RACHEL LINDER
ATLANTA & SAVANNAH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

I’ve been photographing weddings across the Southeast for years, and I’ve noticed some interesting shifts in how couples are approaching their big day in 2025. These 2025 wedding trends aren’t about reinventing the wheel, though! They’re practical, creative ways couples are making their weddings feel more personal. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or a smaller gathering, there are meaningful ways to make the day reflect who you are.

After documenting hundreds of weddings, I wanted to share the 2025 wedding trends that are catching my attention. 

Multi-Day Celebrations

Weddings in 2025 are stretching beyond the traditional single-day event. More couples are creating full wedding weekends that give their guests an extended experience. I’ve seen everything from welcome dinners and day-after brunches to group activities like local winery tours or hiking trips. It’s not about making things complicated–it’s about giving your closest people a chance to really connect and create memories together.

As a photographer, I absolutely love multi-day celebrations! Instead of just capturing a few hours, I love getting to document the entire celebration weekend. From relaxed welcome dinners to spontaneous moments between formal events, you’ll want to remember it all. It’s safe to say this is one of the 2025 wedding trends I can definitely get behind!

Bold Colors and Statement Decor

Neutral palettes are taking a backseat in 2025. Couples are embracing bold, unexpected color combinations that tell a story. I’m seeing jewel tones, creative color blocking, and playful mixes of patterns and prints. Think vibrant combinations like deep emerald green with pops of hot pink, or rich purple paired with unexpected accent colors.

The Southeast provides such a great backdrop for these bold design choices. I’ve photographed weddings where couples use oversized floral installations or dramatic backdrops that completely transform a space. I see these as more than just decor and actually a way to show personality.

One trend I’m particularly excited about is custom dance floor designs. I’m seeing that more and more couples plan to use vinyl wraps to turn their dance floor into a personal statement piece. Imagine a floor with a meaningful pattern, a custom monogram, or a design that reflects the couple’s journey. I love that this makes the wedding itself and the photos uniquely yours.

Intimate Guest Lists, Big Experiences

On average, wedding guest lists are getting smaller, but the experiences are getting more meaningful. Couples are shifting away from the “bigger is better” approach and focusing on creating something truly special for their closest people. I’m seeing weddings with 50 guests that feel more memorable and personal than traditional 200-person celebrations.

These smaller weddings open up incredible opportunities. Couples can invest in personalized dining experiences, custom entertainment, or unique details that really celebrate their relationships. Couples are getting creative with personal touches, like escort displays made of oyster shells or custom seating assignments drawn on fans. These touches ensure that each guest feels truly special. 

I love photographing these intimate weddings. With fewer guests, I can capture those genuine interactions. I love documenting things like a quiet conversation between old friends, a spontaneous laugh during dinner, or a meaningful glance that tells a whole story. 

Custom, Curated Attire

Wedding attire in 2025 is all about personal style. Couples are making bold choices that truly represent who they are. Brides are stepping away from traditional white gowns, exploring options like sleek jumpsuits, dresses with unexpected embroidery, or even subtle color accents. Grooms are breaking free from standard tuxedo templates, experimenting with different cuts, colors, and personal touches.

I’ve seen some incredible looks that tell a real story. Maybe it’s a groom with custom cufflinks that honor a family memory, or a bride in a dress that incorporates a piece of fabric from a loved one. 

For photographers like me, these unique looks are a dream. Every detail becomes part of the memories. I notice things like the way a custom suit fits, the meaningful embroidery on a dress, and the accessories that make an outfit distinctly yours. To me, it’s about capturing the personality behind the clothing, not just the clothing itself.

Over-the-Top Cake Designs

In 2025, wedding cakes are truly taking center stage. Think intricate sugar details, hand-painted designs, and cakes so stunning they could belong in an art gallery. These aren’t just desserts. They’re edible masterpieces that make a bold statement!

As a photographer, I know these cakes deserve more than a quick shot. They play a key role in your wedding’s visual story, and capturing them means highlighting every detail with care.

Unexpected Entertainment

Forget the standard wedding DJ and predictable reception lineup. Couples in 2025 are thinking creatively about how to entertain their guests. I’m seeing everything from aerial performances that leave guests speechless to live painters capturing the evening in real-time. Pop-up bars with custom cocktails, interactive art installations, and unexpected entertainment are becoming the norm.

These are experiences that make your wedding memorable! Plus, for photographers, these moments are gold. They’re spontaneous, genuine, and full of real emotion. 

Destination Weddings With a Twist

Destination weddings are moving far beyond the typical tropical resort. Couples are getting creative, choosing locations that truly mean something to them. I’m seeing weddings in charming towns like Charleston and hidden beach spots like Kiawah Island that feel like a complete escape.

The Southeast offers some incredible wedding destinations that many couples don’t even know about. From mountain towns with breathtaking views to secluded lakeside retreats, there are so many options beyond the standard venues. 

As a photographer who knows this region inside and out, I love traveling to weddings in these incredible spots. The right location is a key part of your wedding experience! 

Dedicated Social Media Content Creators

These days, social media content creators are becoming a popular addition to weddings, and it’s easy to see why! They focus on capturing your big day as it unfolds, from Instagram Stories to TikTok Reels, making sure your feed is filled with fun moments for everyone to enjoy in real-time.

As a photographer, my focus is on creating timeless images that will tell your story for years to come. Content creators, on the other hand, dive into the immediate, shareable moments like behind-the-scenes clips.

You get the best of both worlds: photos that stand the test of time and social media content that keeps everyone in the loop, whether they’re celebrating with you in person or from afar! 

Your 2025 Wedding Photographer

2025 wedding trends aside, it’s important to remember that weddings are always evolving. Capturing those meaningful moments is what I love most. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, I’m here to document the memories that matter most to you. If you’re ready to chat about your 2025 wedding, I’d love to hear your vision and help bring it to life. Let’s connect!