Top 20 Worst Wedding Trends
When it comes to planning a wedding, navigating the ever-changing trends can feel like a challenge. Amidst the excitement and the desire to make the day unique, it’s easy to fall into the trap of embracing trends that may not stand the test of time. From weekday weddings to excessive wedding favors, we’re shining a light on 20 current wedding trends that might not be as great as they seem. These trends, while popular, have their own set of drawbacks that might make you think twice before incorporating them into your big day.
1. Overly Scripted Social Media Posts
Overly scripted social media posts meticulously plan and share every moment of the wedding day on various platforms. Couples hire social media coordinators for hashtags, tweets, and Instagram updates. Choreographed dances and staged photos are planned to create a social media spectacle, overshadowing genuine, spontaneous moments that make a wedding day truly special.
2. Extravagant Wedding Proposals
Extravagant wedding proposals are popular due to social media, as people seek memorable and shareable moments. They often involve elaborate plans, expenses, and even crowds.
For instance, proposals may occur in unique locations like hot air balloons or ski slopes, or involve choreographed dances and public spectacles. Grand gestures such as skywriting or city-wide scavenger hunts are also common, along with surprise flash mobs.
While these proposals can be exciting, critics argue they overshadow the true purpose – a private and intimate commitment. The focus becomes the spectacle, not the sincerity.
Moreover, extravagant proposals create financial strain and unrealistic expectations for the wedding itself.
3. Micro Weddings
Micro weddings, with 20-50 guests, originated as a response to COVID-19 but continue for their intimacy and affordability.
However, challenges accompany micro weddings. Limiting the guest list can lead to difficult decisions and hurt feelings among those not invited. Although some costs decrease, expenses like photography and decor remain the same, potentially resulting in higher costs per guest.
Regret is another issue, as some couples long to celebrate with all their loved ones present. Consequently, micro weddings have become a contentious trend in the wedding industry.
4. Over-the-top Wedding Hashtags
Wedding hashtags have become popular on social media, consolidating posts about the wedding. They often use the couple’s names creatively, like #TomAnnaGetMarried or #SmithlyEverAfter.
While fun, these hashtags can feel overused and cliche. Some couples strive for uniqueness but end up with overly complicated, long, or hard-to-remember hashtags.
Over-the-top hashtags can distract from the true celebration and meaning of the wedding day. Additionally, the trend is losing appeal as more couples choose a traditional, less social media-focused approach.
5. Excessive Wedding Favors
Excessive wedding favors involve providing lavish or numerous gifts to guests. While the sentiment is appreciated, it can result in unnecessary waste and add significant costs to the wedding budget.
Guests often don’t need or want these items, making the favors less appealing. The average spending on wedding favors in 2019 was $400, money that could be allocated elsewhere or saved.
However, the trend is declining as couples opt for meaningful, practical, or charitable options. This includes donations to charities, immediate edible treats, or heartfelt thank-you notes, focusing on more thoughtful gestures for their guests.
6. Unnecessary Drone Photography
Unnecessary drone photography involves using drones to capture aerial shots or videos during wedding ceremonies or receptions. While drones offer unique perspectives and dramatic footage, their use at weddings has become controversial.
Drones can be noisy and distracting, disrupting the ceremony or the event’s ambience. Guests may feel uncomfortable or watched, diminishing their enjoyment.
Not all venues permit drone usage due to safety concerns, privacy laws, or restrictions in certain areas.
Furthermore, hiring a professional drone operator adds significant cost to the wedding budget. While visually impressive, drone footage may not hold substantial value compared to cherished candid, close-up shots that capture emotions.
In summary, while drone photography sounds appealing, its drawbacks make it an unnecessary and potentially troublesome addition to many weddings.
7. Pre-wedding Boudoir Shoots
Pre-wedding boudoir shoots involve the bride-to-be posing in lingerie or partially clothed in a romantic setting. While some find these shoots empowering, they have faced criticism for various reasons.
They can impose pressure on brides to conform to beauty standards, causing stress during an already high-pressure time.
These shoots can also feel unnatural or uncomfortable if the bride isn’t at ease, which can be reflected in the photos.
Additionally, they add to the overall expenses of the wedding, which can already be costly.
Critics argue that while the concept may suit some individuals, it shouldn’t be seen as a necessary or standard part of wedding preparations. Instead, the focus should remain on the love and commitment between the couple.
8. Weekday Weddings
Weekday weddings are ceremonies and receptions held from Monday to Thursday, gaining popularity due to cost savings and better venue/vendor availability.
However, weekday weddings present challenges for guests, especially those traveling. They may need to take time off work, arrange childcare, or face logistical hurdles.
If the wedding runs late, guests might leave early to prepare for the next day, affecting the event’s atmosphere.
While weekday weddings benefit couples financially and with vendor availability, they can compromise the overall guest experience. Considering these factors is crucial before planning a weekday wedding.
9. Edible Bouquets
Edible bouquets, made from fruits, vegetables, herbs, or candy, are a unique trend as an alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
However, they have practical drawbacks. Edible bouquets can be heavy and difficult to carry. Depending on the ingredients and the environment, they may wilt, bruise, or even rot.
Furthermore, while fun, bouquets made of unconventional items may clash with more traditional or formal wedding themes, affecting the overall aesthetic.
While it appeals to some, the edible bouquet trend may not be suitable for everyone and can bring more hassle than desired.
10. Identical Bridesmaids Dresses
The tradition of dressing bridesmaids in identical dresses originated from the belief of protecting the bride from evil spirits. Today, it is mostly done for aesthetic purposes and to create a cohesive look in wedding photos.
However, this trend is viewed as outdated by many. Critics argue that it disregards the individual body shapes, skin tones, and personal styles of the bridesmaids. Dresses that flatter one person may not suit another, leading to discomfort and lack of confidence on the wedding day.
Identical bridesmaid dresses can also feel impersonal and generic. Couples are now prioritizing inclusivity and personal expression by allowing their wedding party to showcase their individuality while coordinating the overall look. This can involve selecting a color palette or dress length and giving each bridesmaid the freedom to choose a style that makes them feel their best.
In contemporary wedding planning, inclusivity and personal expression are key considerations. As a result, the trend of identical bridesmaid dresses is often seen as one of the least favorable current wedding trends.
11. Grand Entrances
A grand entrance at a wedding involves a flashy arrival of the newlyweds at the reception, such as by horse-drawn carriage, vintage car, boat, or helicopter.
While impressive, this trend is considered unnecessary and excessive by many. Critics argue that grand entrances prioritize spectacle over the emotional significance of the day.
Moreover, these entrances can be costly and logistically complex, potentially causing delays in the schedule.
Increasingly, couples are opting for simpler, more personal entrances that reflect their unique personalities. They prioritize creating genuine and heartfelt moments over making a big impression, as these are more likely to be cherished and remembered in the long run.
12. Neon Signage
Neon signage is a popular trend in weddings, adding a vibrant and modern touch to the decor. Custom-made signs with colorful glass tubes create eye-catching displays. Personalized messages and placement enhance the aesthetic, serve as backdrops for photos, and set a lively ambiance. It’s crucial to ensure the signage complements the overall theme and style of the wedding. Neon signage allows couples to add personalization and style to their special day.
13. Overuse of Mason Jars
The overuse of mason jars in wedding decor has become a prevalent trend, but it can lead to a lack of originality and a generic feel. Using mason jars for various purposes, from centerpieces to drinkware, has become cliché and overshadowed other creative options.
Additionally, sourcing and decorating numerous mason jars can be time-consuming and costly. Couples should consider alternative and personalized decor options that better align with their style and vision. Incorporating a variety of materials, textures, and colors can create a more unique and memorable wedding ambiance.
14. Uncomfortable Shoes
Uncomfortable shoes at weddings can detract from the enjoyment of the event. Prioritizing style over comfort can lead to discomfort and pain. Offering alternative footwear options like flip-flops or encouraging guests to wear comfortable shoes can alleviate this issue. Brides can choose stylish and comfortable shoes or have backup pairs for the reception. By prioritizing comfort, everyone can fully enjoy the wedding celebration without discomfort.
15. Pets in Weddings
Including pets in weddings has become popular, adding a personal touch to the celebration. Pets can play various roles or simply be present. However, factors such as venue permission, allergies, and safety concerns must be considered. Assessing the pet’s temperament and comfort is essential. With proper planning, including pets can create heartfelt moments and celebrate the couple’s bond with their furry companion.
16. Releasing Sky Lanterns
Releasing sky lanterns at weddings creates a magical ambiance, but safety and environmental concerns need consideration. Sky lanterns involve fire hazards and can cause damage if they drift and land in unintended areas. They contribute to litter and pollution, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Local regulations may restrict their use. Couples can explore safer alternatives like LED or biodegradable lanterns to create a magical atmosphere while prioritizing safety and environmental responsibility.
17. Overly Themed Weddings
Overly themed weddings can overshadow the couple and their story, becoming disconnected from their identity. Extensive themes can be costly and limit creativity and flexibility. Balancing the theme with personalization and authenticity creates a more meaningful experience.
18. Gimmicky Wedding Invitations
Gimmicky wedding invitations can overshadow important information and be costly and time-consuming to create. Some may be impractical for guests. Balancing creativity with clarity is crucial. Simple and elegant designs can effectively convey necessary information while reflecting the couple’s style.
19. Cash Bars
Cash bars at weddings have mixed opinions and considerations. They manage costs but can create a negative impression among guests. Some couples opt for partially subsidized bars as a compromise. The decision depends on budget, cultural expectations, and guest preferences. Clear communication is important to set expectations.
20. Long Speeches
Long speeches at weddings can become tedious and lose guests’ attention. They disrupt the flow and timing of the event, potentially causing delays. Speakers should aim for concise, meaningful messages to maintain engagement. It’s recommended to keep speeches around 3-5 minutes per speaker for a balanced program. Communication with speakers and setting time limits and content guidance can enhance the overall experience.
As we’ve explored these 20 wedding trends, it’s clear that what’s popular isn’t always what’s best. Whether it’s unnecessary drone photography, over-the-top wedding hashtags, or identical bridesmaid dresses, these trends can detract from the true focus of your wedding day – celebrating your love with the people who matter most. So, as you plan your wedding, remember that trends come and go, but the memories you create will last a lifetime. Consider what truly reflects your style and values as a couple. After all, your wedding day is about you and your partner, not the trends of the moment.
