5 2025 Wedding Trend’s We’re taking into 2026

As 2025 comes to a close, one thing is clear—this year has been all about personality, nature, and heartfelt moments. From bold florals to intimate vows, couples have been creating celebrations that feel authentic, emotional, and visually stunning.

As a Sacramento, Bay Area, and Lake Tahoe wedding photographer, I’ve seen some incredible trends this year that I know we’ll be carrying into 2026. If you’re planning your wedding for the year ahead, here’s the inspiration worth keeping.

1. Bright, Springy Florals All Year Round

Gone are the days when bright florals were only for spring weddings. In 2025, couples brought bold color palettes into every season—think pink peonies in November, coral roses in January, and pastel ranunculus paired with fall foliage.

Florists are mixing seasonal blooms with imported favorites so you can have a “spring garden” feel any time of year. These vibrant arrangements bring joy and energy to wedding photos, no matter the month.

2. Nature-Centered Weddings

Whether it’s a mountaintop ceremony in Lake Tahoe, a vineyard celebration in Napa, or a coastal elopement in Half Moon Bay, couples are leaning into nature as their backdrop.

Outdoor ceremonies allow for breathtaking views, organic lighting, and décor that blends seamlessly with the environment. Even indoor venues are bringing nature in through greenery installations, wooden textures, and natural color palettes.

3. Dramatic, Long Trains on Wedding Dresses

Statement trains are back in a big way. Brides are choosing gowns with flowing, regal trains that photograph beautifully—especially in wide, scenic shots.

The best part? These trains add drama without taking away from mobility. Many designers are now creating detachable trains or overskirts so brides can have the best of both worlds: elegance for the ceremony and comfort for the dance floor.

4. Embracing a Little Dirt

This year, I’ve seen more couples embrace the idea that a little dirt on your dress is a sign of a day well-lived. Whether it’s hiking for a mountaintop first look or wandering through a meadow for sunset portraits, brides aren’t letting a pristine hemline hold them back from incredible photos.

The result? Wedding galleries that feel adventurous, romantic, and unapologetically real.

5. Private Vow Exchanges (With Photo & Video Present)

One of my favorite trends is couples taking time before the ceremony to exchange personal vows privately.

These moments often happen during a first look or in a quiet corner of the venue, with only the photographer and videographer present. It allows couples to be fully present with each other, share emotions without an audience, and still have those memories beautifully documented.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we step into the new year, I expect we’ll see these trends evolve and blend: brighter florals mixed with earth tones, even more nature-driven weddings, and a continued focus on authenticity over tradition.

If you’re planning your 2026 wedding and want photography that captures both the trends and the timeless moments, I’d love to talk about your vision. From Sacramento vineyards to Tahoe mountaintops, your story deserves to be told in full color.

📸 Contact me to start planning your wedding photography.