By Sarah Adamski and Kristen Ruck
Top 2024 Red Lion Wedding Trends and 2025 Trend Predictions
2024 Wedding Trends Recap:
1) Extravagant Floral Arrangements
Flowers are always a vital component when it comes to wedding décor. From what we saw in 2024, extravagant floral arrangements were used as centerpieces, arches, and even as décor to cascade the stairs. “Florals are a beautiful way to personalize a wedding. We have seen couples transform the Barn using unique floral arrangements that create showstopping displays!” – Sam. We expect to see this trend continue into 2025.
*Photo credit: Sunshine Shannon; Florals: Fleur Events
2) Live Wedding Painters
In 2024, we saw couples incorporate live wedding painters for their special day. Live painters are a great way to add a fun and interactive component for both the couple and their guests. “Having a live painter gives the couple a personalized piece of art that captures the emotion and atmosphere of a wedding in real time, which is a really special touch.” – Krystel.
*Photo credit: Shane Godfrey Photography; Live painter: Beth Bee Art
3) Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses
Mix and match bridesmaid dresses are another trend we have seen over the last couple of years, especially in 2024. According to Vogue, “’matchy-matchy’ is out. The look now? Texture, layers, and the perfectly imperfect.”
*Photo credit: Addie Roberge Photography
4) Drapery, Twinkle Lights and Romantic Lighting
A trend that took off in 2024 that we expect to continue into the 2025 season is using a combination of drapery, twinkle lights and romantic lighting. From ceremony backdrops to tablescapes, elevated drapery and lighting enhances the already warm and inviting atmosphere of the Barn. “Using a combination of drapery and lighting can really transform a space. These elements can be used to enhance the rustic aesthetic of the Barn, which is great for both ceremonies and receptions!” – Sam.
*Photo credit: Kate McElwee Photography; Drapery and lighting: Ryans Designs RI; Florals: Petal and Root; Event planner: Erin Davies Consultancy.
2025 Wedding Trend Predictions:
1) Film Photography
Film photography has made a comeback in recent years, and is a trend we are seeing more and more of at The Red Lion Inn. “Capturing [a wedding] on film creates a timeless and nostalgic feel. Between the texture and the lighting, there is something magical about seeing a couple’s wedding photos on film.” – Krystel.
*Photo credit: Lindsay Belair Photography; Cake: Montillio’s Baking Company
2) Private Vow Readings
“We have seen an increase in private vow readings over the last couple of years, and is a trend we expect to continue into 2025.” – Sam. Private vow readings offer an added layer of intimacy, and allows for a meaningful moment to be shared between the couple, without an audience. In the New York Times article You Are Cordially Invited to Our Wedding, But Not Our Vows, a couple expressed how “turning their vows into a private exchange was one of the couple’s first decisions after their engagement. ’The ceremony is for our guests; the vows are for us.’”
*Photo credit: Anthony Niccoli Photography
3) Layers of Texture
We anticipate seeing a mixture of textures throughout 2025, which is a departure from a more traditional look with clean lines seen in years past. “This approach creates a timeless, textured aesthetic. For example, adding a satin table runner is a great way to create a visually dynamic tablescape!” – Sam. Some additional ideas include linen, corduroy and velvet elements.
*Photo credit: Garrentee Photography; Florist: Consider the Lilies
4) Long Head Tables
Traditional sweetheart tables have always been a popular choice for couples during their reception. However, we are seeing a shift in couples choosing to have longer rectangular head tables. “Having a long head table is a nice way to spotlight the people you love most, while also creating a unique focal point for a wedding reception room layout.” – Krystel.
*Photo credit: Kate McElwee Photography