with. The strongest weddings come from alignment and confidence. When decisions are made with clarity , everything else falls into place.

HELEN RODRIGUES

Bridal Boutique Owner

“This is the year personalisation reaches new heights — especially through multi-sensory design.”

Couples are moving away from overly traditional, one-size-fits-all weddings. Cookie-cutter formats and rigid “rules” — like strictly white weddings or formal banquet layouts — are fading. Brides are not looking to follow trends; instead, they’re using this moment to be the best version of themselves. There is also a shift away from minimalism for minimalism’s sake. While clean design still has a place, weddings that feel stripped of personality are less compelling than those with richness, meaning and narrative.

That said, personalisation and expression will matter. The weddings we’re involved in are highly bespoke — from colour palettes tied to a couple’s story to scent-infused experiences and interactive elements. Sustainability and mindful luxury also matter deeply, with ecological choices around gowns, décor and zero-waste ceremonies becoming front of mind. Versatility in fashion is key too — brides want dresses that move with them, with detachable elements, second looks for the reception, and mix-and-match pieces growing in popularity.

Expressive, intentional, sensory and joyous.

In bridal, we’re seeing colour and nuance come through: soft pastels, champagne, blush and subtly tinted gowns, moving away from pure white. Versatility is huge, with detachable skirts, capes and sleeves allowing seamless transitions throughout the day. Statement details like pearls, architectural silhouettes and bold sleeves are adding personality and drama. There’s also a move away from second dresses, with more focus on one exceptional gown and how it can be styled differently for the reception via removing a train, or adding opera-length gloves or statement earrings etc.

Rather than something entirely new, 2026 feels like the year personalisation reaches new heights, particularly through multi-sensory design. Signature scenting to create an olfactory memory of the day, immersive texture-rich environments that feel more like art installations, and content-friendly moments designed with intention are becoming part of experiential storytelling rather than surface-level styling.

Both — with a much more intentional balance. Smaller, meaningful celebrations with close family and friends are rising, but couples also want moments that feel vibrant and expressive. Weddings are personal at heart and expressive in style — not one or the other.

Focus on authentic storytelling. Instead of chasing trends, integrate elements that are meaningful to you — a palette inspired by a favourite place, florals that tell your story, or a dress silhouette that reflects your personality. That authenticity always translates beautifully in both memories and imagery. And plan early. Venues and gowns are booking far in advance, and 2026 dates are already in high demand.

OPHELIA HARRADINE BAYLY & OPHELIA MIKKELSON JONES

Photographers, Poet Pictures

“They will care less about what everything looks like and more about just being in the moment and soaking up the love.”

Given the state of the world… and the complex backdrop to everyday modern life, we think they will care less about what everything looks like and more about just being in the moment and soaking up the love. Weddings are the bursts of light in the dark and wonderful reminders that there is just so much love around. We think people will be leaning into that sentiment more than ever before.

Authentic. Emotional. Joyful.

Restaurant catering (people are finding ways to keep the food personal and creative). Small weddings (nearest and dearest only). Private venues (the bonus of smaller more intimate weddings means more choice with venues, we are seeing a lot of private houses, gardens and galleries being used). Mismatched bridal parties (let the girls dress themselves! We are also seeing a real drop-off in traditional bridal and grooms parties in general). Relaxed brides (stressy brides are out, gracious kind generous and excited brides are in! Weddings are a lot to organise but we are seeing all brides throw in the towel come the big day, not worry about what they have control over and just let loose and enjoy themselves). Candid imagery and a focus on film (couples increasingly know what they want when it comes to photography, and the images they will truly treasure are simple portraits and real moments). Couples trusting their own creative visions (and leaning into their personalities to bring their day to life). Chic as hell guest fits. Conscious choices over excess (people are more and more aware of waste and consumption in a heavy capitalist world and we’re seeing a lot of thrifting for vintage table wear, re-working of vintage gowns… conscious choices around catering, clever reuse of flower arrangements throughout the day).

Colour on both bride and groom. Expressive tailoring.

Hopefully more intimate. Expression is beautiful, but it isn’t the point.

Write a priority list. Cut what doesn’t align. Hire a coordinator if it’s over 70 guests. And take time during the planning or the night before or even just the hours before to remember why you are doing this. It’s love and celebrating your person and your relationship and all the beautiful souls who play a part in your lives! Nothing else really matters in the end!

RAEESAH SACHA

Hair & Makeup Artist

“We will be seeing more diversity in wedding beauty.”

There is a beautiful, safe and welcoming move leaning more into self and individuality that is growing in the wedding industry, which is truly incredible to witness. It is becoming less about the optics and more about who are we that we want to showcase and how can we bring this feeling forward.

Rooted in purpose and love. Commercialisation takes a back seat.

Individualised beauty. Less copying references. More diversity, more enhancement and more storytelling.

I feel there is a rise in demand for collaboration when it comes to curating a bridal beauty look. This is not something revolutionary, but there is a move away from formulaic beauty to individualised beauty. More intention, more creative expression and more story to the beauty. This notion comes from my perspective working predominantly in the fashion realm and bringing that expertise and creativity into wedding beauty.

It definitely is the former with considered expression. Some people mistakenly think that if they don't follow a trend then they are making a stance of wanting to be different, others think that keeping things intimate and personal is about minimalism. This isn’t always true. Now it's about purpose and intention. That drives the day.

Sit with the feeling first before looking for images and inspiration. Ask how do I want to feel, what am I hoping to convey and how do I feel like the most beautiful version of myself? The references can become overwhelming. Do you like it because it’s what you are seeing a lot of? How can you make it your own? Also, start the skin prep early — nothing elaborate, just consistent.

MOON & BACK

Videographers

“The 'why' is mattering more than ever with our clients.”

The 'why' matters most. With the social media landscape being what it is, it's very easy to become swept up in the content of what's shown online. Now, clients are realising that film and photography are emotional heirlooms, and the personal, intimate moments matter most.
One of our favourite conversations with a client referenced the groom placing gloves on his mother’s hands to keep her warm during the reception. This simple act of love and devotion was one of the most touching moments that we had captured on film for them. It evoked so many feelings that could not be expressed had it not been captured. The groom's mum has now sadly passed away and so this singular moment will be cherished for a lifetime.

Personal, expressive, emotional.

Trends always come and go constantly in videography. For us it has always been about staying true to our style and how we can elevate it outside of what is currently trending.

There are so many interesting elements happening in weddings that may not be recognised, with couples hosting amazing events for themselves, their friends and families without sharing on social media. And so, there are never-before-seen happenings at weddings all the time. The past year alone, we filmed experiences multiple times that were one of a kind, although it's always completely unique to the couple.

It depends on the client, along with the vendor team they select. We are lucky that our clients tend to lean more towards personal and expressive weddings, which are true to themselves and their lifestyles, meaning there isn't really a mention of trends or performance because it's about them and what they love, and how they want to share that with their guests.

For videography purposes, I'd suggest watching a range of different couples from the same videographer to see how they capture events overall, including different personalities, different traditions etc. This will give a more accurate representation of their abilities, vision and execution. Ask yourself, does it draw you in? Do you connect with it? Do you feel like you were there?

PATRICK JOHNSON

Tailor, P. Johnson

“More formal. More classical. More intimate. More personal. More elegant.”

Wedding numbers - we sense the invite lists are shrinking a little. I think people will head to the tried-and-tested, certainty and reliability of more classical formal looks like evening wear.

More formal. More classical. More intimate. More personal. More elegant. There is a confidence around going smaller.

Increased use of black tie / dinner looks, which historically is a faux-pas in the Western wedding context because dinnerwear was for dinner, and morning dress was for weddings. That said, it appears black tie is the new morning dress (in Australia, at least). We have seen an uptick in morning dress however and fewer destination weddings which might be seen as too much of a tax on the guests. We're also predicting more silk in mens dressing this year… there is a maturity to it and a beautiful non-garish side to be explored. Duppione, moire, brushed, Shantung etc..

Not especially, but a significant number of people opting for low-key charming restaurant weddings over larger venues.

More intimate and personal for sure. Why, we are not sure! But it is definitely the trend. Such is the zeitgeist. I think restraint is en vogue.

Never hesitate to be very clear about dress code. Go into detail if necessary rather than using an interpretable word like ‘formal’ (which is open to interpretation). If you want everyone to look their best, be more explicit about what you want your guests to wear, less uncertainty will mean you foot les phone calls about it too. For example “Men, please wear a dark suit and a tie”.

ALICE HAYES

Designer, Hayes Bridal

“I highly doubt the latest TikTok transition trend is going to be something you’ll be glad you spent time on when you look back in 30 years.”

I hope couples will care a little less about executing every tiny detail and lean more into wedding days that might feel a little less polished but more raw, honest and emotional.

Personal and romantic. In an endless sea of options couples are finding fresh and unique ways to celebrate their love that feel true to them... and romance is certainly not dead!

Moving slightly away from super clean lines and embracing softness, texture and detail, whether that be in fabric choice or the use of drape, pleating, contrasting trims, rosettes. This I why I love working with beautiful natural fabrics like silk dupion. There is so much you can do with the texture and volume but it never feels too heavy.

Nothing specific comes to mind, but the shift toward authenticity feels new.

It feels like weddings are heading to either extreme. It’s easy to sway into something grand and performative with how much emphasis can be put on content and aesthetics. That can look amazing in photos but I think a more intimate and personal event feels more special. As a guest you remember how the day felt rather than how it looked.

1. Write a list of the things that feel most important and authentic to you at the start. It is so easy to get swept up along the way. Create something to come back to that can keep you grounded in your decisions.

2. Really be there on the day. As present as possible in every moment. Of course you want to document your day and make sure precious memories are captured, but I highly doubt the latest TikTok transition trend is going to be something you’ll be glad you spent time on when you look back in 30 years. Find a photographer/videographer you love and trust them to take care of it.