Unveiling the Top Wedding Trends for 2026

One of the biggest regrets we hear from couples is how quickly their wedding day flew by. That’s why we’re such fans of the “wedding weekend.” In 2026, more couples are stretching their itinerary to include welcome drinks the night before, a morning activity on the day of, and a slow, late brunch before everyone heads home. This approach gives you more time to catch up with the people you love and create long-lasting memories.

Ideally located just 40km outside of Dublin, The Station House Hotel is the perfect all-inclusive venue for your extended celebration. With the rich history of the Boyne Valley as your backdrop, you and your guests can enjoy scenic nature walks, leisurely bike rides, and world-famous heritage sites—all just a stone’s throw from our doorstep. Download our wedding brochure and check out the dates for our wedding showcase events to book a viewing today!

Modern weddings are all about cultivating an experience that makes everyone feel special and appreciated. Expect to see thoughtful details like handwritten notes for each guest, embroidered linen, bespoke party favors, and even custom slippers for the dance floor. This spirit of personalization extends into the entertainment, with live artists crafting individual guest portraits as timeless keepsakes, as well as interactive guestbooks where loved ones can leave heartfelt audio or video messages on vintage-themed devices like an old rotary phone or a 90s camcorder.

When it comes to capturing the day, many of the photographers we’ve spoken with are seeing a shift toward a more documentary-style approach. Instead of spending hours staging poses, this candid style focuses on ‘unscripted storytelling’—capturing those raw, fleeting emotions and real interactions as they happen. It’s a wonderful way to ensure you stay fully present with your guests, knowing your gallery will reflect the energy and heart of the day.

To complement this authentic feel, there is also a lovely resurgence in analog film. Many pros now offer a ‘hybrid’ of digital and film photography to give you the best of both worlds. The soft, grainy texture of film has a certain nostalgia to it that digital can’t quite mimic, resulting in wedding photos that feel vintage and effortlessly romantic.

Who says you have to say “yes” to just one dress? While not a new concept, more brides are embracing a “Second Look”—a comfortable, sleek dress, jumpsuit, or chic separates for the dance floor. This transition shifts the energy from a formal ceremony to party vibes, free from the restrictions of a traditional gown.

Grooms are also joining in, swapping their classic black tuxedos for colorful velvet jackets or textured suits. “After-Party” attire allows couples to showcase their personal style twice in one day, often opting for more daring colors and silhouettes for the reception.

Tradition is taking a beautiful new shape this year. We’re seeing more couples opt for curved and serpentine seating over formal, straight rows of chairs. These winding layouts create a dynamic, editorial feel that looks incredible in photos and physically brings people closer together. To lean into that organic feel, designers are moving away from tall centerpieces and arches in favor of lush, ground-based florals that make the aisle look like a wild meadow.

Our historic turntable outdoor ceremony space (pictured above) is the perfect canvas for this intimate, nature-inspired trend. Set against the backdrop of the forest and glowing fairy lights, it’s a setting that feels both modern and timeless!

We’ve noticed a definitive shift toward the ‘Zero-Waste Wedding,’ where couples are eliminating single-use plastics in favor of elegant, reusable glassware and compostable linens. Environmental consciousness is at its most impactful in the catering; by opting for plant-based food and drink options, you can reduce your event’s carbon footprint, water pollution, and land use by up to 75%.

Complementing this eco-conscious shift is the rising popularity of the ‘Intimate Wedding.’ By curating a more intentional guest list, couples drastically reduce the overall environmental weight of their celebration—from decreasing travel-related emissions to minimizing food waste. Beyond the benefits to the planet, this smaller scale allows for more meaningful one-on-one time with your loved ones.

For more tips on how to host a sustainable wedding, check out our full article here.