The YES

Okay, So Here's What We're Seeing Everywhere Right Now

Can we talk about weddings for a second? Because we've been knee-deep in 2026 celebrations lately, and something's happening that we think you're going to love.

People are finally - finally - throwing out the rulebook.

Like, the weddings that are making everyone cry happy tears and actually have fun? They're the ones where couples said "forget what we're supposed to do" and just built something that felt right.

So if you've been doom-scrolling Pinterest wondering what you're "supposed" to want, take a breath. Let us tell you what's actually working right now.

The guest list thing everyone's doing (and not feeling guilty about)

Smaller weddings are having a moment. And we don't mean "we had to cut it down" energy - we mean couples are choosing 30-50 people and feeling amazing about it.

Here's why it's working: you actually get to be present. You're not doing a receiving line speed-run or taking 47 family photos with people you haven't seen since you were seven.

You're having real conversations. Lingering over dinner. Noticing the little moments.

And honestly? Your budget goes further when you're not feeding 200 people. Just saying.

The color situation is getting interesting

Remember when every wedding was blush and sage? Still pretty, but 2026 is going darker in the best way.

Deep burgundy. Forest green. Midnight blue with gold accents.

It feels moody and romantic without being goth (unless you want goth, then yes to that too). These colors photograph like a dream and make everything feel more intimate and intentional.

If you're worried it'll feel too heavy, mix in cream or champagne tones. Candlelight does wonders here.

Sustainability isn't just a buzzword anymore

This one's actually cool because it's not about being perfect - it's about being thoughtful.

Couples are renting decor instead of buying things that'll sit in a garage forever. They're using local flowers that are in season. Vintage dresses are having a whole resurgence.

And digital invites? They've officially lost the "cheap" stigma. Some of them are gorgeous.

The best part: these choices usually save money and feel more personal. Win-win.

Food is becoming the main event

Plated chicken and salmon? We've moved on.

The weddings people remember are doing food stations where guests build their own tacos, or a family-style feast that actually gets people talking, or late-night pizza that shows up at 10 PM when everyone's dancing.

One couple at The Abbey did a signature cocktail bar with drinks named after their pets. Another had a donut wall instead of cake at the Vineyard.

Your food can be an experience, not just a meal. People will talk about your menu for months if you let yourself have fun with it.

Want to see how couples are bringing their vision to life at our venues? Book a tour and we'll show you what's possible.

Fashion rules are officially dead

Here's the truth: 2026 brides are wearing whatever makes them feel incredible.

Jumpsuits. Two-piece sets. Colored gowns. Dramatic sleeves. Cape veils. Sneakers under the dress.

And bridesmaids? They're not matching anymore - they're wearing different styles in the same color family so everyone feels confident.

Grooms are stepping out of the boring black tux and trying jewel tones or patterns or fun accessories that actually show their personality.

The question isn't "what should I wear" - it's "what makes me feel like myself on the best day ever?"

Tech that actually helps (not just exists)

Look, we know "wedding tech" sounds sterile. But hear us out.

Live-streaming for grandma who can't travel anymore? That's love.

A custom playlist QR code on each table so guests can add songs to the dance floor rotation? That's genius.

A wedding website that actually keeps everyone informed so you're not answering the same question 47 times? That's self-care.

Technology works when it makes your day easier or more inclusive. Use it for that, ignore the rest.

Entertainment that's actually entertaining

DJs are great. Photo booths are fun. But couples are getting creative with how they keep the party going.

We've seen tarot readers at cocktail hour. Wine tastings during dinner. A live painter capturing the ceremony in real-time. A s'mores station that turned into the most popular part of the night.

The goal is to give people something to do besides sit at tables making small talk with third cousins.

What would make your people happy? Start there.

Here's what we actually want you to take from this…

You're not behind. You're not doing it wrong. And you don't have to follow trends just because they exist.

Take what makes your heart race and leave the rest. Want 150 people and a traditional sit-down dinner? Perfect. Want 20 people and food trucks? Also perfect.

The weddings that work are the ones where you can feel the couple in every single choice.

So if you're feeling pressure to do things a certain way, this is us giving you permission to ignore it. Build the day that makes you excited to wake up and get married.

That's the only trend that matters.

Ready to see where your day could happen? Check out our venues and let's start building something that's completely yours.

Talk soon ✨ Your "Yes" Team ♥️