Wedding Trends 2026: What’s Coming Next for UK Weddings
If you’re planning a 2026 wedding, you’re in the right place. Trends are shifting in some exciting ways — more personal, more stylish, more intentional, and honestly, much more fun. As a wedding photographer based in Cheltenham and shooting all across the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire and the wider UK, I’m already seeing what’s starting to bubble up for next year.
Here’s a look at the biggest wedding trends for 2026 — the ones couples are already leaning into, the ones suppliers are talking about, and the ones that are going to make weddings feel even more “you.”
- Smaller Guest Lists, Bigger Experiences
- Cinematic, Moody & Stylish Photography
- Statement Fashion Moments
- Clean, Soft & Neutral Colour Palettes
- Florals Are Getting Bigger (But More Natural)
- Outdoor Ceremonies Are on the Rise
- Statement Decor, Not Overwhelming Decor
- Smart Use of Technology
- Relaxed Timelines & Longer Celebrations
- Elevated Food & Drink Experiences
- Candid Guest Photos Take Centre Stage
- The Return of the “At-Home” Aesthetic
- Personal Touches (Without the Cheese)
- The Cotswolds Boom
- Planning a 2026 Wedding in the Cotswolds?
Smaller Guest Lists, Bigger Experiences
2026 couples are prioritising atmosphere over volume. Think fewer guests, but more thought going into the day. This means elevated food and drink, slower timelines, and more focus on connection. The Cotswolds is perfect for this — places like Manor By The Lake, The Hare & Hounds and barn venues across Gloucestershire are made for relaxed but luxurious celebrations.
Cinematic, Moody & Stylish Photography
Couples want photography that feels natural, emotional, and stylish — with a touch of editorial energy. Gone are the stiff, overly bright photographs. 2026 couples want photos that feel like them but elevated. Which fits my whole approach perfectly: Wedding Photography That Feels Like You.
Statement Fashion Moments
Wedding fashion in 2026 is going bold: pearl veils, oversized bows, cuffed sleeves, detachable skirts, tuxedos with modern tailoring, and more soft colour tones. Cotswolds venues — with their iconic stone and soft light — make these fashion choices look incredible in photos.
Clean, Soft & Neutral Colour Palettes
Expect warm whites, creams, sage greens, dusty pinks and muted peaches. Think modern countryside chic — and these tones suit Cotswolds stone better than anything.
Florals Are Getting Bigger (But More Natural)
Floral design is moving toward large, meadow-style arrangements, asymmetric pillars, sustainable foam-free setups and big airy movement. Cotswolds florists absolutely shine at this style.
Outdoor Ceremonies Are on the Rise
Despite UK weather, outdoor ceremonies are becoming more popular because they feel relaxed, natural and look stunning in photos. Venues like Manor By The Lake, Hyde House, Cripps Barn and The Pear Tree have incredible outdoor ceremony spaces.
Statement Decor, Not Overwhelming Decor
Instead of styling everything, 2026 couples are choosing one powerful design moment — like a dramatic ceremony backdrop, huge floral centrepiece or styled bar area. One big statement = big impact + great photos.
Smart Use of Technology
It’s not about adding tech everywhere — it’s about using it cleverly. Expect 4K films, audio guestbooks, content creators, QR photo sharing and live-streaming. The Cotswolds suppliers scene is already ahead with modern tech options.
Relaxed Timelines & Longer Celebrations
Couples want slower, calmer wedding days — longer drinks receptions, extended portraits, meaningful speeches and sometimes two-day celebrations. And honestly, the Cotswolds is made for this pace of wedding.
Elevated Food & Drink Experiences
Think feasting boards, fire-cooked menus, local produce, signature cocktails and late-night street food. Trendy, delicious and very British in the best way.
Candid Guest Photos Take Centre Stage
2026 is the year of real moments — laughs, hugs, reactions, dance floor madness, the lot. Couples care more about feelings than perfection. Which is my favourite type of wedding to shoot.
The Return of the “At-Home” Aesthetic
Not literally marrying at home — but creating a warm, intimate, cosy feeling: soft lighting, simple decor, familiar touches.
It’s comforting, elegant and incredibly photogenic.
Personal Touches (Without the Cheese)
Think signature cocktails, personalised menus, custom illustrations, subtle nods to hobbies, and — a big trend incoming — live wedding painters.
Personality without the Pinterest clichés.
The Cotswolds Boom
More couples than ever are choosing the Cotswolds — Cheltenham, Cirencester, Stow, Bourton, Tetbury — for its mix of scenic countryside and elegant venues.
It’s become a destination wedding hotspot for the UK.
Planning a 2026 Wedding in the Cotswolds?
I’m Pedge — a Cheltenham-based wedding photographer shooting weddings across Gloucestershire, the Cotswolds and the UK. If you want wedding photos that feel natural, stylish and full of personality, I’d love to chat.
