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The New Wedding Aesthetic: How Millennial Trends Are Evolving for Today’s Couples
I was recently interviewed by Newsweek about the return of millennial wedding trends, and it got me thinking about how wedding aesthetics evolve over time. While some design elements from the 2010s are making a comeback, there’s a fascinating twist in how today’s couples are approaching personalization and authenticity.
The Return of Handmade (But Make It Luxe)
In my interview with Newsweek, I noted that elements of the whimsical “twee” aesthetic are finding their way back into wedding designs, even among couples who describe their style as timeless and elegant. This shift parallels what we’re seeing in fashion and luxury brands, where playful elements like daisies, tiny bows, and unexpected pops of color have returned.
What makes today’s interpretation different is the elevated approach. Rather than purely DIY for budget reasons (though that’s still a factor for many), couples are seeking a curated blend of handmade charm and sophisticated design. The goal is a wedding that feels authentic and personal without sacrificing elegance.
From Cookie-Cutter to Custom
One thing that hasn’t changed is couples’ desire for uniqueness. As I shared with Newsweek: “Today’s couples really crave a non-cookie-cutter wedding. They want to express their personalities and tell their unique love story.”
This desire for individuality connects to broader cultural currents. In an age of AI-generated content and Instagram filters, there’s a growing hunger for authenticity and realness in our celebrations. Gen Z’s “maker culture” and their exposure to fast-moving online trends have created a generation with “incredibly high standards for aesthetics and how things should look. They want it to appear handmade and effortless, but still be charming and unique.”
The Evolution of Wedding Themes
Beyond the twee aesthetic, other nostalgic wedding trends are reemerging with fresh interpretations. In the article, I discussed how the once-ubiquitous “rustic” trend has evolved into two distinct directions:
Rustic Botanical: Features elements like pressed flowers, vintage botanical illustrations, handmade materials, and subdued natural color palettes. One prime example is the resurgence of baby’s breath – once considered old-fashioned and inexpensive – now used in dramatic, cloud-like cascading arrangements.
Western Rustic: Blends classic rustic aesthetics with cowboy-inspired details like horseshoes, ten-gallon hats, and leather accents, working equally well for barn venues and upscale ranch-style weddings.
Finding Your Authentic Style
As wedding trends continue to evolve, the most important thing is creating a celebration that genuinely reflects who you are as a couple. Whether you’re drawn to whimsical details, elegant minimalism, or something completely different, your wedding should tell your unique story.
Take a look at the full article for Lydia Patrick’s take on Millennial Wedding Trends that are making a comeback.
