In 2023, we are breaking tradition. I can feel it in my bones that couples all over the world are going to stray from the regular old wedding timeline to creating a day that is built around long-lasting memories.

For a lot of photographers, wedding season starts in the Spring. With my first big wedding of the year coming up at the end of March, it’s given me a little bit of time to think about the trends that I’ll see in 2023.

This year, I predict that we’ll see more couples prioritize their own wants and needs on their big day. Here’s five things I expect to see more of:

Midday and Weekday Weddings

With more and more couples booking venues well in advance, we’ll start to see couples opt for non-traditional times. As venues are fully booked, they are starting to open up new time slots for couples who want something a little shorter.

I think we’ll start to see more weekday or morning weddings in 2023. Not only does this allow couples to keep costs down, but it also gives them more time in the day to do other activities. A morning ceremony followed by a brunch reception means you can have the evening to yourself, whether that’s for an afterparty or a quiet dinner.

The Rise of Colorful Weddings

Neutral themes have been popular for a while, but colorful weddings are making a comeback. From bright florals to vibrant place settings, more couples are embracing color in their wedding palettes. And I don’t just mean ten different shades of pinks, I mean couples are embracing contrasting colors, all the warm colors, all the cool colors, 80-style pink and so much more. This year I think think color will show up not in just the florals and place settings, but think bold bridesmaids outfits, grooms rocking pink or green.

Don’t be afraid to go bold! If you’re not sure about going all-out, start slow with pastels and pops of color.

Themes over Uniformity

Matching bridesmaid dresses are a thing of the past and have slowly been a thing of the past. We started off with bridesmaids mixing and matching similar colors, having the same color in different fabrics.This year, I expect to see more brides giving their wedding party more freedom to choose their attire. Instead of a specific color or fabric, brides may simply ask for a certain style or palette. For example, jewel tones, or florals. And it’s not just the wedding party – couples may also start giving guests more direction on what to wear. Think “red-carpet glam” or “garden-party” instead of “semi-formal.”

Scheduling More Private Moments

Couples are starting to plan more private moments together on their wedding day. From getting ready together to having a long private first look, couples are finding ways to spend more time with each other amidst the chaos of the day. Some ways people are finding more time together throughout the wedding are:

• Dinner together, in a separate room away from guests
• Exchanging vows before the wedding alone
• Getting ready together
• Late night portraits – just you two, a drink and your photographer
• Private final dance to cap off the night

The Return of the Cake

For some reason, over the last five years – we’ve ditched cake cutting. In fact, many have ditched the cake all together and gone with cupcakes, champagne towers or dessert bars. Let me tell you, nothing screams a celebration like a cake to me. I’m excited to see couples starting to opt back in for having cakes at their ceremony. Because it’s your party, have your cake and eat it too.

There you have it – my predictions for the top wedding trends of 2023. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to get married, as long as you’re having fun! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer to capture your big day, let’s connect.