The 2024 wedding season is right around the corner, which means some new and gorgeous trends are in the spotlight! Last year, I highlighted some of my favorite trends, and I’m excited to bring you a new batch for what to expect in 2024. As a wedding photographer, I love seeing and documenting all of these fun designs. So today, I’m sharing all of my favorite trends – inspired by my own couples.
Venues Take Center Stage
I love how venues are at the forefront of design. A striking departure from traditional invitations, modern couples are including outlines and paintings of the venues onto invitations and detail cards. A recent couple, Audrey and Brandon, included a peacock on their invitations because their venue – Mattie’s Green Pastures in Austin – has an array of peacocks on the property!
Another couple, Danielle and Eric, also had a nod to their greenhouse location in their invitations. I loved the laser-intend invitation wraps with the ironwork of The Greenhouse At Driftwood.
If you prefer something more subtle, you can take inspiration from Audrey and Andrew, who added a custom watercolor of Omni Barton Creek to their invitation liner. In 2024, it’s not just about saying ‘I do’ but about curating an entire experience that begins with the first glimpse of an invitation!
Fashion Is All About Texture
As couples opt for multiple outfit changes on their big day, it’s no surprise that textured pieces are popular! From thick embroidered lace with a hint of 70’s vibes to lots of fringe, it’s all about making a statement. Recent bride Meredith chose an Oscar de la Renta Spring 2021, Look 8, that featured their signature exquisite hand embroidery.
For her second outfit, bride Claire chose a beaded and embroidered sheath that allowed her to dance the night away. Caroline chose a floral appliqué gown with a horsehair skirt for extra volume. But it’s not just the brides embracing texture – but the guests as well! For Meredith and Nate’s wedding, guests took their colorful wedding palette and chose gorgeous dresses, including patterns, ruffles, and colors!
Quiet Luxury
Bold texture not your cup of tea? Quiet luxury is becoming more popular, where less is more. Inspired by Sofia Richie’s French Riviera wedding, some couples opt for monochromatic color palettes, simple silhouettes, and posey bouquets. My couple, Charlotte and Patrick, were the epitome of quiet luxury! Their wedding at Commodore Perry Estate was designed around exquisite details, starting with their classic letterpress invitations. Charlotte chose a posey bouquet of lily of the valley and gardenias, also included in the wedding decor.
Taylor and Michael focused on green and white, with roses and baby breath as the focal flowers. Every single piece was elegant and understated!
Maximalism, Pattern & Color Is Still In
Like 2023, we are seeing color and maximalism continue to be big! And it’s not just about bold color – but in the little details. Hayli and Brett had a unique ceremony stage to take their wedding to the next level! Ensuring every guest had a remarkable view, this ribbed design with a marble floor added elegance. Another place to include a pattern? Your dance floor! I started seeing this in 2023, and I can’t wait to see all the fun designs couples have!
Anna and Jacob embraced color and incorporated shades of coral pink, orange, yellow, blue, and green throughout their wedding details. Their love of color also played into the wedding party; bridesmaids wore mismatched dresses in shades of pink, yellow, and orange and floral patterns.
Bringing The Forest Indoors
For a touch of nature within your wedding reception decor, consider the dramatic impact of incorporating live, potted trees. Nurseries often offer rental options, providing a sustainable choice for couples who want to include lots of greenery. Alternatively, you can purchase the trees and later plant them at your home. Meg and Cal chose to bring in tall trees that were placed around the reception at The Arlo, which also brought the eye up to the ceiling, where large chandeliers were covered in draping greenery.
Danielle and Eric decided to host their reception at The Greenhouse At Driftwood and have portraits taken inside the greenhouse. To add in greenery at their tented reception on the property, they hung hundreds of tulips from the tent above their cake! Whether you’re seeking an organic ambiance, a break from traditional florals, or a textured aesthetic, tree centerpieces are a unique and attention-commanding choice!
Hybrid Film Photography
Not only do we photograph digitally, but you can also add on 35mm film! I started shooting photography on 35mm, so it is such a personal medium that I hold dear to my heart. We offer a variety of add-ons, including adding a team member to shoot the whole event on film. Or, we can do scattered moments throughout the day so that you can have a beautiful variety. Meredith & Nate chose to add film to their wedding and rehearsal dinner. I love how the film’s warmth captures the moments so effortlessly.
A Full Wedding Weekend
This trend started popping up in 2023 and is here to stay! So many of my couples embrace a full weekend of events so that they can spend even more time with their loved ones. From a cocktail party the night before to post-wedding brunch (or even a pool party like Meg & Cal did!) I can be there to photograph it all!
Food & Drinks Get Creative
For couples in 2024, it’s not just about good food but crafting personalized menus and incorporating unique ingredients! Whether it means adding in some late-night snacks or creating a custom menu that fits you as a couple, it’s time to get creative! Bars are also becoming a focal point of the cocktail hour and reception. And remember your martini! These drinks are on the rise.
2024 Wedding Trends
No matter what trends you decide to include in your wedding, I would love to be there to capture it all! Whether you want 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!
