Although September has only just started, 2026 is getting closer and closer. Many are already planning ahead, and that certainly is the case for those who are getting married in 2026. And as a little inspiration never hurt anyone, we made an overview of five wedding trends to look out for in 2026.
Trends are a curious thing. For most people, the exact way in which they work is a mystery, yet no matter how intangible the process might be, only a few are left untouched. Industry insiders, however, tend to have a better view of how those trends emerge and what to expect for the coming season. Belgian wedding search engine and booking platform House of Weddings analysed what the 2026 wedding season will bring and what to expect from next year’s events, whether you’re organising your own or simply attending.
1. Sustainability
As of 2025 (or 2026 in this case), sustainability stands at the core of many people’s lives. In a world rapidly transformed by climate change and pollution, weddings can not stay behind, despite the fact that the event industry has not traditionally been known for its eco-friendly approach.
However, many couples are increasingly making environmentally conscious choices. Locally-sourced seasonal flowers, transplantable plants, organic and local producers, recycled paper for the invitations, and vintage wedding gowns: the list of sustainable choices to include in a wedding is virtually endless.
2. Tailor-made food experiences
Although the food experience at most weddings used to be quite standard and rather formal, thinks are changing. The classic three-course formula is increasingly making way for informal and interactive concepts, including walking dinners, sharing dishes, and show cooking.
Instead of opting for impersonal, standardised dinners, couples are now looking for ways to make the food at their wedding as tailor-made as possible. They’re not hesitant to include personal favourites in the offer and are open to the idea of inviting local food trucks, thereby giving an almost festival-like feel to their wedding, while allowing guests to be more flexible in their choices.
A specially-developed dish or cocktail, only available at the wedding and forever linked to that special day, is also a popular way to add a personal touch.
3. Wedding weekends
Once upon a time, weddings used to take just one day. People arrived for the ceremony in the morning, went home for a little break and then attended the evening dinner and party. However, this has changed quite a bit over the years. And while not everyone has the possibility to organise an entire wedding week abroad, there is a very appealing in-between: the wedding weekend.
The idea is simple, yet very cosy. On Friday evening, a selection of people is invited for a welcome drink or an intimate dinner. On Saturday, there’s the ceremony and party. And on Sunday, a cosy brunch rounds off the weekend and sends everyone on their way. According to House of Wedding’s National Wedding Survey, one in five Belgian couples are opting for a wedding weekend, oftentimes with accommodation on-site.
4. Small and intimate
Gone are the days when many weddings had a 200-guests-or-more policy. In 2026, couples are opting for smaller-scale celebrations, with intimate guest lists and a big impact on those lucky enough to attend.
According to House of Weddings, these so-called micro weddings are often organised in a unique, historic, or natural location. A smaller guest list also means there’s more budget for other things, which means that details such as flowers, styling, and good food become focal points.
5. Colour is key: Honeydew, Cherry Mocha, and Transformative Teal
International colour institute Pantone may not yet have shared its colour of the year for 2026, but all the signs are currently pointing towards three possible laureates: Honeydew, Cherry Mocha, and Transformative Teal.
Honeydew’s soft green hue is the perfect shade for everyone who likes a natural touch. Flowers, invitations, or table linen: there’s little that can’t be done with the right shade of green – especially during Spring weddings. Cherry Mocha, on the other hand, is perfect for those getting married during Autumn or winter. The combination of deep cherry tones with warm mocha brown creates a warm, inviting, luxurious atmosphere. Finally, Transformative Teal has already been chosen as the colour of the year for 2026 by international trend forecaster WGSN. Its fusion of dark blue and water green symbolises renewal and recovery – great to raise ecological awareness.
