There's one thing we know to be true in the wedding world, and it's that trends are cyclical. They may come and go with the changing of the seasons, the emergence of a new decade, or the onset of some viral TikTok moment, but one thing is for certain: they have staying power for a reason.
By: Meghan Ely
Photo: Colton Simmons Photography
When it comes to planning your wedding, you may be wondering what's "in," what's "out," and what's coming back around. We rounded up some industry experts to share their favorite throwback trends that they'd like to see make a comeback.
"I believe that documentary wedding photography should make a comeback. We can see a lot of couples creating moments in order to achieve specific-looking photos, turning their wedding day into a styled shoot. Couples plan a lot of time in their timeline for posed photos instead of prioritizing just being in the moment and sharing the day with their most loved ones." —Natalia Zuk, Lilac Studios
"During our first few years in the wedding industry, couples were often gravitating toward vintage elements, which have almost completely disappeared in recent years. We regularly had requests to source vintage materials like handkerchiefs, postcards, brooches, and books that were incorporated into our designs. There was something really special when couples spent some time collecting keepsakes that had deep meaning or sentimental value." —Kelley Nudo, Momental Designs
"There's something really raw and emotional about black-and-white film that digital just can't replicate. It feels timeless and adds a layer of mood that hits differently." —Craig Peterman, Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
"Wedding cake charm pulls! This is from the Victorian era, where charms are tied to ribbons or something similar and put inside the cake. Then guests can pull them out to receive a symbolic charm that could mean a number of different fortunes (love, health, luck, etc)." —Alex McClard, Vision in White Events
"For years, we have seen couples do their cake cutting 'on the side' as to not disrupt the dance floor and guests having fun, but I think couples should make a thing out of the cake cutting — make it fun, bring it to the middle of the dance floor, pass cake around to everyone right there. It doesn't need to feel so formal, and everyone loves a good cake." —Michelle Fernie-Oley, Michelle Elaine Wedding
"The receiving line ensures that the couple and their families personally greet and thank each guest. It's a special moment where guests can share their congratulations directly with the couple, and the couple can express their gratitude. It's also a nice way to make sure no one gets overlooked during the busy festivities. Sometimes, the couple gets caught up on the dance floor or at the bar and never gets a moment to greet all their guests. The receiving line makes sure that doesn't happen, ensuring that every guest has a chance to be acknowledged. A receiving line was once a stable tradition that has faded away. Bringing it back represents a moment of appreciation for the guests who are celebrating with you." —Mary Angelini, Key Moment Films
"Coffee table-style guest books. I know that the DIY Instax guest book will never go away, but I wish it would. Get a photobooth instead, where the photos are well-lit, managed by a pro, and can be printed and saved digitally. If you are already someone who would have a gorgeous coffee table book in your home, then use one as your guest book." —Janice Carnevale, Bellwether Events
"Bringing back older trends works best when it feels like you, not just like a Pinterest throwback. If something old-school makes you smile or reminds you of your family, that's probably a good sign that it belongs in your day." —Craig Peterman, Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
Some trends may be a bit older than others, but the most important element to incorporating these throwbacks into your wedding day is making sure that it resonates with you. It should be something that you want to see in your photo album for years to come, regardless of age!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
