How Weddings Have Changed in the Last 10 Years

Discover how weddings have transformed over the past decade, from rising costs and smaller guest lists to the impact of technology, social media, and sustainability. Learn about the shift towards personalised and eco-friendly weddings, the influence of economic and social factors, and predictions for future trends, including AI-powered planning and immersive experiences. Whether you’re planning a wedding or just curious about how traditions evolve, this article explores the key changes from 2015 to 2025 and what’s next for modern weddings.

Weddings have always been a reflection of the times, and over the last decade, I’ve had a front-row seat to the way they’ve changed. Traditions that once seemed set in stone have shifted—sometimes dramatically—as social values evolve, technology races ahead, and financial realities hit home. What was once expected, like a formal church ceremony or a packed guest list, is now just one of many options. And if there’s one thing I’ve noticed as a photographer, it’s that couples today prioritise personalisation over convention, making their weddings as unique as their love stories.

Weddings Then vs Now: What’s Changed?

The Cost Factor

Let’s be honest—weddings have never been cheap. But in the last ten years, costs have skyrocketed. Back in 2015, the average wedding budget was already a hefty sum, but it was still within reach for many couples. Fast forward to 2025, and inflation, demand for personalised experiences, and the rising cost of venues and suppliers mean that weddings are more expensive than ever. Couples today are either spending more or getting creative with their budgets—hence the rise of micro-weddings and elopements. Intimate, budget-friendly celebrations have become a practical (and stylish) alternative to breaking the bank.

Guest Lists Are Shrinking

A decade ago, a wedding with 100–200 guests was fairly standard. The bigger, the better, right? Not so much anymore. Smaller, more intimate celebrations have taken centre stage, partly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which changed the way we think about big social gatherings. Couples now lean towards quality over quantity, inviting only their closest friends and family. The result? More meaningful interactions and a less stressful day for the couple.

Personalisation is Everything

Back in 2015, themed weddings were starting to gain popularity, but tradition still held strong. Fast-forward to today, and weddings are highly individualised. It’s no longer just about picking a colour scheme—it’s about creating an experience that reflects the couple’s personality, values, and interests. That means non-traditional wedding attire, unique venues (think forests, warehouses, or back gardens), and ceremonies tailored to the couple rather than tradition. Want to swap vows in a canoe? Go for it. Prefer a rock concert vibe over a classic first dance? No one’s stopping you.

The Role of Technology & Social Media

A decade ago, wedding hashtags were just starting to trend. Now, technology is at the heart of wedding planning and documentation. Couples are live-streaming their ceremonies for guests who can’t attend, sharing behind-the-scenes moments on TikTok, and even using AI-generated wedding videos. Some weddings now feature QR codes on tables linking to digital guestbooks or charity donation pages instead of traditional gifts. Technology isn’t just a tool anymore—it’s shaping the entire experience.

Sustainability and Ethical Choices

Couples today are more eco-conscious than ever. Sustainable weddings are no longer a niche concept; they’re becoming mainstream. More couples are choosing second-hand wedding dresses, biodegradable confetti, and plant-based menus. Ethical considerations also play a big role—there’s more emphasis on supporting local suppliers, using ethical wedding rings, and ensuring that every part of the celebration aligns with their values.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

There’s no single reason for this shift—it’s a mix of cultural, economic, and technological influences:

Social Trends: Younger generations prioritise experiences and authenticity over formalities. There’s less pressure to stick to tradition and more freedom to do things their way.
Financial Realities: The rising cost of living means couples have to be smarter about their spending. Many are choosing smaller, more personal celebrations rather than splurging on a one-day event.
Technology: With wedding planning apps, Pinterest boards, and AI-powered tools at our fingertips, it’s never been easier to personalise a wedding. DIY elements and creative touches are more accessible than ever.
Environmental Awareness: Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a necessity. More couples are making choices that align with their ethical and environmental values.

What’s Next for Weddings?

Looking ahead, weddings are only going to keep evolving. We could see AI-powered wedding planning become standard, with chatbots helping couples design their day and automated systems scouting venues. Multi-day celebrations with immersive elements, like VR storytelling or live art experiences, may become more common. The shift towards simplicity and experience-driven weddings will likely continue, with more couples prioritising meaning over extravagance. And sustainability? Expect it to move from a “nice-to-have” to the default way of doing things.

Final Thoughts

Despite all these changes, one thing has remained constant: weddings are about celebrating love and commitment. How couples choose to do that has evolved, but the heart of it stays the same. Whether you’re planning a small, eco-friendly gathering or a high-tech, interactive wedding, the most important thing is that it reflects who you are. Because at the end of the day, the best weddings aren’t the ones that follow the rules—they’re the ones that feel right for you.

Keywords for SEO:

Wedding trends
Modern weddings
Wedding costs
Wedding budgets
Intimate weddings
Micro-weddings
Wedding personalisation
Wedding themes
Social media weddings
Wedding technology
Live-streamed weddings
AI wedding planning
Sustainable weddings
Ethical weddings
Eco-friendly weddings
Wedding guest lists
Wedding traditions
Wedding planning evolution
Future wedding trends
Minimalist weddings

Christopher James Hall.

Award-Winning Photographer | Founder of CJHF | Photography Mentor

Christopher James Hall is an award-winning wedding, portrait, and headshot photographer, as well as the founder of CJHF, a foundation dedicated to raising awareness of social challenges through photography.

His journey into photography began in 2015 after overcoming two years of homelessness. Through passion and determination, he built a successful career in wedding, portrait, and headshot photography, capturing meaningful moments and helping individuals present their best selves. His expertise and creative vision have earned him recognition in the industry.

Alongside his professional photography, Christopher runs CJHF, using photography to shed light on social issues and empower marginalised individuals. His exhibitions and projects give a platform to unheard voices, using real stories and imagery to inspire change.

Christopher is also a dedicated photography mentor, offering guidance and training to help photographers refine their skills and build their own careers.

Click the button below to find out more.

Still looking? Here’s more stories

The Nostalgia Trap: Does Photography Make Us Long for a Past That Never Existed?

Photography plays a key role in shaping nostalgia, making the past seem more perfect than it truly was. Selective memory, aesthetic charm, and curated moments in photographs contribute to a romanticised view of history. In the digital age, our relationship with nostalgia is evolving, with social media influencing how we capture and revisit memories. Understanding this nostalgia trap allows us to appreciate photography as an art form while recognising its power to shape emotions and perceptions of the past.

The Myth of the “Perfect Shot”: Is Perfection in Photography an Illusion?

The pursuit of the perfect shot has long been an obsession in photography, but is perfection really the ultimate goal? This article explores how the relentless chase for flawless images can stifle creativity, create unnecessary pressure, and prevent photographers from embracing the magic of raw, unscripted moments. Social media has amplified the demand for polished, curated perfection, often at the cost of authenticity. However, history’s most compelling photographs prove that imperfections—motion blur, unexpected framing, and emotional spontaneity—can elevate an image beyond mere technical correctness. By letting go of perfection, photographers can rediscover their passion, take creative risks, and capture moments that truly resonate.

Breaking the Myths of Photography Mentoring

Photography mentoring is often surrounded by misconceptions, leading many to believe it’s only for beginners or that it requires a large financial investment. In reality, mentorship is a valuable tool for photographers at all career stages, offering insights into creativity, business strategies, and industry trends. Finding a mentor doesn’t have to be expensive—many mentorship opportunities exist through online communities, networking events, and informal connections. By breaking these myths, photographers can embrace mentorship as a powerful way to grow, learn, and refine their craft while building meaningful professional relationships.

The Impact of Mentoring on a Photographer’s Career

Mentorship can be a game-changer for photographers, accelerating growth by providing real-world insights, industry connections, and valuable guidance. While self-learning has its merits, a mentor helps cut through the noise, offering advice on business strategies, creative breakthroughs, and client management. From networking opportunities to pushing creative boundaries, having a mentor can mean the difference between years of trial and error and a fast-tracked path to success. Whether it’s refining technical skills, building confidence, or learning how to navigate challenges, mentorship gives photographers the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.

How to Start a Photography Business With No Money

Launching a photography business with no money is entirely possible by leveraging free resources, social media, and creative marketing strategies. Building a portfolio through free shoots, networking, and using affordable tools can help photographers establish credibility and attract paying clients. Free website platforms, stock photography, and freelance marketplaces offer opportunities to generate income without upfront costs. Success in photography is more about persistence and innovation than financial investment, making it possible for anyone with talent and dedication to thrive in the industry.

Is Social Media Still Worth It for Photographers?

Social media has changed dramatically for photographers, shifting from a platform for stunning portfolios to an unpredictable space driven by algorithms and video content. While Instagram still holds value, its emphasis on reels can make it frustrating for those focused on still photography. TikTok offers great organic reach, but it requires adapting to short-form video trends. Facebook is mostly relevant through groups, while YouTube remains a hidden gem for photographers willing to create educational content. Ultimately, social media is still worth it if photographers can evolve with the trends, but relying solely on these platforms is risky—diversifying with a strong website, email marketing, and real-world networking is key to long-term success.