The 2023 Wedding Trends We’re Excited to See This Year!

What’s the scoop for 2023 wedding trends? If you’re looking for inspiration for your 2023 wedding, you’ve come to the right place. Every year, the GWS editors love to discuss what trends we think will be big in the year to come. We’re taking a look at what sparked a flame in 2022 and what’s poised to totally take off this year. If last year’s trend forecast is any inclination, we’re pretty good at predicting the future if we do say so ourselves :)

Our favorite 2023 wedding trends cover everything from fashion to food to florals. We chat with industry insiders as well as our team who walks + talks weddings every day. :) We’re confident you’ll see these trends this year and we can’t wait to see how the GWS community of couples and wedding pros helps to evolve each! Let us know which are you most excited about!

1. Wedding Maximalism

Let’s start big with maximalism for weddings. A maximalist wedding is all about luxurious, over-the-top details that make it a truly memorable and indulgent experience for the couple and their guests. As opposed to the “less is more” design approach, maximalist weddings embrace doing more, more, more! Lots of colors, lots of patterns, and lots of textures! This could be just used for the reception space or the ceremony to different the two spaces – or it could be the overall theme of the wedding day! Maximalist weddings have a fun bold energy and really let the couple have a chance to let loose and give their guests something a bit different!

2. More Color!

Weddings in 2023 will be bringing back the COLOR! And we are loving it all! Jewel-toned, mismatched bridesmaids dresses, color-blocked florals for aisle decor. Think color but in a sophisticated and FUN style.

We can’t wait to see all of the bridal parties dressed in bright shades of pink, orange, and yellow (or other palettes that you’ll all surprise us with!) popping against the green grass and blue skies of 2023. And not to forget florals, we anticipate seeing many bridal bouquets with just a much color…mixed with vibrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, and red.

If color is what you’re going for, don’t sleep on the food! Food can be just as colorful as fashion and decorations, with various colorful dishes and drinks served up throughout the evening. Maybe a rainbow-colored dessert table filled with brightly colored sweets or a bar stocked with colorful cocktails and bubbly champagne is something to consider.

3. Love Drunk Blurry Photos as a 2023 Wedding Trend

Those of you going this route will likely say, “TikTok made me do it.” If you have a phone and you already spend any time on TikTok or Instagram, you already know that flash photography and blurry photos are bringing the heat and will become more popular this year as couples want a fun and unique look for their wedding memories.

When going this route, look for a skilled photographer capable of shooting with and producing film photos to ensure they can deliver the really cool, retro look you’re going for. Just know that the colors will be a little more muted as they produce a softer, more dreamy quality to the images. We’re big fans of this growing trend.

One of the things we love most about our retro wedding photography is when photographers use flash to capture some really cool and dramatic candid shots of the couple – plan some time during the night with your photographer to capture these fun shots! The bright, bold flash delivers that vintage feel and will certainly make your wedding photos stand out.

4. Custom Dance Floors

We all love a great dance floor and designers are taking it one step further with some amazing custom dance floors. Last year, we saw a floral-filled dance floor, a colorful checkered dance floor and a dance floor with an amazing floral + disco ball installation above! We can’t wait to see what 2023 brings!

There are so many different options for custom dance floors out there – so get creative and make your dance floor your own. If you are planning a colorful wedding, create a wedding dance floor that matches your color palette –  or even create a custom pattern or design.

How do you get your own custom dance floor?

The first thing you’ll want to do is start looking for vendors that offer this service….this is def not a task for someone new to wedding planning. There are lots of companies out there that specialize in custom dance floors, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find someone who can help you create the perfect one for your big day.

Once you’ve found a vendor, you’ll want to start brainstorming ideas for your custom dance floor. You can either go with a design that’s already available from the vendor or come up with something totally unique and custom. Be sure to share your vision and any inspo photos you have with the vendor, so they can get a feel for what you’re looking for.

Once you’ve decided on a design, your vendor will create a mock-up of the dance floor for you to approve. Once you’re happy with the final design, they’ll go ahead and create the actual dance floor, which will be installed at your reception venue on the day of your wedding. We can wait to see all the vids of you all dancing the night away on your custom dance floors!

5. Private Last Dance

We shared a few of these on Reels and TikTok this past year and see this growing in popularity in 2023. The day goes by so fast that this is the perfect time to really take it all in once more before the night is over. We’re also seeing a private first dance – this typically happens while the reception space is still being set up and the DJ is there testing the music and can play your song for the two of you before all your guests arrive. A fun way to get the nerves to disappear!

Why should we do a private last wedding dance?

First of all, a private last dance gives you and your partner a chance to really connect and be alone together after a day filled with family, friends, and wedding festivities. It’s a chance to take a deep breath, hold each other close, and just enjoy each other’s company.

It’s also a great way to make your wedding feel more personal and intimate, rather than just a big, public event. It gives you a chance to express your love and commitment to each other in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

How do we have a private last wedding dance?

• Choose a song that means something special to you both. It could be a song that you danced to on your first date, or one that you both love and have a special connection to.
• Let your DJ or band – as well as your wedding planner – know that you want to have a private last dance, and make sure they’re aware of the song you’ve chosen. You should do this during the planning process and remind them of your plans on your wedding day.
• When it’s time for the last dance, have your DJ or band announce that you’ll be having a private last dance. You can either go out on the dance floor alone, or ask your guests to clear the floor so you can have it all to yourselves.
• Take to the dance floor and enjoy your private moment together. It’s a chance to connect and be present with each other, which you’ll both treasure forever.

6. Terracotta Color Palettes as a 2023 Wedding Trend

So long, something blue. Hues of terracotta, copper and burnt sienna will be frequent guests at weddings this year according to Pinterest. Whether it’s your bridal party attire or floral arrangements, think orange. The search for a burnt orange wedding theme has increased on Pinterest over 695% with terracotta bridesmaid dresses and orange wedding centerpieces also growing in popularity….this probably explains why this terracotta wedding was the most popular wedding of 2022 on GWS!

What is a terracotta color palette?

For those of you who don’t know yet, a terracotta color palette is a warm, earthy color scheme that’s inspired by the rich, reddish-brown tones of terracotta clay. It includes shades of deep red, orange, and brown, and it’s perfect for a fall or rustic-themed wedding.

There are so many reasons why a terracotta color palette is a great choice for a wedding theme. First of all, it’s warm and inviting, and it really sets the mood for a cozy, romantic celebration. It also looks amazing against natural settings, like outdoor gardens or rustic barns, and it pairs well with natural materials like wood, stone, and greenery.

What are the best ways to incorporate terracotta colors into your wedding day?

• Use terracotta-colored linens and decor on your tables, like table runners, napkins, and centerpieces
• Dress your bridal party in shades of burnt orange and terracotta
• Incorporate terracotta-colored flowers and greenery into your bouquets and floral arrangements
• Use terracotta-colored accents in your wedding stationery

A terracotta color palette is a beautiful and unique choice for a wedding theme, and it’s sure to make your big day feel warm, cozy, and romantic. If you’re considering it for your own wedding, go for it – you won’t be disappointed!

7. Moissanite Rings

If you’re in the market for an engagement ring or wedding band, we think you should definitely consider moissanite as an option. At Green Wedding shoes, we’re big fans and already did a round ups of our fave 35 favorite moissanite rings.

Moissanite is a really popular choice these days for good reason! Not only are they a stunning alternative to diamonds, but they offer several benefits to a young couple.

First of all, moissanite is a really durable and hard gemstone, which makes it a good choice for everyday wear. It’s also resistant to scratching and chipping, so it should hold up well over time.

Another reason why moissanite is a good choice is because it’s much more affordable than other gemstones like diamonds. It has a similar sparkle and shine, but it’s much more budget-friendly, which is great if you’re looking to save some money on your ring.

Moissanite is also a more ethical and sustainable choice, as it’s lab-grown rather than mined. This means it has a smaller environmental impact and doesn’t contribute to conflicts or exploitation in the diamond industry.

8. Statement Aisles

A statement wedding aisle is a really fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your ceremony, and it’s something that your guests will definitely remember. We love how couples are pushing what their wedding aisle could look like! Some of our fave wedding designers are coming up with some of the most awe-inspiring wedding aisles – drawing inspo from fashion runways, interior design trends, and nature. We love the creativity and can’t wait to see what dreamy aisles couples will be dancing down in 2023!

How can you create your own statement wedding aisle?

• Start by brainstorming ideas that reflect your personal style and theme. You can get inspiration from our round up of wedding aisles we’re obsessed with, Pinterest, Instagram, or your own creativity!
• Work with your florist and wedding designer to bring your vision to life. They’ll be able to help you choose the right elements and make sure everything is set up perfectly on the day of your wedding.
• If you don’t have a wedding planner, consider hiring a planner or stylist if you need some extra help bringing your vision to life. They’ll be able to offer expert advice and make sure everything comes together seamlessly.

Bonus: If you need a song to walk down the aisle to, we’ve got you covered!

Overall, a statement wedding aisle is a great choice if you want to add a personal touch to your ceremony and set the tone for your reception. It’s definitely worth considering if you want to make your big day extra special!

9. Retro-Inspired Wedding Cakes

We started to see these a lot with elopements, but having a retro-inspired cake is really taking off! Lots of color, lots of over-the-top vibes, and lots of frosting! So, what is a retro wedding cake? It’s a cake that’s inspired by the styles and trends of a specific era, like the 50s or 60s. They often have fun, retro-inspired details like bold colors, patterns, and shapes. We love this trend as it adds a really unique and creative touch to your reception. It’s also a fun way to pay tribute to a specific era or style that you love!

How do I find a retro wedding cake?

• Start by selecting a specific era or style that you want to channel for your cake. This will help you narrow down your options and give you some direction.
• Look for a baker or cake designer with experience creating retro wedding cakes. You can find them by browsing our collection of the most beautiful wedding cakes, through referrals, online reviews, or by doing some research on your own.
• Work with your baker or cake designer to come up with a design that reflects your personal style and theme. They’ll be able to help you choose the right colors, patterns, and details to make your cake truly special.

2023 Wedding Trends: 10. Sustainability

We called sustainability a trend to watch in 2021 and we could not be happier to see it moving from a trend to a staple! So what’s different about 2023? Sustainable weddings are becoming more and more attainable across the board. No longer are we just talking about biodegradable cutlery, the big players from wedding dresses to engagement rings are stepping up to the plate. It’s easier for everyone to make sustainable choices — good news for all of us!

What are some tips to have a sustainable wedding?

• Choose a venue that’s environmentally friendly. Look for venues that have green initiatives in place, like solar panels or water conservation efforts.
• Go with a plant-based menu. Plant-based food has a smaller environmental footprint than meat-based options, so this is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Use eco-friendly decor. Look for decor made from sustainable materials, like bamboo or recycled paper, and consider using potted plants or flowers instead of cut ones to reduce waste.
• Choose vendors that are eco-conscious. Look for vendors who are committed to sustainability, like photographers who use digital cameras instead of film or bakers who use organic ingredients.
• Use eco-friendly invitations and stationery. Consider using recycled paper or digital invitations to reduce waste.
• Encourage guests to carpool or use public transportation. This will reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.
• Consider making a donation to an environmental charity in lieu of favors. This is a great way to give back and make your wedding even more meaningful.
• Pick your wedding dress from a growing selection of sustainable wedding dresses.
• Opt for lab-grown engagement and wedding rings instead of diamonds.

There are so many ways to make your wedding more sustainable, there’s really no reason not to consider at least a few of them. By choosing eco-friendly options and being mindful of your impact, you can have a beautiful and meaningful wedding that’s also good for the planet.

Wedding Fashion + Dress Trends for 2023

11. Colorful Wedding Dresses

If you’re planning your wedding and you’re thinking about wearing a colorful wedding dress, I’m here to tell you that it’s a fantastic idea! We saw so many brides rocking colorful gowns in 2022, and we expect to see this even more in 2023 weddings. A colorful wedding dress is such a fun and unique way to add some personality and flair to your big day, and there are so many amazing options out there to choose from. Floral gowns, pink wedding dresses, blue wedding dresses, or even a red wedding dress! We can’t wait for color in weddings this year!

12. Capes + Bows

Capes are the perfect way to add some drama and glamour to your wedding look, and they’re perfect for brides who want to make a statement. We love all the bow details we are seeing this year as well – on capes, dresses, shoes and hair accessories! Bring on the bows + capes!

“At WildBride we always love a beautiful clean ethereal veil, but we are super into something a little outside the box like a cape. We think capes are coming back in all sorts of shapes and sizes. You can find detachable embellished shoulder capes, or wings, as well as simple tulle capelets in different lengths. Another thing is the use of long flowy bows on the gown or big dramatic bows on the shoulders which we can’t get enough of. The best part of these new and exciting details is that the bride can customize how she wants to use the details in her wedding; have the cape/bows on for the ceremony, or as a fun edition in the reception.”

 

Samira Araghi, Owner + Founder, WildBride

13. Embroidered Veils

Embroidered veils, statement veils, sequin veils, fringe veils. We are here for it all and can’t wait to see all the creative brides rocking this trend this year! This is such a great way to add a new look for a more simple, classic gown – or to mix things up a bit. An embroidered wedding veil can be adorned with anything from intricate floral patterns to bold, geometric designs, and they’re a great way to add some personality and uniqueness to your wedding look.

14. Transformable Wedding Dresses

What is a transformable wedding dress?

It’s a dress that can be transformed into multiple different looks or styles, usually by adding or removing layers, sleeves, or other elements. This means you can switch up your look throughout the day and evening, depending on your mood and the events you have planned.

“This season, several amazing designers created dresses that can transform throughout the day, giving brides various ways to style their dream dress from ceremony to the afterparty. Brides can expect to find styles boasting everything from a detachable statement sleeve to fully detachable skirts that can transform from a ballgown to mini. It’s the ultimate have your cake and eat it too moment for a bride who doesn’t want to buy more than one dress.”

Ashley Hunt & Felicia Joffe, Founders, Dress Hunt

Why should I consider a transformable wedding dress?

They allow you to get multiple looks in one dress, which is perfect if you want to change things up for your reception or after-party. They’re also a great way to add some versatility and creativity to your wedding look, and they’re perfect for brides who want to have some fun with their attire.

15. Circularity with Wedding Gowns

“Sustainability is on everyone’s mind, and brides are looking for sustainable options for their wedding gown when it comes to sustainable materials and small batch production. But brides are also intrigued by the idea of “re-wear” and the ability to wear the gown after the wedding day. Whether it is hemming the dress to a shorter length, dyeing it, or making small alterations, it’s a fantastic way to continue the memories and stop the cycle of one-time wear.”

Michelle Yom, Co-Founder + Creative Director, Poémia