Weekend-Long Celebrations

More couples are choosing to turn their weddings into full-fledged weekend events rather than single-day affairs. This format usually includes a welcome party, a group activity (be it a private yoga session or soundbath, a bonfire, or a pool party), and a brunch or casual send-off the next day. Not only does this allow the couple and their guests to have more quality time together—especially when people are traveling from out of town—but it also helps take pressure off the wedding day itself.

Personalized Details

Personal touches are still big, but they’re showing up in more thoughtful ways than before. Couples are finding small, meaningful ways to weave their love story into all aspects of their big day. This could include everything from a handwritten note at each place setting, a favor tied to their background or hobbies, or welcome bags stocked with things guests will actually want for the weekend (think: custom water bottles, the couple's favorite snacks, or a map of their favorite neighborhood spots all feel personal without being over the top). It’s less about creating a branded wedding and more about giving guests a glimpse into who they are as a couple.

Statement Florals & Installations

Floral design continues to skew more sculptural (think: suspended arrangements, asymmetrical arches, and/or large entry arrangements that set the tone right away). Aisle flowers are getting the same treatment, with taller, meadow-style designs replacing the tight, uniform rows that once lined every seat. Best of all, because these statement arrangements do the heavy lifting visually, they’re also a smart option for couples watching their budget by focusing on one or two standout pieces, which often have more impact than trying to cover the entire space.

Food (and Drinks) With Personality

Food remains top of mind for couples, many of whom aren’t afraid to think beyond the traditional plated dinner. Instead of a single format, more pairs are mixing things up: a few passed bites to start, a couple of stations, and a shorter entrée list. Similarly, interactive food and drink stations are also gaining traction, partly because they double as entertainment. Cider bars, donut lounges, build-your-own dessert tables, and a raw bar with a live oyster shucker give guests something to do and create a little movement in the room.

Drinks are getting their own spotlight this year, especially Champagne. Walls lined with flutes, classic Champagne walls, and towers are popping up again, showing up as both a serve-yourself moment and an easy photo backdrop. Couples are also leaning into build-your-own bars—everything from mimosa stations and Bloody Mary setups to juice and smoothie situations—that let guests customize their drinks without slowing the party flow.

Increased Use of Tech

Couples are using tech in small, practical ways to keep planning and day-of logistics as smooth as possible. QR-code RSVPs and digital seating charts make the lead-up easier, while touchscreen or audio guestbooks and simple photo or video loops show up as guest-facing touches that feel fun and easy to use.

Nostalgia-Inducing Guest Experiences

In 2026, nostalgia-inducing touches will continue showing up at weddings in small, understated ways. Couples are bringing in claw machines with tiny prizes, sticker or tattoo vending machines, or retro games like Pac-Man or Skee-Ball that guests can wander over to throughout the night.

Outdoor cocktail hours are getting their own throwback moments too, with simple lawn games like cornhole or ring toss: easy, low-pressure additions that add personality without turning the reception into an activity zone.

Explore more wedding destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio, a collection of distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program.