2026 is here, and a new year means new trends – including the latest wedding trends. With each passing year weddings are becoming much more unique and tailored to the interests of the bride and groom, so there have been some truly incredible ceremonies and receptions! This year you can expect to see some bold ideas for colors, themes, venues, and cuisine.
Here are some major wedding trends that you can expect to find this next year:
Wedding colors
Pantone has announced its 2026 Color of the Year: PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a soft, billowy white chosen for its calming presence and symbolism of new beginnings. Marking the first time a shade of white has been selected, Cloud Dancer reflects a collective desire for balance, simplicity, and quiet moments in an increasingly busy world.
In 2026 weddings, this airy white is setting the tone for clean, thoughtful design. Couples are embracing lighter palettes that feel intentional and refined, using Cloud Dancer as a fresh foundation across linens, florals, stationery, and ceremony spaces. Rather than feeling stark, this shade creates warmth and softness, allowing other elements to shine.
With Cloud Dancer as the backdrop, couples are layering in subtle contrast through texture and detail. Expect to see sculptural florals, organic fabrics, and intentional pops of color used sparingly for impact. This approach creates weddings that feel elevated, calming, and deeply personal.
Metallic accents remain popular in 2026, but the focus continues to shift toward cooler finishes like chrome and silver, along with muted copper tones. These metals pair effortlessly with soft whites, adding depth without overpowering the design. Meanwhile, warmer metallics like rose gold are stepping aside in favor of cleaner, more modern accents.
Overall, Cloud Dancer invites couples to slow down, be present, and design weddings that feel timeless rather than trendy. In 2026, wedding style is less about excess and more about meaningful, beautifully balanced moments.
Trendy foods
Weddings today are a lot less traditional than they used to be, and it’s no exception when it comes to cuisine! The usual sit-down dinner is being replaced with lighter, more fun options. Future spouses are choosing their favorite dishes to celebrate the big day as opposed to a typical banquet. Think sliders, tacos, and breakfast for dinner! Food trucks will also remain a popular wedding food choice in 2026.
Cake alternatives
Brides and grooms aren’t just changing up dinner! 2026’s wedding cake trends aren’t even cakes at all: expect everything from popsicles to ice cream cones to doughnuts – even cookies and milk. Couples who just can’t choose one dessert are designing entire dessert bars, complete with dozens of mini treats for all of their guests.
Atmosphere
Couples have been shifting from typical venues to locations with a bit more edge for a while now, and 2026 will be no exception. Next year’s wedding venue trends will include spaces with more of an industrial feel – think exposed brick or open duct ceilings and lots of natural light. Rustic themes will continue to reign supreme, but with a more formal or woodsy twist – fewer mason jars and more sleek or forest-inspired decor.
If your wedding date is scheduled for 2026, be sure to keep an eye out for these trends. And if you’re on the hunt for a wedding venue, consider FIVE Event Center. Located in the heart of Uptown, you and your guests will get to experience stunning historic architecture with a modern twist. Interested? Contact FIVE Event Center today and let us help you create your incredible and unforgettable wedding experience.