As a wedding photographer who has been documenting love stories for over a decade, I love seeing what new trends are on the horizon! 2023 and 2024 are jam-packed with weddings and elopements, with plenty of unique elements. But one of the things I am noticing the most is that couples are ready to celebrate. They want to create unforgettable wedding weekends that bring everyone together. And maximalism is in! So many couples are embracing bolder colors, lots of texture, and unique attire. To give you some inspiration as you start planning, I wanted to share some of my favorite 2023 wedding trends.
Color
This is one of my favorite wedding trends for 2023! After two years of lockdown, couples want to plan an event that is fun, festive, and colorful. Bold splashes of color are here to stay, from ombre pastels to bright rainbow hues. Another popular color is red, with the Pantone Color Of The Year, Viva Magenta taking center stage. When it comes to color, it’s not just in the flowers either. Pops of color can be used throughout, from napkins to the wedding day paper. And don’t forget your attire! Wedding gowns with color and pattern are a huge trend, as are multi-hued bridesmaids’ dresses.
Live Painters
If you are looking for a memorable experience that also creates an heirloom keepsake, you will love hiring a live painter! These are talented artists who come to your wedding and setup a little area to paint a portrait of your day. You will pick a moment for them to paint, which is often the ceremony or first dance. These are always a hit with guests since they can watch the painting come to life! For Danielle and Matt’s wedding, they chose to have the painter, Hannah Lee, at the reception, and they even got to add in a few brush strokes themselves.
Outfit Changes
Little white dresses are making a comeback! Couples are looking for fun wardrobe changes so that they can dance all night long. Not only can this dress be short, but it could even be a simple sheath dress that lets you enjoy the evening without the weight of a heavy gown. Plus, you can re-wear it again and again! How cute would it be to bring out your Little White Dress for a romantic dinner on your honeymoon! An LWD is so versatile that you can wear it again and again.
Hanging Flower Installations And Texture
Flowers are not just for the tables! Hanging florals and large floral installations are becoming more and more popular, adding color and texture to the reception space. Another trend is woven baskets that can be hung from the ceiling or even turned into light fixtures. Soft cream fishing baskets make for a beautiful installation, especially when hung from Sperry tents.
Ceremony Tequila Shots
If you are looking for a unique ceremony event, take a shot! We are seeing couples take tequila shots after they say their vows, instead of a traditional unity candle. It’s a fun way to celebrate your vows while also easing some of those wedding-day nerves.
Sperry Tents
These unique open-air tents are perfect for an outdoor affair. The open-air environment lets guests feel comfortable while still protected from the heat and sun. Sperry Tents are nautical-inspired, and their iconic sailcloth fabric blends in with any environment. They also come in a variety of sizes for weddings of all sizes.
Local Favorites
Many of our couples want to share some of their favorite local flavors with their guests, and Austin has many to choose from! If you are a fan of BBQ, have your favorite BBQ as late-night snacks for guests. If you have welcome bags, you can add in some local items that guests can take home, like snacks and favors.
More Candid Portraits
Wedding photography is about capturing all the moments, posed and unposed! As a wedding photographer, I want you to feel comfortable and at ease so that you can enjoy every moment. In front of my camera, you’ll find a healthy mix of editorial direction and “hands-off” moments with your story at the center of it all, But most importantly, I will be there to photograph all of the essential moments. It’s about capturing a story that is true to you.
Cigar Rollers
Another wedding guest experience idea is hiring live cigar rollers. These are often part of the cocktail hour or the reception, in an outdoor space. They will typically provide some education and explain the process as they roll them, and you can even have custom labels made to provide an extra touch.
Floral Pattern Dance Floors
Did you know that dance floors don’t have to be parquet or tile pattern? You can now have dance floors covered in various patterns, including a floral motif! Elizabeth and Louis wanted their dance floor to be a focal point of the design, and their soft pastel dance floor was perfect and tied all of their details together.
Capturing The Whole Weekend
Wedding weekends are on the rise, with couples wanting to spend all weekend with their family and friends. This also means they want it to be documented! Your wedding is one of the only times you will have everyone you love in the same place at once, so photograph it all! As a photographer, I love capturing all the events, from welcome parties to rehearsal dinners.
Private Last Dance
Separate from the first dance, a private last dance is often done at the end of the night, after the guests have left the reception. This time alone gives the two of you one final moment to soak in all the joy from your wedding day! The beauty of this moment is that you can enjoy a private moment to remember.
Wow Moments With Pyrotechnics
Pyrotechnics are a fun way to dazzle your guests and give them a grand exit they will never forget. Or, you can have them around your dance floor for a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your first dance. If you plan on having a light show, let your photographer know so we can bring all the right equipment to capture the amazing show.
Live Bands
Hiring a live band will add an extra element to your wedding reception! The presence of a band instantly elevates the atmosphere, and guests always love singing along to live music. It also makes sure that the dance floor is never empty, since they can create more excitement and get people dancing!
2023 Wedding Trends
As you start planning your wedding, it is important to find wedding vendors that you truly connect with and trust. As a wedding photographer, I am here to capture every moment and be part of this journey together. Whether you are looking to elope just the two of you or want a large party with a weekend packed full of events, I would love to learn more! Reach out today, and let’s get started!
