The Knot Summer 2026

THE LOOK THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME

Pearls of Wisdom

THEN

ON THE COVER

Photography by Sophie Elgort; styling by Kesha McLeod; hair by Angela Meadows; makeup by Natasha Gross; production: Gillian Avertick/Inner Circle NYLA. Shot on location at Palm House, Palm Beach, FL. On Venus: dress by Natali & Meital; shoes by Manolo Blahnik; jewelry by Messika.

14 DOWN MEMORY AISLE

We look back at how we celebrated love over the last 30 years.

22 THE MARRIAGE MARKET

We take “stock” of the evolution of wedding costs and other money matters.

26 THREE DECADES OF DIAMONDS

Jewel experts break down the most popular ring trends.

32

ICON STATUS

Since 1996, these high-profile weddings have left a mark on the industry.

40 AISLE STYLE

Find your altar ego with our bridal archetypes, past and present— from the ballerina to the chapel-chic cutie.

48 DESIGNERS THROUGH THE DECADES

Read our Q&As with some of the most influential voices in wedding fashion.

58 DANCE WITH US Rewind and listen to 30 years of wedding music.

Pearls of Wisdom

NOW & BEYOND

84

YOU RANG?

Meet the concierge vendors enhancing weddings of the future.

88

HEAD-TO-TOE LUSTER

Add an iridescent touch to your wedding with these 30 pearl products.

94

VENUS RISING

Tennis star Venus Williams and her husband, Andrea Preti, open up in their first joint print interview.

SEASONS OF LOVE

Real Wedding: A colorful full-day fete in Vietnam.

114

ANCHORS AWEIGH

Real Wedding:

A thoughtful, all-in-the-details Cape Cod weekend.

106 A NEW YORK LIFETIME

110 DAY

62 FROM THIS DAY FORWARD

118 THE 30 MOST ROMANTIC DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD

Real Wedding:

Real

With seasoned industry pros, we consider how weddings may evolve in the next 30 years.

With seasoned pros, we consider how may evolve in 30 years

68

EVERLASTING ADVICE

We turned timeless engagement guidance into 30 tried-and-true tidbits. Trust.

A garden-party soiree in Central Park.

72 THE REGISTRY LEGACY

We compiled wedding gifts that couples won’t regret putting on their wish list.

82

gifts that couples won’t on their BALL

GAZE INTO OUR CRYSTAL BALL

We asked a planner, a psychic and our own team to predict events 30, 50 or even 100 years from now.

We asked a a and our own team to events 50 or even 100 years

Consider these swoonworthy places for your destination wedding or honeymoon.

IN THIS ISSUE

A soiree in Park swoonfor your destination or honeymoon THE

8 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR & CEO

128 30/30 VISION

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Esther Lee

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nathalie Kirsheh

SENIOR MANAGER, EDITORIAL OPERATIONS

Meesha Diaz Haddad

EDITORIAL

EDITOR Cathryn Haight

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Chapelle Johnson

EDITOR Sarah Hanlon

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emily Rumsey

EDITORIAL VISUALS, PRODUCTION & VIDEO

SENIOR DESIGNER Tiana Crispino DESIGNER Ashley Detmering PHOTO EDITOR Lauren Kill

CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITOR Myles McDonnell

CONTRIBUTING RESEARCH EDITOR Keith Bearden

DIRECTOR, EDITORIAL VIDEO & AUDIO Lauren Lumsden

SOCIAL MEDIA & TALENT

DIRECTOR, SOCIAL MEDIA & INFLUENCERS Caitlin Williamson

INFLUENCER MARKETING LEAD Kimberly Brown

MANAGER, SOCIAL & COMMUNITY Carolyn Hart

MANAGER, SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY Charlotte Errity

YOUTUBE LEAD Danielle Savoy

SOCIAL & INFLUENCER ANALYTICS LEAD Nate Janes

ASSOCIATE SOCIAL CONTENT CREATORS Lauren Miolene Carina Bowen

OPERATIONS

DIRECTOR, MARKETING & EDITORIAL OPERATIONS Samantha Langabeer CONTENT PRODUCTION ASSOCIATES Christian Pruitt Doireann Mangan

BRAND CREATIVE

SENIOR DIRECTOR, GLOBAL CREATIVE Meg Vázquez-Pastrana

SENIOR DESIGNER Paola Mitchell

SENIOR COPYWRITER, CONSUMER CREATIVE Haley Brennan

VIDEO EDITOR Malu Frasson Nori

GLOBAL MARKETING

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER & PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL MEDIA SOLUTIONS Jenny Lewis, jlewis@theknotww.com VICE PRESIDENT, US CONSUMER MARKETING Kiara Kempski, kkempski@theknotww.com VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS AND IMPACT Nicole Smith, nsmith@theknotww.com

SENIOR DIRECTOR, GLOBAL CONTENT & CREATIVE Annie Lennon Carroll, acarroll@theknotww.com DIRECTOR, GLOBAL RESEARCH & INSIGHTS Kirsten Francis, kfrancis@theknotww.com

GLOBAL MEDIA SOLUTIONS @ THE KNOT WORLDWIDE

SENIOR DIRECTOR, ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT Nicole Vogel, nvogel@theknotww.com

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, REVENUE OPERATIONS Jenna Bruno, jbruno@theknotww.com

CAMPAIGN ANALYST Anahí Garza-Runfola, arunfola@theknotww.com

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS, EAST Cara Goldberg, cgoldberg@theknotww.com Debbie Konstadt, dkonstadt@theknotww.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES, EAST Lindsey Aloia, laloia@theknotww.com Giavanna Cifelli, gcifelli@theknotww.com Melissa Masullo, mmasullo@theknotww.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, WEST Debbie Lucas, dlucas@theknotww.com

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR, MIDWEST Laura Adrian, ladrian@theknotww.com

SENIOR MANAGER, SALES DEVELOPMENT MARKETING Zoë Ferranti

SENIOR MANAGER, BRANDED CONTENT Kate Traverson

ASSOCIATE SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Gabriela Maceira

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR Amanda Gallagher

ASSOCIATE DESIGNER Meg Scott MANAGER, ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT Kaitlin Fitzgerald, kfitzgerald@theknotww.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Samantha Baizan, sbaizan@theknotww.com Alaina Gosh, agosh@theknotww.com Emmy Harman, eharman@theknotww.com Jordan Speranza, jsperanza@theknotww.com

PUBLISHED BY XO GROUP INC. 2 Wisconsin Circle, 3rd Floor, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. TheKnot.com

The Knot weddings magazine © 2026 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. The Knot, TheKnot.com and The Knot weddings magazine are trademarks of XO Group Inc. The Knot is not responsible for the return or loss of, or damage to, unsolicited materials. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials for consideration should not send originals, unless specifically requested to do so in writing by The Knot. Manuscripts, artwork and other materials must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

PLEASE NOTE The Knot and the materials and information it contains are not intended to and do not constitute specific legal, medical or financial advice, and should not be used as such. You should always consult with your professional advisors about your circumstances. This information contained herein is not necessarily exhaustive or complete or up to date, after the time of printing. In regards to travel, local laws may restrict service availability to all. Visit the Equality Index (equaldex.com/ equality-index) for more information.

Left: The Palm Beach views from the “styling suite.” For full fashion credits, see “Venus Rising,” page 94.

Visit TheKnot.com/Venus and follow @TheKnot for more on our cover star and the features in this issue.

DREAM TEAM

“Our shoot with Venus was pure magic: an amazing team and images that captured the energy of the day.”

—Nathalie

“PHOTOGRAPHING VENUS WAS A DREAM. SHE’S A TRUE LEGEND, AND JUST AS LOVELY AND GRACIOUS AS SHE IS ICONIC.” —SOPHIE ELGORT

THE BUSINESS OF WEDDINGS, THE BEAUTY OF CELEBRATIONS

LETTER FROM THE CEO & EDITOR

30 Years of Weddings

In 1996, The Knot launched as a chatboard during the age of dial-up Internet and the early days of DVD players (remember those?). Over the course of the 30 years since, this company has grown up and scaled, uncovering new possibilities for how people create, plan and connect across their celebrations.

With that have come many “firsts” in the history of wedding innovations. In the late 1990s, The Knot was the first to build an online registry (“Down Memory Aisle,” page 14); in the 2010s, we were the first to build an everything-wedding-planning app; in the mid-’20s, we became the first to implement AI planning tools (“From This Day Forward,” page 62). It’s why couples—25 million and counting—have trusted us with planning distinctly personalized events. We’ve long been alleviating stress to make the engagement a joyful and purposeful life period.

Fast-forward to 2026. This year, The Knot is celebrating 30 years. This milestone (our pearl anniversary, to be exact; see page 88) coincides with the rapid surge and adoption of AI across our everyday lives. And that’s where we press play: We’re innovating ourselves, and helping couples plan seamlessly, as weddings that are authentically theirs and the guest experience take center stage.

Today, couples are planning in new ways. For the last three decades, we’ve adapted alongside them—from magazines to search to social. Now, AI is reshaping the landscape again. And while the information overload can be overwhelming, that’s where we continue to shine. The Knot editors are here to help you navigate every aspect of planning (“Everlasting Advice,” page 68), including revamped takes on nostalgic fashion trends (“Aisle Style: Then & Now,” page 40) and the wedding-gift list you won’t regret (“The Registry Legacy,” page 72).

Despite all that we confront in our world, this truth remains: The business of celebrations is resilient. In fact, $100 billion was spent on weddings last year in the US, which corroborates what we’ve seen through our data: Couples crave community and connection. We’ll be right here to guide you—and your loved ones—through it … just as then, now and beyond. It’s like our cover star (Venus Williams, page 94) says: “Greatness is a choice.”

With celebration & innovation,

RAINA AND ESTHER CEO, THE KNOT EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, THE KNOT

The Knot: First to the

1996

First-ever brand on AOL 1997

First to create an online wedding registry 2011

First to launch an everything-weddingplanning app 2025

First to implement AI planning tools (including ChatGPT integration)

Bring the destination vibe to your wedding, no passport required. Save on the dress. Splurge on a vacation.

Years of FROM THEN TO NOW,

The Knot

PLUS WHAT’S NEXT

In case you’re new here: The symbol for the 30th wedding anniversary is the pearl. This year—aka our pearl anniversary—we illuminate the couples and wedding pros who’ve grown with us since 1996. The world is our oyster.

DownMemory

A LOOK BACK AT HOW WE CELEBRATED LOVE OVER THE LAST 30 YEARS.

Aisle

By Cathryn Haight

Imagine if we had one big photo album covering every wedding of the past three decades: We’d see puff-sleeve gowns give way to sleek slips, then blinged-out mermaid cuts, then the nowubiquitous Basque-waist dresses. We’d watch flowers go from cascading to structured to hyperseasonal, and photography transition from film to digital and back again. We’d witness the rise and fall of the Mason jar, and the triumphant return of the disco ball. And whatever your thoughts on if your cousin’s early-2000s wedding would hold up today, you probably learned a thing or two from it about how you do (or don’t) want to celebrate your own nuptials.

That’s the core of what’s emerged over these last 30 years in the wedding world: Couples feel empowered to personalize their celebrations to reflect how their loves and lives feel, whether that means following tradition, tweaking it or bucking it fully. The canon is rich, and there’ll always be an inherent nostalgia to these events, no matter what decade they take place.

After all, a milestone like marriage doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it connects us with past and future generations, as well as those around us in the many moments of celebration that come with it. So before we look ahead to the next 30 years of weddings (more on page 62), it pays to see how far we’ve come, decade by decade.

1996–2006

Thirty years ago, the wedding industry was just starting to shake off the frilly trappings of the 1980s, though that’s not to say things felt any less formal. This era ushered in the precision of execution we see today, and with that came full-service wedding planners. “Our expertise has grown exponentially, and the jobs of designer, social secretary and wedding planning producer all melded into one,” says luxury wedding planner Marcy Blum, a fixture in the industry for four decades.

The transition through the new millennium was all about symmetry and achieving a level of elegance that read as sophisticated and refined. Think polish above personalization, with tradition and “hosting well” taking priority over uniqueness. “This era was rooted in formality and tradition,” says wedding and event planner Bryan Rafanelli, who began his career in 1996. “Weddings were structured, ceremonial and guided by long-standing norms. The gathering itself followed a clear script.” Ceremonies were often held in religious institutions, while receptions unfolded in venues that were already primed to host weddings, like banquet halls and hotel ballrooms.

Florals were lush (often appearing in white or pastel shades), with roses and lilies taking center stage. And while some bouquets cascaded down, others skewed monofloral and minimalist, with lilies of the valley particularly favored. Carolyn Bessette carried a bunch of the delicate white blossoms during her intimate 1996 wedding to John F. Kennedy Jr., as did model Stella Tennant, the granddaughter of Deborah Cavendish, Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, in her 1999 nuptials.

The Bessette-Kennedy trendsetter, now the subject of FX’s Love Story, also ushered in another defining style of the late ’90s: sleek minimalism, a chic, effortless and simple aesthetic epitomized by Bessette’s sleeveless slip dress. The “cool bride” of that decade in terms of fashion was easy and breezy, as also demonstrated by the mini dress Cindy Crawford donned at her 1998 beach nuptials. Still, a slightly streamlined iteration of the cupcakelike princess gown held on. (Think Cameron Diaz in 1997’s My Best Friend’s Wedding.) Blum says that this period of wedding planning was generally “very female-centric,” with not much consideration given to grooms.

Meet the Experts

Marcy Blum is an iconic New York City–based wedding and event planner (and one of the most influential planners globally), with 40 years of experience in an industry that’s now known for her luxurious, bespoke designs.

Stephanie Coontz is an author and historian specializing in gender, family and history. Her seven books include Marriage, A History: How Love Conquered Marriage, which was cited in the US Supreme Court decision on marriage equality in 2015.

Cate Doty is a writer, a journalism professor and the author of Mergers and Acquisitions: Or, Everything I Know About Love I Learned on the Wedding Pages. She oversaw the wedding pages during her nearly 15-year tenure at The New York Times.

Bryan Rafanelli, the founder and chief creative officer of Rafanelli Events, is a globally recognized wedding and event planner. He has produced immersive, high-profile celebrations for 30 years.

However, marriage and family historian Stephanie Coontz notes that, despite the continued imbalance of the planning workload, there was an undercurrent of equality bubbling up that proved pivotal in creating more intentional marriages.

“The 1990s were a time of rapid change in the predictors of marital success,” says Coontz, who attributes this shift to queer couples dissolving traditional gender roles. “From the 1950s through the 1980s, when a woman had more education or earned more money than her husband, that was a risk factor for divorce. And couples in which women did the bulk of housework and cooking reported being happier and having more sex. All that got reversed in the 1990s.”

On the cusp of the aughts, print publications were in their heyday—especially wedding magazines. Martha Stewart Weddings hit newsstands as a quarterly publication in 1999, and The Knot magazine debuted in 2000. “All of a sudden, middle-class brides across the country were learning about Vera Wang—her iconic ’90s dresses were so dreamy—and Monique Lhuillier before they even entered a bridal salon,” says writer Cate Doty. “The details from a Martha wedding, for a certain class of bride, were important: ribbons on chiavari chairs, bespoke wedding stationery, anemones and ranunculus, pale blue sashes and long rows of satin-covered buttons. Those things can feel like table stakes now, but 30 years ago they felt fresh and new.”

Celebrations scaled back slightly in the wake of 9/11, but weddings gradually swung back to bigger bashes in the following few years. And while they still retained some classic elements, the early 2000s redefined what qualified as elegant.

“When I started, a nice wedding was a church ceremony, some bridesmaids in matching dresses and a dinner at the country club,” says Doty. But the 2000s brought flash: Colors got brighter, the strapless ball gown peppered with pickups began to gain traction, tents were the new big thing and everything was getting a little bling.

2006–2016

The fairy-tale era was officially underway in weddings of the mid-2000s, with veils flowing from tiaras, sweetheart tables set up with throne-like chairs and the overall notion of luxury at the forefront. Celebrations were now about formality and scale, but still most likely to take place locally. The concept of “bride-as-princess” was no doubt sparked in part by the 2007 premiere of Say Yes to the Dress—viewers could yell at their TVs with the gusto of sports fans and clutch their pearls along with Randy Fenoli when brides requested a “sexy” gown. The program soon spurred the development of other wedding-centric reality shows that helped herald in the idea of nuptials as a spectacle or experience, rather than just a milestone.

Couples of this time were starting to crave personalization and differentiation: “The decade marked the beginning of intentional personalization,” says Rafanelli. “Couples began redefining the guest experience—

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choosing destinations, rewriting timelines and shaping events around shared interests and relationships.”

But while this stretch kicked off with sparkle, the Great Recession between 2007 and 2009 brought budgets back down to earth. And that, paired with a newfound desire for more unique weddings, launched the DIY boom. “I got married two years after the Great Recession, and DIY had become huge,” says Doty. “The opulence of early-aughts weddings—which I covered—was, for a time, overtaken by Mason jars and Etsy finds. And then the opulence merged with the Mason jars, and we ended up with fancy Mason jars.” The rise of this decor icon came along with the ascent of the barn wedding, as well as an embrace of rustic elements: sunflowers, tasteful burlap, cowboy boots worn with gowns.

The swing to DIY was an economic necessity for many, but around the same time, a major power player appeared that would empower couples who wanted a significant hand in creating their own wedding visions (and vision boards). Pinterest first popped onto the scene in 2010, and soon was offering a wellspring of inspiration for couples to assemble into infinite mood boards depicting their ideal celebrations.

And while the aforementioned barn may have been the venue du jour, other locales previously deemed untraditional were cropping up too. The classic church ceremony was often swapped for an alfresco “I do,” and guests danced the night away everywhere from vineyards to breweries, all now fixtures in the wedding-venue world. Along the same lines, this was also the time of getting experimental with desserts. The fondant-cloaked confections that had been popular gave way to cupcake towers, naked cakes and donut walls.

Pinterest wasn’t the only technological advancement influencing planning during this decade, either. The early stages of today’s ubiquitous wedding websites and online registries were taking hold, making it easier than ever to relay details to guests. And Instagram heralded in a new way for couples to put together

Peak Mason jar.

Pinterest is established, changing how we search and curate wedding inspo.

Instagram is born.

and share their nuptials. While Facebook, introduced back in 2004, had worked for a wedding-album photo dump (if you even felt like having one), Instagram encouraged curation and raised the stakes—especially during this pre-carousel time, when the ratio was just one photo per post.

Toward the end of this era, splashier celebrations were back on the docket, with social media sharing a fixture in couples’ minds as they planned. The period also saw the growth of destination weddings, grandiose second weddings and the wedding weekend, according to Blum. Bloggers were beginning to blossom into social-media influencers, and in turn the standard for wedding photography was elevated beyond planned poses and simple smiles.

Perhaps the most important wedding milestone in history closed this 10-year span: Gay marriage was legalized in the US in 2015—a boon for all couples, Coontz notes, as it helped blur the gender roles in wedding planning and model true equality for all. The future was bright—even if everyone was probably already a little sick of succulent centerpieces.

2016–2026

We now enter what we’re calling “the decade of details”: Weddings today are fully seen as expressions of the couple, not formulaic events. The late 20-teens brought a bevy of out-of-the-box elements: Eucalyptus and pampas grass were the floral fillers of the moment (often dispersed among tonal, berry-colored blossoms), and bouquets began to skew less structured. A vintage-boho theme evolved from the rustic weddings of previous years, bringing with it triangular wedding arches, crochet and macramé, and piecey, low-swept updos with decorative braids.

On the flip side, glam was the new take on traditional, encompassing gilded details, tufted furniture and clouds of manicured roses—not to mention the birth of the gilded-mirror seating chart and that script font. Cultural details (like, perhaps, threading marigolds through a wedding bouquet to nod to a marrier’s Indian heritage) began to appear in creative ways within wedding designs—every element requiring thoughtful selection.

“Broad-scale, it’s gotten even more curated and personalized. The industry itself has grown in its ability to cater to more cultures and religions,” says Doty. “I can guarantee you that 30 years ago, not many couples gave much thought to every single last detail, from guest books to place cards to welcome baskets—which were not even a thing then. There wasn’t as much variety and choice.”

Guest experience also emerged as a top priority (cited as such in The Knot Real Weddings Study every year from 2019 through the present); Blum notes that the standards for guest-centric elements like food and entertainment have risen significantly. In the same vein, less tangible

and more experiential options began to appear on registries in lieu of the staid kitchen appliances. Cash funds and honeymoon activities ascended the ranks, while the appearance of wedding china on registries fell from 28 percent in 2013 to 11 percent in the past few years, according to The Knot Registry Study.

Of course, a significant reason for this change in the registry landscape can be attributed to the increase in couples living together before marriage, a factor that’s also caused a shift in perception of the celebration itself. “It’s certainly changed what the wedding represents,” says Coontz. “It’s seen less as the beginning of a seriously committed relationship than as a celebration of the achievement of such a relationship.”

Come 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a movement of more-petite parties, which then pendulumed back to big celebrations. “I’m seeing larger bashes now versus 10 years ago,” says Blum. “Micro-weddings were popular because of COVID, and sometimes for other reasons, like the couple wants to go to Europe to wed but can’t have a party there.”

And with weddings in full swing again, party energy has entered its prime, with over-the-top details like Lambeth cakes, disco balls, champagne towers and tons of color becoming modern hallmarks: “Everything is bigger and better,” says Blum. Elaborate welcome parties are now staples of the wedding weekend, as are splashy after-parties, and many marriers will (or at least will feel pressure to) show off a new all-white look for each event.

“These days, it feels like nothing is too much—we’re truly back in the days of the Gilded Age when it comes to weddings,”

Weddings are more a reflection of personal taste and culture. Influences are now coming from architecture, interior design and fashion, rather than the strange ‘other’ category of wedding design.”

says Doty. “But now even that feels a bit quaint. Now it feels like the sky’s the limit.” Social media is inextricably woven into the fabric of weddings, from expectations set (without much explanation of cost and effort) by the elaborate nuptials of influencers, to the onset of hyperspecific Pinterest aesthetics like cottagecore, old money and coquette. It all emphasizes the high level of curation that couples crave, and how far the bar has been raised in terms of look and feel.

“In general, the aesthetic used to be ‘it’s a wedding,’” says Blum. “That’s changed. Weddings are more a reflection of personal taste and culture. Influences are now coming from architecture, interior design and fashion, rather than the strange ‘other’ category of wedding design.”

As we reach the present day, flowers with avant-garde shapes and meadowlike textures feel organically woven into the setting, while glowy ambient lighting and layered tablescapes encourage mingling and lingering, just as at a great dinner party. This push toward a higher level of design isn’t just about optics—it’s about creating an energy and building an atmosphere for guests. Enter: the wedding vibe, a culmination of the physical design of the event and the narrative these details

evoke when placed together. Such a profound level of thoughtfulness and purpose, according to Rafanelli, is today’s definition of a luxury wedding. Couples consider how their guests are guided emotionally, from arrival to departure.

“Social media heightened visual literacy, but it also forced couples to think critically about authenticity,” he says. “The most compelling weddings now are the ones that feel grounded and intentional in person, not just beautiful on-screen. The goal has shifted from spectacle to presence.”

Speaking of presence, taking the time to really soak in the sentimentality of the occasion is another modern must. First looks are up by 14 percent since 2016, according to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, with more than half of couples opting to see each other ahead of the ceremony. Unplugged ceremonies, in which guests are encouraged to be present and not take phone photos, are commonplace. Film photography with candid, documentary-style shots that capture celebrations authentically as they unfold, without excessive pausing and posing, and fuzzy, home-movie-esque Super 8 videography are signaling a nostalgia for bygone decades, when things seemed simpler and time moved slower.

As soonlyweds dabble with AI wedding planning and contend with budget concerns due to inflation, tariffs and other economic factors, intention is what defines how they curate their celebrations. They want the utmost care for their loved ones in attendance, and an unprecedented level of authorship.

“Couples now approach weddings with a deeper question in mind: ‘Why are we gathering these people, in this place, at this moment?’” Rafanelli says. “That clarity of purpose has changed everything about how we design and produce weddings today.”

Wedding Favors

THESE ARE THE IDEAS, SENTIMENTS AND THEMES OUR EXPERTS SAY HAVE HELD STRONG OVER THE LAST THREE DECADES THROUGH NOW.

Marcy Blum: “When the world is dark, like it is now, people want to celebrate happy things and the joining of people. For the most part, it’s the same as watching a movie. It’s the time in your life when a couple is celebrated—you’re allowed to be happy and selfcentered. That won’t change.”

Cate Doty: “One thing hasn’t changed across the years: No matter where you get married, how much you spend or how many personalized details you come up with, your wedding will not be the most important day of your life. Treat it like a fabulous scene-setter of the days to come as you build a life together.”

Stephanie Coontz: “Marriage is no longer a symbol of respectability, and not marrying is no longer looked down upon. But in some ways, marriage is a stronger statement about your own commitment and your confidence in your partner than it used to be.”

Bryan Rafanelli: “Over the last 30 years, weddings have evolved from events that followed tradition to gatherings defined by purpose. The most powerful celebrations today are those that are clear about why people are being brought together, and intentional about how that time is spent. At their core, weddings are still about bringing people together in a meaningful way. When a gathering is designed with care—for the people in the room, not just the image—it resonates across generations.”

The Marriage Market

The Marriage Market

By Cathryn Haight

We’d be living in a “wedding bubble,” so to speak, if we didn’t acknowledge that global economic factors come into play with weddings. A marriage is an investment in your relationship. And a wedding is, well, an investment. (A worthy one, at that—when else can you hug all of your loved ones in just a few hours?) While the emotional value of

Meet the Experts

Ashley Bleckner, MA, CFP, CDFA, is a managing director and private-wealth advisor at Ellevest. She has over a decade of experience in the financial-services industry and advises individuals, families and foundations on public and private market investing, transitions of wealth and sustainable investing.

Sam Bourgi is a senior finance analyst at InvestorsObserver. He has a background in economics and public policy, with an initial focus on monetary policy and macroeconomics.

Sara Faurer is a private wealth-management financial advisor at Ellevest. Previously, she worked at Goldman Sachs, investing for ultra-high-net-worth families, individuals and institutions.

throwing one has remained high, the level of spend has varied over the years. Below, we take stock of the evolution of wedding costs, how the broader economy has shaped them, what couples pay and other money matters, backed by insights from financial experts. Rest assured, though: We’ll always be bullish on celebration.

Investment Advisory

1

Stay Anchored in Your Priorities

“Start by identifying the two or three elements that matter most to you—for example, guest experience, photography or location—and allocate more of the budget there, while intentionally spending less elsewhere,” says Bourgi. Making this decision an active discussion with your partner is essential, Faurer adds, to see where you align and differ. She recommends making two lists: areas to splurge on, and areas to save on. “Planning a wedding feels like boarding a train that eases out of the station initially but picks up speed quickly, and before you know it you’ve lost control,” she says. “Come back to your wedding priorities in moments of spend creep, and remember what you deemed important and unimportant.”

2

Add Some Cushion

“Build in a 10-to 15-percent buffer,” says Bleckner. “Every wedding has at least one ‘wait, that costs how much?’ moment.”

3

Nail the “Who”

“Communicate and determine who’s paying for what early and explicitly,” says Bleckner. “Yours, mine, ours, parents, future you—clarity now avoids resentment later.” Bourgi adds, “Decide early how costs will be shared. Whether expenses are split evenly, proportionally to income or supported by family contributions, this breakdown should be clearly communicated up front.”

4

Set Up a Payment Schedule

“Outline a budget and communicate with any contributing parties, then establish a payment schedule for everyone who’s providing dollars throughout the planning process,” says Faurer. “Most vendors require an up-front deposit, and the balance is paid closer to the wedding date. Communicating in advance will help avoid cash-flow issues as you go.”

5 Remember the Guest-Count Effect

“Align on guest count early in the planning process,” says Faurer. “This is a key driver of cost and can have a big impact on setting a budget.”

6

Define the “Why”

“Name your ‘why’ before throwing numbers in a line item,” says Bleckner. “Is this about celebration, family, aesthetics or ease? The budget should follow the couple’s values, not the latest trend on TikTok.”

7 Start Early and Keep It Real

Bourgi recommends setting your budget ASAP, so costs don’t start adding up before you have a game plan. Also crucial: being okay with compromises. “Setting realistic expectations from the start is key,” he says. “For example, if wedding expenses are substantial, it may make sense to delay the honeymoon to avoid taking on another large expense at the same time.” Bleckner agrees: “Keep in mind the postwedding financial hangover. This can include the honeymoon, moving and potentially merging finances, and often hits right after.”

BEWARE OF BUDGET BLIND SPOTS

Account for these often-overlooked categories when making your OG wedding financial plan.

Wedding party gifts: Presents for your people should be prioritized.

Wedding insurance: You’ve got to spend a little money to ensure your investment is secure.

Thank-you notes: Your stationery spend will encompass more than just invites and save-the-dates.

Signage: Bundle the price of your welcome sign and bar sign into your decor budget.

Vendor tips and fees: Some are set at a recommended dollar range, but 15 to 20 percent is the typical tip rule of thumb. Also account for service fees and outside vendor fees, if applicable. And read all contracts carefully, so you know your full scope of spend.

Attire alterations: Your ’fit needs to fit, so reserve around $1K minimum to have on hand for tailoring.

A Macro View

Weddings don’t happen in a vacuum—in fact, the industry brings in billions per year. All’s to say they’re beholden to broad-scale economic shifts, just like everything else. According to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, 63 percent of couples’ budgets were affected by the current economy. Here’s the TL;DR from our experts on the major players affecting wedding costs, and how much $$$ couples set aside.

Inflation: Bourgi notes that the recent inflationary period that began in 2022 and proliferates today has caused costs to rise. “Elevated inflation has significantly increased venue, catering and service costs compared to even a few years ago,” he says. “Cumulative inflation for everything is up around 26 percent since 2020, give or take. Certain categories are higher, like food.” This includes flowers, rentals and general labor costs—which means quotes have the potential to shift drastically and quickly, leading many couples to lock in vendors early to avoid potential price upticks in the future.

Unsurprisingly, The Knot 2025 Economic Pulse Study found that inflation is top of mind for economically concerned soonlyweds. Among couples who cited the economy as their top concern, 81 percent were worried about inflation’s overall impact on their finances, while 74 percent were specifically uneasy about the rising cost of weddingrelated goods.

Supply and Demand: Whatever the economic climate at any given time, this principle is always at play. “Peak wedding months, popular venues and limited vendor availability drive prices higher,” says Bourgi. “If you’re getting married in peak season, you’ll have to book further in advance,

and the cost will be higher.”

Additionally, the labor shortages and backlog of postponed events during the pandemic created “pent-up demand,” he says, which pushed prices higher once the industry was back in full swing. Many of these elevated costs still proliferate today.

Supply-Chain Disruptions: When the flow of goods is interrupted, it results in 1) higher costs for remaining goods and services; 2) delays in getting goods to their next stop (think flowers to your florist); and 3) difficulties in getting materials to make goods, such as the fabric for a wedding dress.

Supply-chain disruptions skyrocketed during the pandemic, and the ripple effect is still seen today.

“It feels like there was a world of wedding budgets prepandemic, and an entirely different world of wedding budgets postpandemic,” says Faurer.

Interest Rates: “Higher rates make borrowing more expensive,” says Bourgi. “This matters if couples are using credit cards or personal loans to fund part of the event.”

The “Experience Economy”: It’s booming, especially postpandemic, as folks are willing to invest in events that build connection and evoke feeling, like a wedding. In turn, couples are more likely to splurge on details that make their celebration special, even if they’re beyond their means.

Social Media: While not a classic economic factor, this was cited by multiple experts as a significant driving force behind heightened wedding spend, starting in the 2010s. “Social trends have done a lot to influence everything about weddings, from prewedding showers and extravagant bachelorette parties to all-weekend festivities,” says Faurer. Bourgi adds: “Platforms like Instagram increased demand for highly curated, visually driven weddings, raising expectations and costs.”

Stock Up

See how much couples have invested in key wedding categories since 2019, and how those numbers have changed over the years amidst the significant economic volatility since then.

TWSE: The Wedding Stock Exchange

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Three

Three Decades of

SINCE THE 1900 S , THEY HAVE SERVED AS ONE SYMBOL OF MARRIAGE AND LOVE—BUT THEY CERTAINLY AREN’T ONESIZE-FITS-ALL. JEWEL EXPERTS BREAK DOWN THE MOST POPULAR DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT-RING TRENDS FROM THE LAST 30 YEARS, ALONG WITH PREDICTIONS FOR WHAT STYLES MAY DEFINE THE FUTURE.

By Sarah Hanlon

1990s

The most notable diamond-ring trends from the ’90s were a direct pivot from the previous decade, shifting from opulence to simplicity.

KEY STYLES

“The 1990s were an important turning point in fine jewelry, moving away from the excesses of the ’80s and embracing a more refined, minimalist aesthetic,” says Mark Broumand. “Solitaire engagement rings were by far the most popular, a favorite because of their simplicity and the focus on the center stone.”

Along with the usual round diamonds, certain fancy-cut shapes were desirable for an alternative look. “Those seeking more distinctive shapes gravitated toward the marquise, followed by the princess cut later in the decade,” says Rebecca Boyajian. “With its sharp angles and clean lines, it mirrored the era’s minimalist aesthetic and the emerging influence of the tech-forward future.”

SETTINGS

“White precious metals were the preferred choice, with white gold and platinum leading the way,” says Boyajian. “Platinum in particular saw a true resurgence. Known for its strength, secure setting properties, and

The Era of Simplicity

natural tendency to develop a patina over time, it became an iconic metal.”

Another recognizable aesthetic was the channel-set band. Broumand says this design, featuring a row of diamonds suspended between two metal walls, was highly soughtafter for its modern look. Those in the market for something bolder gravitated toward three-stone rings, which Boyajian notes drew inspiration from both the Victorian era and the mid-20th century.

THE IMPACT

With the influence of the internet still developing, engagement-ring trends were driven the old-fashioned way: via word of mouth and magazine advertisements. “This was before we had so much access to information and imagery,” says Jennifer Gandia. “So your taste was developed by looking at what the people in your circles were wearing and buying.”

ABOUT THE EXPERTS

Rebecca Boyajian is director of market development for the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), an authority on diamond education and research.

Mark Broumand is a Los Angeles–based jeweler. He opened his first showroom in 2002.

Jean Dousset, the great-great-grandson of Louis Cartier, specializes in designing lab-grown diamond jewelry.

Jennifer Gandia is a co-owner of Greenwich St. Jewelers, an NYCbased company that opened in 1976.

Sally Morrison is the US natural diamonds market lead for De Beers Group. Founded in 1888, it’s the world’s leading diamond company.

Alexandra Samit is the founder of NYC-based company Alexandra Beth Fine Jewelry.

Nicole Wegman is the founder of Ring Concierge, a jewelry brand launched in 2013 that operates online and in four cities across the US.

that operates online across US

Diamonds Di a m o nd s

The Era of Accents

2000s

Engagement-ring trends don’t always start fresh at the turn of a new decade, as exemplified by this period.

KEY STYLES

According to Sally Morrison, the top styles of this period featured accent details that amped up their visual appearance. “The 2000s saw two strong trends,” she says. “The increasing dominance of the three-stone ring, plus the rise of the pavé halo.”

loss compared with round brilliants,” he says. “That efficiency translated into more competitive pricing at the time, making the princess especially appealing to couples who wanted a larger-looking diamond without a cor-

showcase the center stone more prominently,” he explains, adding that the hottest colors remained the same ones that characterized the ’90s: “Platinum and white gold continued to dominate, reinforcing the cool, modern aesthetic of the era ”

THE IMPACT

This decade saw a rise in intentionality

when it came to engagement-ring shopping. Three-stone rings were popular in part because of their sentimental nature: The diamonds were believed to represent the past, present and future of a couple’s relationship.

The era ushered in the opportunity for gemologists—and consumers—to challenge norms without abandoning tradition, notes Jean Dousset. Princess cuts remained a top choice, which helped shoppers maximize their budgets. “The square shape allowed cutters to retain more of the original rough diamond, resulting in less material

Broumand says couples were beginning to pay mo structural desig ring “Settings b elevated and su

ters to retain more of the in less material

Boyajian says this decade also paved the way for larger designs that would define the future. “In contrast to the understated 1990s, the 2000s leaned into shine, glitz and glam,” she says. “To add even more sparkle, clients began collecting stacking rings, building a jewelry suite to reflect their

the way for that contrast to the understated the 2000s leaned into and she says “To add even more clients a suite to reflect their personal style ”

2010s

Bythisdecade,theinternethadentirely transformed the shopping experience, inspiring a new wave of trends. “The 2010s coincided with the rise of social media, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, which dramatically changed howengagementringswerediscovered and shared,” Dousset says. “Rings needed to photograph well, sparkle from every angle and feel visually distinctive.” Alexandra Samit concurs, noting that these apps drove couples to find more unique, shareable styles: “Couples wanted rings that stood out while still feeling timeless.”

SETTINGS

transformed the inspiring a new wave of trends. “The with media, Instagram and which and Dousset says. needed to from every angle and feel distinctive ” Alexandra Samit concurs, that these apps drove to find more shareable wanted rings that stood out while still timeless.”

KEY STYLES

In addition to rose-gold metal, Dousset says, pavé bands, milgrain borders and hidden halos were among the stylistic elements entering the market: “East-west settings and low-profile designs also gained traction, as consumers became more design-literate and intentional about personal style.” Morrison says this signaled a continuation of the trend toward clients expressing individuality through their engagement ring, which would gain even more prominence in the decades to come.

THE IMPACT

Two aesthetics in particular spiked in popularity. “Just as the princess cut defined the 1990s, nothing captured the 2010s more than a center stone set in rose gold with a halo,” says Boyajian. Per Dousset, some of the most popular center-stone shapes were elongated styles like ovals, emeralds and pears.

Two aesthetics in particular spiked in popularity “Just as the cut defined the more a center stone set in rose with a says Boyajian Per Dousset, some of the most popular center-stone were like ovals, emeralds and pears

The Era of Virality

Information about diamond rings was becoming more widely accessible, enabling couples to make more educated shopping decisions. “Halos amplified perceived size and brilliance, allowing for a larger visual presence without requiring a proportionally larger center stone. This made them especially appealing from a value standpoint, as they extended the impact of the ring while keeping pricing accessible,” Dousset says. “Ovals offered elegance with a flattering finger-elongating effect, and rose gold brought warmth, romance and a sense of individuality without feeling radical.” Adds Broumand: “The 2010s let clients finally have both the tools and the confidence to seek out a ring that felt uniquely theirs.”

2020s

If there’s one word to encapsulate engagement-ring trends of the current moment, it’s “individuality”—by now a dominant force in couples’ decision-making.

KEY STYLES

Because of today’s vast access to inspiration and design capabilities, it’s nearly impossible to narrow down to one defining trend or aesthetic. “Clients want rings that feel designed with them, not for them,” says Dousset. Just as the three-stone ring’s nod to past, present and future made it popular in the ’90s, Samit says, the desire for intentionality lives on in this decade, albeit in a bolder way: “Couples are mixing shapes, stacking bands, experimenting with colored metals and choosing designs that tell their story.”

We also must acknowledge the impact of lab-grown diamonds. Although the Gemological Institute of America reports that they were first developed in the 1950s, these gems’ popularity skyrocketed in the 2010s, leading to mainstream adoption in the 2020s. According to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, the majority of engagement rings—61 percent— featured a lab-grown center stone. “Their rise comes down to a combination of accessibility, transparency and choice,” says Broumand. “They allow clients to maximize size and quality by choosing a larger or higher-grade stone, in a way that was never possible before at accessible price points.”

And that’s made lab-grown stones increasingly attractive to many couples, he adds: “In a decade defined by person-

alization, they give people more creative freedom, allowing them to focus on design, craftsmanship and meaning rather than cost limitations.”

SETTINGS

While ultra-thin bands spiked in the late 2010s and early 2020s, this decade has since welcomed more variety. “We’re moving away from ‘bestseller culture’ and toward custom proportions, intentional negative space, mixed metals, asymmetry and multiple stone combinations,” says Dousset. Boyajian agrees: “The 2020s have brought arguably the greatest diversity in engagement-ring styles of any decade.”

THE IMPACT

This explosion has paved the way for more design creativity, per Nicole Wegman. “Clients are confident in choosing rings that match their personal style, instead of what’s expected,” she says. “Each ring tells a story, and the goal is to make the process feel fun and approachable. When the focus is on what feels personal rather than following a trend, the ring always ends up being so much more special.”

The Era of Individuality

2030 + Beyond

What’s the next big diamond engagement-ring trend? Perhaps the only certainty is that individuality and personality will further push the boundaries of jewelry design. “The future is all about intention,” Wegman says. “Rings will continue moving away from trends and toward being personal and meaningful.”

KEY STYLES

Given the popularity of lab-grown diamonds, which allow couples to buy near-flawless gems for a far lower cost than that of similar mined options, Gandia predicts a rise in desert diamonds: mined stones with a naturally darker, earthy hue.

The Era of Innovation

Jewelers also expect to see increased demand for antique diamonds, including old mine and old European cuts—dubbed by some as the “Taylor Swift effect,” inspired by her 2025 engagement to Travis Kelce. After all, the last three decades have proved that what’s old always has the power to become new again. That means we may see a resurgence of styles from recent decades too, of course. “As diamond engagement rings are passed down through generations in the 2030s and 2040s, 2010s styles—such as ovals and square cushions—are likely to see a revival,” says Boyajian.

SETTINGS

Thanks to evolving technological capabilities in the jewelry industry, Samit predicts more “personalized engraving, unconventional stones, mixed metals and one-of-a-kind geometric or sculptural settings that push traditional boundaries.”

THE ROYAL REPORT

Not only does this pair of famous rings embody key jewelry trends from the last three decades— they’re almost as recognizable as the wearers themselves.

Kate Middleton

Prince William proposed in 2010 with a colorful oval-shaped gem in a diamond halo, which he sourced from the collection of his late mother, Princess Diana.

Meghan Markle

The future As Ever founder received a three-stone ring from Prince Harry in 2017. It features side stones from Princess Di’s collection and a diamond from Botswana, a country with significance in their love story.

THE IMPACT

Even with all the innovative possibilities, the engagement ring will continue to sparkle with each passing generation. “Though the designs may change and evolve as each generation strives to express themselves in fresh ways, diamonds have carried emotion and meaning for millennia,” Morrison says. “That will not go away.”

WEDDINGS OF THEN & NOW

Icon Status

OVER THE LAST 30 YEARS, A SELECT NUMBER OF HIGH-PROFILE CELEBRITY

WEDDINGS HAVE LEFT A POIGNANT MARK ON THE INDUSTRY. FROM GRAND SPECTACLES TO INTIMATE AFFAIRS, LOOK BACK ON THE MOST RECOGNIZED NUPTIALS SINCE 1996.

By Sarah Hanlon

John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette

2004

Prince Felipe VI and Letizia Ortiz

Over 1,200 people attended the 2004 royal wedding of King (then Prince) Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. At the time, he was an heir and she was a journalist; Felipe had asked a mutual friend to introduce them after he saw Letizia reporting on television. The bride wore a reported $10 million dress with a nearly 15-foot train, which included threads of real gold. The ceremony was held in the Almudena Cathedral at the Royal Palace of Madrid.

The late John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy set the standard for minimonies. The political scion and fashion publicist married on September 21, 1996, on Cumberland Island, a remote hideaway off the coast of Georgia. Bessette donned an ivory Narciso Rodriguez slip dress that would go on to define late-’90s bridal style. Forty guests were invited to attend the discreet candlelit ceremony at the First African Baptist Church.

minimonies The scion and fashion married on 21, 1996, on Cumberland a remote off the coast of Georgia Bessette donned an Narciso sl to define late-’90s br were to ceremony at the Firs

2008

Jay-Z popularized the no-phones wedding. The A-listers invited 40 guests to the secret nuptials at their Tribeca penthouse in New York City, importing 70,000 white orchids from Thailand to transform their living room. The bride’s mother, Tina Lawson, designed her strapless ball gown.

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi

After she publicly came out in 1997, Ellen DeGeneres’ eponymous primetime sitcom made history as the first mainstream show to have a lesbian lead character. The announcement sparked intense interest in her personal life. Following the initial overturn of California’s same-sex marriage ban, she wed actor Portia de Rossi at their home. Both wore custom Zac Posen ensembles: DeGeneres opted for a white pantsuit, while de Rossi donned a white and pink ombré dress.

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka

Despite their seven-year romance, actors Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka waited until same-sex marriage was legally recognized in New York in 2011 to announce their engagement. Three years later they exchanged vows at a castle in Perugia, Italy, and the destination wedding featured a few meaningful appearances: Harris’ How I Met Your Mother director Pam Fryman officiated, and Elton John performed during the reception. The couple’s twins, Harper and Gideon, were also present

2011

Prince William and Kate Middleton

An estimated 2 billion people worldwide reportedly watched British heir Prince William marry his college sweetheart, Princess Catherine, at Westminster Abbey. The royal spectacle included a guest list of nearly 2,000 people. The bride wore a long-sleeve lace dress designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, which has become one of the most emulated styles of the modern bridal era.

September 2014

August 2014

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade

Actor Gabrielle Union and NBA star Dwyane Wade exchanged vows at a mansion in Miami. The bride walked down the aisle while John Legend sang his hit “You and I.” Other celebrity guests included NBA legend LeBron James and Kevin Hart. Rapper Ludacris performed and drummer/ producer Questlove DJed during the event.

September 2014

November 2017

Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian

With a lavish theme inspired by Beauty and the Beast, tennis icon Serena Williams married Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian in New Orleans. Guests including Anna Wintour, Kim Kardashian and Beyoncé were invited to dress in French ball-inspired attire. The bride wore a custom Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen ball gown with a sparkly cape for the ceremony before changing into two Versace reception looks, one styled with bejeweled Nike sneakers. (Hear from the couple’s planner, Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events, in our cover story on page 94.)

George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin

Paparazzi and fans alike flocked to Venice, Italy, to catch a glimpse of the glamorous wedding of actor George Clooney and human-rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin. The bride wore a lace Oscar de la Renta gown for the ceremony, while the groom donned an Armani tux. Their raucous reception reportedly lasted until 5 a.m. the following morning.

May 2017

2017

Pippa Middleton and James Matthews

After Pippa Middleton served as maid of honor in the wedding of her sister, Kate, to Prince William, her own May 2017 nuptials to hedge-fund manager James Matthews garnered worldwide attention as well. The wedding took place at St. Mark’s Church in Englefield, Berkshire. Her niece and nephew, Princess Charlotte and Prince George, served as a flower girl and page boy. After the ceremony, the newlyweds celebrated with guests at the Middleton family estate in Bucklebury.

May 2018

December 2018

Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra

Singer Nick Jonas and actor Priyanka Chopra’s wedding was a vibrant celebration of their heritages. Following a series of Indian celebrations, including a puja and a sangeet, they hosted multiple ceremonies over one weekend. It began with a Christian service at Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan Palace, followed by a traditional Hindu ceremony. The newlyweds hosted a lavish reception in New Delhi, and then a second one in Mumbai two weeks later.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex’s wedding was a global sensation, and for good reason: It marked the first time a member of the British royal family married an American actor. After the couple were introduced by mutual friends, the royal’s romance with the former Suits star took the world by storm. Their televised Windsor Castle nuptials blended aristocratic traditions with American gospel-choir influences. The private reception included a performance by Elton John and a DJ set by actor Idris Elba.

2021

Lily Collins and Charlie McDowell

Ralph Lauren designed the hooded lace cape that actor Lily Collins wore to marry director/screenwriter Charlie McDowell at the luxury cabins of Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado. In keeping with the remote venue’s 40-guest cap, it was an intimate affair. Both the bride’s and groom’s famous parents were in attendance: Collins’ father, singer Phil Collins; McDowell’s mother, actor Mary Steenburgen; and his stepfather, actor Ted Danson.

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September 2024

July 2024

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant

In one of the most expensive weddings ever, billionaire heir Anant Ambani and businesswoman Radhika Merchant dominated headlines with their opulent celebrations, which spanned seven months. The festivities began with a lavish engagement celebration in January, followed by a weekend party starring Rihanna in March, a luxury Mediterranean cruise in May, a star-studded sangeet in July, and a three-day wedding in India later the same month. The events were attended by political figures, business tycoons, royal dignitaries and celebrities.

Rebel Wilson and Ramona Agruma

Actor Rebel Wilson and fashion designer Ramona Agruma, wore coordinating

in September 2024 Guests

fare before a 20-person band kept the party going until the early hours of the morning

2025

Selena Gomez over a Taco Bell picnic with a bathtubful of queso, their nuptials became the subject of public fascination. The couple’s vendors even constructed a tent over their Santa Barbara, California, wedding venue to prevent paparazzi from leaking photos. Gomez wore a sequence of three custom Ralph Lauren gowns, and the guest list included a number of stars, including her longtime bestie, Taylor Swift, and her Wizards of Waverly Place castmates.

Style:Aisle Ai

Then &Now

WE EXPLORE NINE FASHION

ARCHETYPES

THAT HAVE DEFINED THE WEDDING LANDSCAPE FROM THE ’90S TO TODAY.

By Cathryn Haight

There’s a reason the finale look on every couture runway is known as “the bride.” Wedding gowns are the pinnacle of a designer’s artistic vision, coming together with careful construction, an adept sewing hand and, often, details that take 100 hours or more to get just right. The collections themselves and the creative minds behind them have shifted over the last three decades, but the level of craftsmanship hasn’t changed, and neither has the slate of recurring wedding-fashion archetypes that have held relevance, then and now. The looks falling under each share a defining quality—which can be anything from a neckline to a material to trappings taken from a certain historical period. We’ve seen these archetypes in abundance as we attend fashion shows, zoom in on photos of celebrity gowns and drool over archival images from bygone runways (looking at you, bedazzledcross minidress from the 1997 Atelier Versace show). So here, we’re tracing how these iconic paradigms, past and present, take shape, each paired with a modern update to a beauty throwback. Ready to find your altar ego?

THEN

Puff sleeves were a fixture of early-’90s wedding gowns after gaining traction in the ’80s. But these design details also recall a much earlier era in fashion—an earlier century, in fact: The Renaissance was the golden age of statement sleeves. Their later-stage counterparts still have a royal feel (recalling Princess Diana’s 1981 gown).

MODERN MAKEOVER

Matte ’90s brownish blush fuchsia-pink cream blush

Silky cream blush will finish thisromantic, mildly Renaissance-princess look with a touch of dewy color.

The Poised in Puff Sleeves

NOW

We all remember the puff-sleeve revival of the early 2020s: Every summer top and flowy frock was adorned with a set—and that ubiquity extended to wedding gowns. Detachable, off the shoulder, extravoluminous, these dramatic details can lean from rustic-milkmaid to elevated and aristocratic. And they can read as stately or ethereal, depending on their fabric. to aristocratic And can read as or ethereal, on their fabric

THEN

Initially fashioned for petticoats in 18th-century France, tulle has since come out from its spot under skirts to make stylish statements. Perhaps the most iconic use of the graceful fabric: the cloudlike gowns Vera Wang released from the mid-’90s through the aughts. The fluff of the frock Kate Hudson donned in 2009’s Bride Wars is a prime example.

NOW

This archetype still pulls from the ’40s and ’50s, though necklines skew square. (Marilyn Monroe, the quintessential example, rocked one herself in her 1956 nuptials to Arthur Miller.) Also popularized midcentury, balconette necklines—which stay straight at the corners like a square, but rise and fall like a sweetheart—are in. Dresses are made from liquid-like satins, that skim the body without squeezing it, and are often paired with long gloves.

The Ballerina

NOW

Present-day tulle leans into its ballet roots, with slightly subtler shapes that move and fall like a romanticstyle tutu. Silhouettes are less extravagant and more graceful, with tops that look like leotards and just enough fluff on the bottom to get a swishy skirt. The volume can be diffused with tiers, à la Mandy Moore’s 2018 pink Rodarte wedding gown.

Dramatic

Dramat e brown

Still dramatic but much more wearable, this current look has the same soft edges without the heavy pigment.

blurred more this same soft without the pigment

The Cinema Siren

THEN

Identified

va-va-voom, this

Identified by high-octane, ultra-femme va-va-voom, this style seductively walks the line between classic and sexy. The iteration that proliferated throughout the 2000s embraced Old Hollywood in a literal sense: Sweetheart necklines and figure-hugging mermaid gowns were of-the-moment, especially when worn with sideswept finger waves and birdcage veils. Red lipstick was, of course, essential.

sexy The iteration that proliferated the 2000s embraced Old in a literal sense: Sweetheart necklines and figure-hugging mermaid gowns were when worn with waves and veils Red was, of course, essential

MODERN MAKEOVER

2000s frosted lip shimmery highlighter

Shimmer wasn’t just for gowns in the “bling era”—a subtle sparkle on the cheeks lets dress details shine (with a little more shine).

NOW

Dazzling crystals have given way to details that are equally ornate but less overtly flashy. Modern opulence takes shape as perfectly placed pearls, richly pleated textures, oversize rosettes fashioned from luxe satins, plunging necklines and sheer panels carving out shapes within a gown’s silhouette. Not to mention: bows with tails as long as trains.

2. Esé Azénabor

3. Vera Wang

4. Christian Lacroix

5. Monique Lhuillier

6. Ines Di Santo

7. Esé Azénabor

8. Pnina Tornai x Kleinfeld

THEN

The Opulent

More, more, more: The early aughts ushered in a very specific brand of opulence, the bling era. And we can’t talk about bling without mentioning Pnina Tornai, the embellishment queen of the 2000s, who bejeweled her gowns to the max.

Beading, feathers, appliqués and ohso-many crystals adorned exaggerated g ball gowns al mermaids and big ball gowns alike

THEN

When we think of the “it” gowns of the late 2000s, we think strapless necklines and mermaid silhouettes that snatched to the knees. Some styles were heavily ruched, cinching the wearer in swoops of fabric; others were stretched with lace, a Monique Lhuillier signature. Typically, necklines were straight across or sweetheart.

The Sexy & Strapless

NOW

While the standard sweetheart has always been a crowd favorite, when the shape is pushed in an avant-garde direction, the result is truly special. Enter the modern iterations of the strapless look, which stun with architectural shapes and hard edges that contrast with flowing fabrics. One modern (but antique-inspired) style that’s on trend is the cat-eye neckline, which swoops down in the middle and rises into points on each side.

been a crowd when the is in an the result is ter iterations of apless which stun with archictural and hard that ntrast with fabrics One dern style at’s on trend is the cat-eye ich swoops down in the middle and es into points on each side

MODERN MAKEOVER

2010s matte lip lived-in blurred lip

2010s matte lived-in blurred gowns in the 2010s were with a matte lip The blurred is the ideal swap; it’s still shine-free

We’ll bet that most strapless wedding gowns in the 2010s were paired with a matte lip. The blurred lip is the ideal swap; it’s still shine-free but brings a more diffuse, light texture and hue.

THEN

Carolyn Bessette cut through the noise of ’90s cupcake dresses with her sleek Narciso Rodriguez number. Other icons of the era (Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss) sported similar cuts as well. The slip dress was a predecessor to other “lingerie” elements that have made their way into wedding gowns, like corsetry and exposed boning. gowns, like corsetry and

We’re

NOW

The Minimalist

Simple never goes out of style. In fact, the very same bias-cut slip dresses of the ’90s have been an au courant look in recent years for everyone from marriers to wedding party members to guests. Some might gather into a soft cowl neck, while others could shape up with a square neckline. Spaghetti straps are common and, these days, the style is often paired with a flowy neck scarf, worn with the tails trailing in the back for added interest.

The Chapel-Chic Cutie

1. Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

2. Alyssa Kristin

3. Soucy

4. Peter Langner

THEN

The little white dress of years past was a statement—a little carefree, a little quirky and rather nonconformist, as far as wedding attire goes. It was worn for elopements and courthouse affairs, or by decidedly alternative brides. Otherwise, it presented a leggy “oooh, ahhh” moment on runways (see Claudia Schiffer’s look in Chanel’s 1992 show, above).

THEN

A go-to for the cool girl at the courthouse and beyond, white suiting looks were musts for chic marriers. Silhouettes skewed more feminine in the bridal suit’s earlier iterations, with flared pants and nipped-in waists. And some styles paired suit jackets with flowy crepe skirts for balance. Also in this category: the inception of the bridal jumpsuit, fueled by Solange Knowles in 2014.

MODERN MAKEOVER

’80s/’90s pink eye shadow a brush of blush at the end of the nose

Both pops of pink are innocent yet cheeky, embracing the whimsical feel of short dresses and spur-of-the-moment ceremonies.

Nowadays, the LWD is a staple of the wedding wardrobe are,

actually) While they began from to to after-party are on and favored em-

of 3D flower silk rosettes and bows

wardrobe (multiple are, actually). While they began mostly as second looks or reception outfit swaps, statement-making minis now appear everywhere from the bach weekend to the rehearsal dinner to the after-party. Silky slip styles are on trend, and favored embellishments include scatters of pearls, 3D flower appliqués, silk rosettes and bows.

4.

5.

N O W

The Modern Muse

You’ll still see of chic white suits grace runways and but embrace a more masculine shape pants, shoulder and relaxed construction make for an easy whether appear within a p or aforementio neck

add a little extra as do e constructed from silks

You’ll still see plenty of chic white suits grace runways and aisles, but they embrace a more boxy, masculine shape. Flowy wide-leg pants, light shoulder pads and relaxed single-button construction make for an easy fit. And whether they appear within a pant-andblazer look or the aforementioned wedding jumpsuit, plunge necklines add a little extra spice, as do ensembles constructed from flowing silks.

2010s black winged liner thin black tightline

Evolve the wing to the waterline for an updated edgy look.

THEN

When Victorian-inspired fashions hit runways over the past three decades, they were all about the delicate details: long lace sleeves, scallop-edge mock turtlenecks, tiny covered buttons that trailed from nape to hem. Trains went to great lengths, likely a nod to Kate Middleton’s Victorian-esque gown in her 2011 nuptials.

The VictorianRegal

NOW

Modern gowns that give Victorian vibes evoke the era’s eveningwear. Collarbone-flattering off-the-shoulder necklines are gaining popularity, and the Basque waist (especially tapering off the bottom edge of a corset) has been a Bridal Fashion Week regular of the last two seasons. Decorative bows are fastened on sleeves and at the waist, and lace—while still on the scene—has taken a slight back seat to silk and satin.

necklines are gaining and the Basque waist off the bottom of a has been a Bridal Fashion Week of the last two seasons. are on at the waist, and lace while still on the scene has taken a back seat to silk and satin.

Designers Through the Decades

THE BRIDAL INDUSTRY HAS EXPERIENCED SIGNIFICANT CHANGE, CONFRONTING TRENDS, THE INFLUENCE OF TASTEMAKERS AND PASSING GENERATIONS OVER THE LAST 30 YEARS. ESTHER LEE SPEAKS TO AN EXCLUSIVE GROUP OF PREEMINENT BRIDAL DESIGNERS FOR THEIR PERSPECTIVES.

ONE MIGHT ARGUE that no aspect of wedding planning holds more importance to a bride than what she will wear. The white dress, an archetype emblematic of weddings around the world, has held sway since Queen Victoria first formally introduced the enduring fashion symbol in the 19th century. Beyond that, however, trends constantly shift to reflect the times: 100 years ago, in the 1920s, for instance, bridal gowns consisted of bias-cut silk with embellishments, reflecting the flapper-era style. A decade later, during the height of the Great Depression, a more modest and simple style took hold.

As for the year 2026, future fashion and wedding historians (myself included) will note that the fast turnover of macro trends, fueled by social media and driven by hyper-personalization, resulted in many different types of styles. But the truth is, it’s up to the forces behind the looks to shape what will become emblematic of this period. So while the rest can speculate, we went directly to the creators.

Reem Acra

One of my first and most formative weddings was that of a family friend when I was in college. At a cricket club, the bride stood resplendent in a strapless, off-white crepe gown with intricate embellishments that flickered as she danced around the venue. It was a Reem Acra gown, and a couture piece at that—and it was my first impression for what a wedding dress should be.

“My aesthetic has always been regal, embellished and guided by a belief in individuality,” says Acra, who launched her eponymous bridal brand 29 years ago. “Rather than following an existing path, I focused on creating something authentic and true to myself. I’m grateful that this approach has resonated with others, has inspired designers who came after me and continues to shape the work of the brand today.”

Esther Lee: What is it about you, your brand and your influence that you particularly feel has been resonant with couples throughout the years?

Reem Acra: I have always believed that a bride should feel powerful, confident and unmistakably herself. That commitment to elegance with personality has resonated for decades, because it celebrates not just beauty, but identity.

EL: What do you love most about the business of weddings? What compelled you to enter the industry and to remain in it?

RA: I entered the wedding industry because I love helping each bride shine on one of the most meaningful days of her life. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing it come to life on her wedding day.

EL: Share a defining moment for your brand when you knew you were onto something special. How did it change the game for you and your business?

RA: From day one, the brand stood apart. It was bold and distinctive, and carried a clear sense of individuality. That early connection confirmed I was building something special, and it set the tone for the brand’s evolution ever since.

EL: What do you wish modern couples knew about weddings today?

RA: I hope this beautiful new generation focuses on who they truly are, rather than trying to be someone else. Marriage is a celebration of two individuals coming together, each with their own identity. With so much information and influence surrounding weddings today, it’s important not to lose sight of authenticity and personal expression.

EL: What do you forecast for the weddings of tomorrow?

RA: While weddings will continue to evolve into many different forms, I see the future leaning toward experiences that are deeply personal and rich with emotional traditions.

MARK INGRAM

I last ran into Mark Ingram several years ago, at an industrygalainBocaRaton,Florida,withathemeofgoldgilded glamour. “I love your look,” he said, pointing to my gold silk skirt. I beamed, and the industry would agree: There is no greater compliment in the bridalstyling business than one from Ingram, the arbiter of great taste and a force to be reckoned with. A seller, merchandiser, retailer, stylist and now designer, he has touched every aspect of luxury bridal fashion. It is what makes him the best in the game. The owner of his own namesake retail location and bridal line, Ingram also carries Vera Wang, Ines Di Santo and other coveted names at his atelier on Madison Avenue in NYC.

fast-paced, cutthroat ready-to-wear segment of the fashion business into the slower-paced, more intimate and personalized world of bridal. Lucky to land my first position at Amsale, and sitting beside her daily, I learned from the master and honed the additional skills I needed, as well as the ones I innately had that suited me for a career in bridal. I love making people happy ... making dreams come true ... creating beautiful things and experiences. That is the essence of me.

EL: In your opinion, what is your main differentiator? What is the point of view that makes you and your brand so “you”?

Mark Ingram: Most designer flagships rarely have the designer or owner on premises. It sets brides at ease to meet the designer, to be “heard” by the designer. With more and more no longer visiting stores and attending trunk shows, I believe the connection with their customer gets weaker. In turn, I get firsthand knowledge of how to interpret what brides want for themselves, and I use that as fodder for my future collections. Additionally, I buy and represent 14 other designer brands at my atelier. It allows me a broader overview of the bridal market, and can offer my brides so many stylistic options.

“Although I am in the business of selling and making all bridal dreams and wishes come true, I want couples to always keep in mind the marriage first and the wedding second,” Ingram says. “More is not always more. Being too caught up in the frenetics of planning a wedding and striving for ‘perfection’ is a dangerous and unnecessary trap. I want couples to enjoy the ride in the hands of seasoned and reputable experts, to make the process a beautiful and memorable one.”

EL: What do you love most about the business of weddings? What compelled you to enter the industry and to remain in it?

MI: As a child, I’d watch brides enter and leave the church literally across the street from my grandparents’ living-room window on Saturdays. I would make tissue-paper dresses and veils on my grandmother’s delft figurines. So brides and bridal gowns were an early obsession. Many years later, helping plan my sister’s wedding introduced me to the industry, and that’s when I truly became enchanted. I moved out of the extremely

(Editor’s note: The late Amsale Aberra remains one of the most formative bridal designers in the business, particularly for her impact on gowns in the 1990s. Her legacy lives on with her husband and daughter at the Amsale flagship store in NYC and local bridal salons that carry the brand today.)

EL: Share a defining moment for your brand when you knew you were onto something special. How did it change the game for you and your business?

MI: There have been many defining moments in my 30-year bridal career, and I hope there will be many more as I continue to evolve. But I must say that three events changed the trajectory of my brand overall. The first was early live appearances on the Martha Stewart Living TV program, which gave me validation as a luxury bridal brand retailer, expert and spokesperson. The second was when I appeared as myself in a “re-created for TV” version of my atelier on season 1 of Gossip Girl. It was an absolute game changer. Despite having aired 18 years ago on network TV, it remains the gift that keeps giving, introducing me to millions of viewers over the years. My stock certainly shot up after that initial appearance! Third was the creation of my own bridal designs, which at the time I believed necessary after having lost a very important label in my store. That void—the loss of this popular luxury bridal brand, as well as what I felt was missing in the US market—provided the impetus to create my own [label].

Ask the biggest planners, designers and pros in the industry how they came to be, and many will say their joy in weddings was sparked by planning their own. “I have always loved designing for real moments and real women,” says designer Sareh Nouri of her namesake label and USAbased atelier. “My own wedding gown was the first dress I ever designed, and that experience sparked everything that [followed]. I realized how powerful it was to create something that could make a woman feel beautiful, strong and herself on such an important day.”

EL: What is it about you, your brand and your influence that you particularly feel has been resonant with couples throughout the years?

Sareh Nouri: I think what has resonated most over the years is that my designs have always come from a very personal place. I started this brand with the idea that a wedding gown should feel emotional and meaningful, not just beautiful. I have never been interested in chasing trends—I want brides to look back at their photos decades from now and still love what they wore.

Sareh Nouri

“I’ve stayed in this business because of the brides and their stories. Seeing generations of women in the same family wear my designs, and hearing how much their gown meant to them years later, reminds me why I do this,” Nouri says. “It’s a business built on emotion and connection, and that’s what continues to inspire me every day. It’s not solely about a dress; it’s about confidence, family and memory-making.”

My brand has always focused on craftsmanship, quality and romance, and I think couples feel that care in every detail. So many of our brides come from families where a sister, cousin or even mother wore one of my gowns, and that means everything to me. It tells me that what we create becomes part of their story, not just their wedding day. At the heart of it, I just want each bride to feel like the most confident and beautiful version of herself, and I think that authenticity is what’s connected with couples year after year.

EL: In your opinion, what is your main differentiator? What is the point of view that makes you and your brand so “you”?

SN: Everything I create is driven by emotion, craftsmanship and intention. I don’t design gowns just to be worn once—I design them to become part of a woman’s story, something she will look back on with pride and love for decades. My point of view has always been rooted in timeless beauty rather than trends, with a focus on romantic silhouettes, beautiful fabrics and thoughtful details that feel personal to each bride. Another huge part of what makes my brand “me” is that every gown is proudly made in the USA in our own atelier. That allows me to be deeply involved in the process from sketch to final fitting, and it ensures an incredible level of quality, fit and care. It also means we’re supporting skilled artisans and keeping the craft of bridal design close to home, which is

something I’m very proud of. At the heart of it, my brand is about authenticity—creating gowns that feel elegant, emotional and truly reflective of the bride wearing them.

EL: Share a defining moment for your brand when you knew you were onto something special. How did it change the game for you and your business?

SN: When I was still so new and just starting out, I had only a small collection and very little experience in the business side of things, but I believed deeply in what I was creating. When Kleinfeld Bridal picked up my collection, it was one of those moments where everything suddenly felt real. I remember thinking, “Maybe I really can do this.” That opportunity changed the game for me. Kleinfeld introduced my designs to brides from all over the world and gave the brand a level of visibility and credibility at a time when I was still finding my footing. It pushed me to grow faster, work harder and take my craft even more seriously. More than anything, it gave me confidence—not just in the business, but in my point of view as a designer. It showed me that there was room in the bridal world for my romantic, timeless style, and that brides were truly connecting with it. That moment was the beginning of everything that followed.

where, it’s easy to feel pressure to do what’s “in” instead of what feels right to you. Some of the most beautiful weddings I have seen are the ones that reflect the couple’s personalities, values and story—not just what’s popular at the moment.

I also wish they knew it’s okay to slow down and really be present. The day goes by so quickly, and it’s easy to get caught up in timelines and details. The moments that stay with you are the emotional ones—walking down the aisle, seeing your families together, laughing with your closest friends. Those are the things that matter most in the end. At the heart of it, I want couples to remember that their wedding is about connection and commitment, not perfection. If it feels true to who you are, then it’s already beautiful.

EL: What do you wish modern couples knew about weddings today?

SN: I wish they knew that a wedding doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful. With social media and trends every-

EL: What do you forecast for the weddings of tomorrow?

SN: I think they will feel even more personal and meaningful. Couples are already moving away from cookiecutter celebrations and focusing more on what truly reflects who they are—from the venue to the guest list to the details that matter most to them. I also see a big shift toward quality and intention. Brides want pieces that feel special and lasting, not just trendy for one season. There’s more appreciation for craftsmanship and for things that are made with care and purpose. Overall, I think weddings will become more about connection and experience—less about putting on a show, and more about celebrating love in a way that feels honest, emotional and unforgettable.

Brides want that feel and lasting, not just for one season There’s more for and for things that are made with care and purpose I think will become mor about connection and experience les about putting on a and more abou love in a way that fe s emotional and unforgettable

GALIA LAHAV

One of today’s most coveted wedding-designer names, Galia Lahav has dressed some of the best-known brides of modern times, including the likes of Beyoncé, for her 2018 vow renewal to Jay-Z, and Paris Hilton, for her 2021 wedding to Carter Reum. Lahav, who operates a global atelier in Tel Aviv, Israel, launched her line in 1986. Within the last decade, her illusion necklines and bodices and sensual details have made her brand the go-to for confident and bold brides.

EL: In your opinion, what is your main differentiator? What is the point of view that makes you and your brand so “you”?

Galia Lahav: When a bride walks into one of our stores, she’s not only choosing a gown, she’s entering a “relationship” with us, as I like to call it. From the first fitting to the last, we’re with her for months: We celebrate her, we host her, we invite her into our world. She becomes part of our Galia Lahav family.

imagined?” I wanted to bring something new. I loved the challenge of pushing boundaries. What keeps me here is that bridal will never stand still. Every bride is different, every story is different and there is always room to reinvent. I still get excited by the process, by taking something familiar and turning it into something unexpected. As long as there are brides dreaming and boundaries to push, I’m not going anywhere.

EL: Share a defining moment for your brand when you knew you were onto something special. How did it change the game for you and your business?

through events, through storytelling, the way we showcase our brides on our platforms and make them feel seen No other bridal house does it this way It’s not just about the dress, it’s about the whole the connection and the that she’s never alone in the process

That is very me. I care I’m involved in everything and I believe relaare everything Couture is not about how it’s about how it makes you from the very first moment to the very last fitting

We’ve built a real bridal community through events, through storytelling, through the way we showcase our brides on our platforms and make them feel seen. No other bridal house does it quite this way. It’s not just about the dress, it’s about the whole experience, the connection and the feeling that she’s never alone in the process. That philosophy is very me. I care deeply, I’m involved in everything and I believe relationships are everything. Couture is not only about how something looks, it’s about how it makes you feel, from the very first moment to the very last fitting.

What do you love most about the business of What you to enter the and to remain in it? are the most cal and happy day of people’s lives There is and all wrapped into one moment I never take that

EL: What do you love most about the business of weddings? What compelled you to enter the industry and to remain in it?

GL: Weddings are the most special, magical and happy day of people’s lives. There is emotion, celebration, family and hope, all wrapped into one moment. I never take that for granted.

What pulled me into bridal was the creativity. I saw an industry full of tradition and remember thinking, “Why can’t this be re-

What me into bridal was the creativity I saw an industry full of tradition and remember can’t this be re-

GL: There wasn’t one single dramatic moment—it was more of a quiet realization that kept repeating itself. I started noticing brides traveling from all over the world just to come to our atelier in Tel Aviv. They were coming because they had found something they couldn’t find anywhere else. That’s when I understood we had created more than dresses. We had created an experience, an emotion and a point of view that resonated globally.

Later, when our designs moved beyond bridal salons and began appearing on major red carpets, it confirmed that our language spoke to women everywhere, not only brides. That shift changed the scale of the business. Around the same time, social media was just beginning to emerge. We were the first bridal brand to truly embrace platforms like Instagram not as a catalog, but as a storytelling tool. Suddenly, our gowns were being shared, saved and talked about globally. Certain designs went viral before “viral” was even a word, and that visibility changed everything.

EL: What do you wish modern couples knew about weddings today?

“I never tried to tell brides who they should be,” Lahav says. “Since day one, I believed a wedding dress should reflect the woman wearing it, not tradition, not rules, not other people’s opinions. [For that reason,] I designed gowns that were confident, sensual and a little rebellious at a time when bridal was expected to be very proper. Some people said it was too much. But my brides said, ‘Finally, this feels like me.’ That honesty is what stayed consistent over the years, even as the brand grew.”

GL: Today, couples have an incredible opportunity not only to celebrate their love, but to inspire others along the way. With the reach we have now, and the rise of social media, weddings can be shared in a way that sparks creativity, connection and joy for future brides and couples around the world. At the same time, the heart of a wedding remains the same: It’s the beginning of a life together, a commitment to each other and a moment to celebrate love with the people closest to them. When couples stay ground-

ed in that meaning and share their day from a place of authenticity, the impact becomes even more beautiful—both for them and for everyone they inspire.

EL: What do you forecast for the weddings of tomorrow?

GL: I see weddings becoming even more personal and expressive. Couples will continue to move away from bridal norms and instead create weddings that truly reflect who they are, their values, their stories and the way they love. There will be more intention behind every choice, from the setting to the guest list to the gown itself. Craftsmanship and meaning will matter more than ever. I think brides will gravitate toward pieces that feel special, emotional and made just for them.

In sum, the weddings of tomorrow will be less about following rules and more about creating moments that feel timeless, authentic and just unforgettable.

KYHA SCOTT

THE COOL-GIRL ARBITER

During every New York bridal market of the past two years, the name that has continued to be raised and praised is that of Kyha. “There really are no rules anymore,” says Kyha Scott, who founded the Melbourne, Australia–based label in 2011. Today, her designs can be found in over 20 countries, including at a New York flagship store. “Weddings today do not have to look a certain way or follow a prescribed format. When you let go of expectation and focus on what feels like a reflection of you, the day becomes far more meaningful.”

EL: What is it about you, your brand and your influence that you particularly feel has been resonant with couples throughout the years? Kyha Scott: From the outset, our focus has been bridal design as a form of self-expression, rather than tradition for tradition’s sake. As a result, Kyha connects with brides seeking our signature silhouettes, craftsmanship and point of view, which sits closer to ready-towear than bridal. For me, what has been just as important as the designs themselves is the experience we create—one that is thoughtful, personal and warm, allowing each bride to feel truly seen. The combination of this and our distinctive aesthetic is what I believe has created a lasting relevance over time.

EL: In your opinion, what is your main differentiator? What is the point of view that makes you and your brand so “you”?

KS: Empowering women is at the heart of our mission and what sets us apart. It underpins every decision, from the way we design and construct each piece to the experience itself. So our pieces are not just a reflection of aesthetic intent; they are a statement of self-expression for our customers. Our creative handwriting is a further point of differentiation. An emphasis on effortlessness, restraint and craftsmanship defines the work, creating fresh designs that seem to consistently resonate with our customer.

EL: What do you love most about the business

of weddings? What compelled you to enter the industry and to remain in it?

KS: I was led into the bridal industry through my own wedding experience, which highlighted an opportunity at the time for a more positive, considered approach for brides. Bridal has allowed me to fully explore my passion for design, textiles and craftsmanship. And to contribute in a small way to such a meaningful moment in our clients’ lives remains a privilege and an ongoing source of motivation.

EL: Share a defining moment for your brand when you knew you were onto something special. How did it change the game for you and your business?

KS: After over a decade in the industry, I am grateful that there have been many meaningful moments along the way. Opening our New York flagship was a major milestone and a clear sign of the direction the business was heading in. For a brand that began in Australia, establishing a presence in New York felt especially significant. Presenting the Moon Plain collection at the Guggenheim Museum last April was another standout moment. Launching in such an iconic cultural space—and witnessing the response from our customers—was a powerful reflection of how far the brand has evolved. That was followed by the launch of Waterlines in Vietnam, which marked another meaningful chapter and felt incredibly special.

EL: What do you forecast for the weddings of tomorrow?

KS: I think we will continue to see weddings become less and less traditional and more free and expressive, whether it’s the choice of wedding dress, where a couple celebrates or how the day unfolds. Fashion will play a bigger role, with more confidence around individuality and an emphasis on craftsmanship.

Hayley Paige

Hayley Paige is back and busier than ever. The bubbly designer, whom I first met when I joined this business a decade ago, still carries the bright energy she has long brought to entire rooms. While Paige is an evolved version of herself, her purpose in bridal fashion remains the same. “Early on, I saw brides getting emotional not because they looked ‘perfect,’ but because they finally felt seen. That was a lasting moment for me,” she says. “More recently, returning to the runway under my own name after years of silence was deeply defining. It reaffirmed that creativity doesn’t disappear when it’s interrupted—it simply waits. That moment changed everything, personally and professionally. It reset my foundation to encompass authorship, creativity and designing on my own terms.”

“I’ve always loved bridal for its ability to level the room,” Paige says. “No matter who you are or where you come from, the impulse is the same: to love, to create, to mark a moment that matters.”

EL: In your opinion, what is your main differentiator? What is the point of view that makes you and your brand so “you”?

HP: I design for how it feels to get dressed, not just how it photographs. Comfort, movement and emotion aren’t afterthoughts in my work. They’re the blueprint. If you can’t sit, eat or dance comfortably, then what’s the point? I’ve always believed you can have an iconic, timeless moment and fully enjoy yourself.

At the heart of my point of view is the idea that romance can be intelligent, playful and strong all at once. A gown can be ethereal and engineered, feminine yet fearless. I’m not interested in shrinking women down or freezing them in tradition; I’m interested in celebrating their presence, their confidence and the way they move through the world.

EL: What do you love most about the business of weddings? What compelled you to enter the industry and to remain in it?

HP: What I love most is that weddings sit at the intersection of emotion and dreams. People don’t come to this space casually; they come with meaning, history, nerves, joy and hope all bundled together. There’s an honesty to this moment that you don’t get very often in fashion, and it keeps me deeply engaged and approaching my work with vulnerability.

I was drawn to bridal because it’s one of the few design categories where what you make becomes part of someone’s memory forever. A wedding dress isn’t just worn—it’s lived in love and remembered forever. I’ve stayed because weddings continue to evolve alongside culture, identity and how people define partnership and celebration. As long as love keeps changing shape, there will always be room to design for it.

EL: What is it about you, your brand and your influence that you particularly feel has been resonant with couples throughout the years?

What is it about you, your brand and your influence that you ularly feel has been resonant with throughout the a meaningful question I what’s resonated most is the behind the work the belief that is, at its core, an act of love and listening I’ve wanted brides to feel to be whatever that looks like for them. A dress should never costume you into someone else’s it should feel like a reflection of your truest self mirror, mirror while still inviting a

Hayley Paige: This is such a meaningful question. I hope what’s resonated most is the sincerity behind the work—the belief that design is, at its core, an act of love and listening. I’ve always wanted brides to feel permission to be unapologetically themselves, whatever that looks like for them. A wedding dress should never costume you into someone else’s fantasy; it should feel like a reflection of your truest self—mirror, mirror—while still inviting a sense of wonder.

And beyond I there’s a sense of woven into the brand Fashion can so often feel or inaccessible, and I’ve wanted to that script making the feel warm, human and joyful When a gown can be both and inspiring yet that’s where the lives. I t that honesty both in design and in connection is w

And beyond that, I hope there’s a sense of friendship woven into the brand. Fashion can so often feel intimidating or inaccessible, and I’ve always wanted to flip that script—making the experience feel warm, human and joyful. When a gown can be both grounding and inspiring, personal yet poetic, that’s where the magic lives. I think that honesty—both in design and in connection—is what couples have truly responded to over the years.

THEN & NOW

Dance With Us Through the Decades

Music transcends time.

From a couple’s first-dance song to guest-requested tunes, wedding music reflects life’s most sentimental moments through melody. But how does it bring guests of all ages together? At the heart of it, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, what genres you prefer or when you were born: Music can be a catalyst for creating intersectional bonds. It’s why we reminisce on the past 30 years of wedding music to see how much has changed, as well as what future celebrations might entail.

“Music can unite people across cultures and generations, but it can also divide if it isn’t approached thoughtfully,” explains Malike Adigun, founder and CEO of DJ collective Curate Entertainment, based in Naples, Florida, who has spent over a decade in the wedding industry. “I’ve learned that the best DJs blend cultures the way great chefs blend flavors. By remixing and reediting songs and layering rhythms and styles, they can create moments where everyone feels represented.”

Looking back at his decades of wedding experience at his eponymous entertainment company in Dallas, DJ Riz recalls that when he first started out in the ’90s, couples didn’t make lists of songs they didn’t want to hear. “Do-not-play lists weren’t really a thing yet,” he says. “People would expect us to know what would work and what wouldn’t. They would just request no explicit versions, or tell us if they didn’t like a genre.”

As for what couples do want to hear, Seth Casana—a professional DJ and entertainment consultant in Fredericksburg, Virginia—for the past decade, says short social media videos are the primary way they’re discovering music and getting inspiration for their wed-

ding playlists nowadays. “I’ve noticed what I call the ‘TikTok musical aesthetic,’ where dance requests are coming specifically from the audio of popular shortform video content,” he says. “I expect this phenomenon to only become more common in years to come.”

Still, Casana doesn’t think we’re doomed to have algorithms solely determining what we hear on the dance floor. Adigun agrees: “Trends come and go, but high-quality music always lasts. Social media may bring songs back into rotation—but only music with real substance stands the test of time,” he says. “Also, as remix culture continues to grow, older songs will keep being refreshed in new ways, allowing each generation to rediscover them through a modern lens.”

Now what exactly could wedding music sound like beyond 2026? DJ Riz predicts three types of potential experiences: the formal dance floor, with family and friends mixed together; a club-vibe dance floor that’s less formal and mostly for the couple’s friends; and finally, a lounge dance floor with vibe music for everyone. This third option won’t be a “full-blown dance party,” he notes—instead, it’ll be for couples who like music but don’t like to dance themselves.

As you can see, there are numerous ways a couple’s music selection can influence the energy at the reception. So before you and your partner jump into making your playlist, take some time to consider what songs will evoke a sense of community you and your guests won’t forget, and also how you want your guests to feel after they leave the dance floor.

The DanceWorthy Evolution of WeddingPlaylists

Need inspiration before you meet with your DJ or band? Check out our editorand-expert-curated lists of hit songs at weddings dating back to 1996, and then take a look at what we forecast will be on couples’ lists this year.

2000

By Your Side Sade

Bye Bye Bye *NSYNC

All the Small Things Blink-182

The Way You Love Me Faith Hill

I Wanna Be With You Mandy Moore

1996

1. Because You Loved Me Céline Dion

2. Change the World Eric Clapton

3. You’re Makin’ Me High Toni Braxton

4. To Be Loved by You Wynonna Judd

5. Always Be My Baby Mariah Carey

In 2009, must-play songs leaned heavily into early-2000s party and crunk energy. These tunes were popular because they energized the dance floor and appealed to multiple generations,” says Adigun.

2009

1. Yeah! Usher feat. Lil Jon and Ludacris

2. SexyBack Justin Timberlake feat. Timbaland

3. Boogie Shoes KC and the Sunshine Band

4. I Gotta Feeling Black Eyed Peas

5. Just Dance Lady Gaga ft. Colby O’Donis

Most couples will want mainstream Latin tracks and artists on their playlists, like Bad Bunny—especially after the Super Bowl—along with classic popular songs like ‘Yeah!’ by Usher,” says DJ Riz.

1. DanzaKuduro

Don Omar feat. Lucenzo

2. TakiTaki

DJ Snake feat.

DanzaKudu fe fea

Cardi B, Selena Gomez and Ozuna

Cardi Sele O

3. Levitating

Dua Lipa

4. Low

Flo Rida feat. T-Pain

5. LastLast Burna Boy

Do-Not-Play Songs From the Past 30 Years

Want to know what tunes other to-be-weds have largely avoided? There’s a list for that too.

1. 2 Become 1 Spice Girls

2. Let’s Get Married Jagged Edge

3. Cha Cha Slide DJ Casper

4. How You Remind Me Nickelback

5. We Belong Together Mariah Carey

All these songs are from the mid-to-late 2010s; are positive, upbeat tracks; and had solid radio popularity upon release. So it makes sense that couples wanted to dance to them at the time,” says Casana.

6. Bad Romance Lady Gaga

7. Raise Your Glass P!NK

8. Rude MAGIC!

9. Uptown Funk

Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars

10. Old Town Road

Lil Nas X feat. Billy Ray Cyrus

11. WAP

Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion

12. As It Was Harry Styles

From This

HOW WEDDINGS MAY EVOLVE IN THE NEXT 30 YEARS AND ONWARD.

By Sarah Hanlon

You know how the saying goes: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Weddings are steeped in tradition, but we’ve also seen immense change over the last three decades. The next 30 years promise even more: more innovation, more intention, more creativity. Yet even as technology evolves, traditions change and trends fluctuate, the driving force behind the pomp and circumstance—love—will always endure. Here, we asked industry experts to explore what weddings of the future may bring, as well as what will likely never change.

Every event will depict a story.

In years past, many couples likely started their wedding planning by identifying a theme, like “classic,” “glam,” or “rustic boho.” Eventually, these themes evolved into aesthetics, and in this decade aesthetics have turned into vibes. Looking ahead, experts say the next wave of event production won’t be driven by an arbitrary word or phrase at all, but rather by each couple’s unique story.

“If you try to force a narrative on something, it’s not authentic,” says planner Jamie Simon. “We spend time with our couples to understand what they’re about. That sets the influence, and that’s what makes events unique.” During an era when exposure to ideas and inspiration is endless, the key to originality, he says, lies in each couple’s individuality: “When people say, ‘I want to do something that no one’s ever done before,’ we can do that, because your story is yours.”

The beauty of storytelling through event production is that there are no guardrails or hard rules to follow. A wedding’s story can begin with anecdotes from the couple’s romance, memories from their first date, inspiration from their favorite movie or influences from their culture. Simon cites a client who had a lifelong adoration of Alice in Wonderland.

To honor that, performers portraying eight versions of “Alice” welcomed guests to the reception, which also had a menu inspired by the childhood fairy tale. Similarly, Laura Held planned a wedding for a Phantom of the Opera enthusiast complete with gothic candelabras, decor in hues of red and burgundy, and opaque white drapes that served as the backdrop for a projection of the bride’s grandparents’ wedding video on Super 8 film. These genres of highly stylized weddings are projected to become the norm, not the exception, in coming years.

Floral designer Jennifer Bernal says modern couples will have more freedom when it comes to choosing how to tell their story. “Thirty years ago, weddings were often guided by tradition, expectation and a relatively narrow definition of what was considered ‘classic,’”sheexplains.“Today’s couples are navigating a very different cultural reality: one shaped by diversity, global influence, social awareness and a desire to feel seen. Storytelling is not just trending, it’s becoming the foundation of modern wedding design. Less interested in replication than in reflection, couples want their wedding environment to tell a story about who they are, where they come from and what they value.”

When people say, ‘I want to do something that no one’s ever done before,’ we can do that, because your story is yours.”

Meet the Experts

Melissa Andre is the founder of Melissa Andre Design Co., a celebrity-and-influencertrusted event-planning company based in New York, Miami, Los Angeles and London. Her clientele includes Victoria Beckham and Drake.

Jennifer Bernal is the founder of House of Bernal, a maximalist floral-design company in New York’s Hudson Valley. She was named one of The Knot Ones to Watch honorees in 2025.

Laura Held is the owner of Ida Rose Events, a luxury event-planning and design company based in Washington, DC. She has worked in event coordination and production since 2009. She planned the viral wedding of influencer Jaz Smith and Kevin Callari.

Jordan Jeanty is the founder of Jordan Jeanty Studios, a boutique wedding film studio based in Dallas. He was named one of The Knot Ones to Watch honorees in 2023.

Jamie Simon is the director and head of events for Banana Split, a Londonbased luxury event-planning company that opened in 1976. Its past clients include Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge.

Experiential weddings will immerse guests through atmosphere.

“

While “personalization” has been a common wedding buzzword in recent years, the experts report that “immersion” is poised to take its place. “When clients reach out to us now, their inquiries are so different than they were even two years ago,” says Held. “We see the words ‘guest experience,’ ‘immersive’ and ‘fun.’ There’s a shift in what people are looking for.”

But they warn there’s a vast difference between an immersive wedding designed solely for shock factor and one created through a savvy-storytelling lens. “An event isn’t immersive just because someone is spinning from the ceiling,” says Simon. “That’s just great cabaret entertainment.” Adds Held: “There’s a need to be entertained. But you can’t entertain just to entertain. It has to have purpose and meaning behind it, or else it can feel inauthentic. Authenticity is going to be more important to weddings as the years go by.”

Planner Melissa Andre says that throughout her nearly two-decade tenure in the events business, this shift toward curating a mood rooted in hospitality has been steadily on the rise. “The industry has moved from formulaic, tradition-heavy formats to highly personalized experiences driven by atmosphere and intention,” she says.

To achieve authentic celebrations, the very first conversations couples have with their vendors pave the way. “Innovation starts early. We approach weddings much more like creative productions than one-day events,” says Bernal. “That means integrating concept development, mood narratives, spatial planning and custom fabrication, rather than relying on preset decor formulas.”

And she predicts clients will continue to gravitate toward decor that exudes personality and meaning: “I’m seeing a strong shift to immersive environments, like floral installations that wrap guests in the experience, rather than decorating isolated moments. There’s also a move toward intentional maximalism: bold scale, layered textures, sculptural florals and color stories that feel expressive rather than restrained.”

Remember, though, that immersive events don’t necessarily require lavish decorations or an otherworldly venue. In fact, Held says, immersion has nothing to do with budget; instead it lies in the intention that drives decisions. “It requires a shift in focus on what the priorities are,” she says. “Think about what kind of conversation you want to start with your choices.”

There’s a need to be entertained. But you can’t entertain just to entertain. It has to have purpose and meaning behind it, or else it can feel inauthentic. Authenticity is going to be more important to weddings as the years go by.”

“

Empathy is our greatest strength when it comes to doing this job. AI, technology and social media are helpful, but none of it replaces the value [vendors] provide.”

Technology will enhance collaboration and artistry.

We can’t talk about weddings of the future without acknowledging the impact of technology. Widespread access to the internet and social media reshaped wedding planning in the 2000s, giving couples endless access to inspiration across countless mediums. Per Andre, the landscape we’re evolving toward now will allow for even more innovation and creativity. “Weddings are being informed by a global visual language, with couples pulling references from travel, fashion and design from all over the world, accessed through their social feeds rather than just the

weddings they’ve attended,” she says.

Couples are also using technology to improve how they work with their vendors. According to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, roughly 36 percent of engaged couples were using AI for wedding planning at the end of last year—a 225 percent increase in usage compared to 2023. Now, with more comprehensive planning tools and resources at their disposal, such as The Knot’s recent integration into ChatGPT, couples can begin the process with a more educated background and time saved than was often the case in the past.

“Younger generations are coming to us

with more information right off the bat,” Held explains. “Before we even have a conversation, we know exactly what they want, or can identify weak points and how we can support them.”

Andre suggests that further technological advancements may simplify the minute details of wedding planning, guest care and logistics even more. Bernal concurs, pointing to the potential for new lighting capabilities, soundscapes, interactive storytelling elements and digital keepsakes that will “extend the experience beyond the event.”

All that said, the pros agree that tech will never replace the humanity that’s integral to wedding planning. “Empathy is our greatest strength when it comes to doing this job,” says Held. “AI, technology and social media are helpful, but none of it replaces the value [vendors] provide.”

Long-form content will document the complete wedding journey.

Your parents may have had a hardcover wedding photo album or a VHS tape of their wedding day, demonstrating that the desire for content has always been there. It’s just that the medium has changed. Within the last few years, wedding content creators have been among the fastest-growing vendor categories, serving as an asset to complement photographers and videographers. (Read more about content creators and other conciergestyle pros on page 84.) Apps like Instagram and TikTok have likewise fueled an increase in demand for short-form video material. In addition to digital galleries of wedding images, couples want movie trailers, iPhone footage and trend-worthy clips that can be turned into a digital scrapbook—either to post online or simply to savor in a camera roll.

But while this short, easily digestible style defines the current decade, videographer Jordan Jeanty foresees a preference for feature-length content that captures the entirety of a couple’s wedding journey, from the hallmark moments to the smaller candid memories. “I see a move toward longer-format films that blend cinematic storytelling with real, unscripted moments,” he says. “While social media has trained many of us to move quickly, younger generations are growing up consuming long-form streaming content.”

Like the other experts, he also envisions a demand for wedding assets that feel both immersive and authentic: “Couples will want films that move fluidly between polished, cinematic moments and quieter, human ones where you feel like you’re in the room.” Many, including Bernal and Andre, also predict that weddings of the future will become longer, multiday affairs. As a result, Jeanty says, the content length will have to match. “The appetite for films that reflect the full scope of the experience has been quietly developing for years, and its moment may be arriving sooner than we think.”

Nostalgia will continually cycle back into style.

There’s no denying that many weddings to come will be groundbreaking feats of design and technology. But in an era when trend cycles move faster than ever, some couples may simply crave tradition. As we’ve seen with trends throughout the years, what’s old always has the power to become new again. Vintage details that defined previous decades—like film photography and Lambeth wedding cakes—reemerged in the wedding zeitgeist in the 2020s, proving that nostalgia can sometimes outshine modernity. “You don’t always need to reinvent the wheel,” Simon says. “Some things are beautiful just because they are.”

And while weddings of the future may look visually different from those of the past—never-before-seen experiences, weeklong itineraries driven by hospitality, decorative achievements that would never have even been possible in the 1990s—the core meaning will never waver. “Trends come and go, but intention lasts,” says Bernal. “When couples make choices rooted in who they are, rather than what they think a wedding should look like, the result is always

“ You don’t always need to reinvent the wheel. Some things are beautiful just because they are.”

more powerful, more memorable and more emotionally resonant.”

So couples will embrace traditions that resonate while revamping (or completely removing) those that don’t. And this sense of empowerment will continue to make nuptials more meaningful than ever before.

“Anything done purely out of obligation will continue to fall away,” says Andre. “Couples are increasingly thoughtful about what feels authentic to them, and that discernment is reshaping weddings into experiences that feel intentional rather than performative.”

After all, a wedding isn’t about the spectacle. Colors and decorations and performers and hors d’oeuvres may enhance the experience, but they don’t take precedence over the most important detail: celebrating the beginning of a marriage with the people who matter most.

“The core of all of this is bringing your nearest and dearest together in the same space to enjoy something together,” says Simon.

The Future’s Bright

WHILE WE CAN’T FORETELL EXACTLY WHAT LIES AHEAD, HERE’S A LOOK AT WHAT COULD BE IN STORE FOR THE NEXT THREE DECADES OF NUPTIALS.

FOR EVEN MORE PREDICTIONS, FLIP TO PAGE 82.

“Weddings will feel closer to private club members’ experiences or curated retreats than traditional events.” —Andre

“Designing immersive experiences for your personality will take the cake.” —Held

“Immersive wedding films will blend cinematic storytelling with real, unscripted moments.”

—Jeanty

“Perhaps we’ll have robot waiters. When you ask for your Vesper martini, it’ll be there in 30 seconds.”

—Simon

TIMELESS TIPS

Everlasting Advice

WEDDING CULTURE EVOLVES, BUT YOUR LOVE IS ETERNAL—AND SO ARE THESE 30 TIMELESS TIPS FROM THE KNOT EDITORS.

By Cathryn Haight

Illustrations by Jordan Kay

Lovebirds,

The question of what’s considered ageless looms large in the wedding world, and it’s one we, as editors, contend with daily. Our hot take: A truly “timeless” wedding doesn’t exist—and that’s a beautiful thing.

First off, trends are cyclical, so everything will come back around at some point, à la the current calla-lily renaissance. Second, no one wants to return to an era before registry cash funds (when there was still pearl-clutching around giving money as a wedding gift). And lastly, we all love looking back on weddings that are snapshots of the eras in which they happened; that doesn’t make them any less special.

What’s actually timeless, however, is handling your wedding with grace, consideration and kindness, in a way that protects the sanctity of your sanity. That’s where these tips are rooted. We’re not talking about stuffy “fork on the left” etiquette. These are approachable rules to live by that come straight from our professional and personal experiences, and are sure to apply eternally.

Take a look, and take them to heart. Rest assured, this advice will still hold up when Gen Alpha revives the Mason jar in 2040. (Stay tuned.)

Xo, The Knot Editors

1

Don’t rush your engagement. Enjoy it. Tell anyone asking if you’ve set a date yet to relax.

2

Trust in your vendors. Wedding pros know how to throw a party better than anyone, so sit back and soak up their expertise.

3

Don’t procrastinate on writing your vows. If you’re likely to wait until the last minute to break out a pen and paper (or your Notes app), ditch the idea and stick to the standard “in sickness and in health” stuff: It covers it all, and your guests will still cry happy tears.

4

Own your vibe. If you love a big bash, embrace it. If you’re keeping it intimate, feel confident in that. Host your wedding in whatever way feels right.

5

Define your non-negotiables. Put your money where it’ll mean the most—so book that dream photographer you’ve been following for years.

6

Insist on a well-curated guest list. If you’re worried someone will be gossiping about you in the church pews, they don’t deserve to be at your wedding. Period.

7

Make a realistic registry. Add gifts at every price point—not just your big, fancy espresso machine. (More on page 72.)

8

Be grateful for your wedding party. They’re thrilled to celebrate and support you, but please don’t torpedo their entire year of PTO for your bach trip and beyond if they aren’t on board. An anonymous Google Form does wonders to align everyone.

9

Hire a wedding planner. It’s the best money you’ll spend.

10

Build extra time into your wedding day run-of-show. Those additional minutes to eat a snack or apply lipstick just one more time before the aisle are essential.

11

Let nos roll off your shoulders. Whether they’re from a vendor or a prospective guest, or come in situations where you have to say no to something or someone, they’re par for the course. Breathe through it.

12

Mind the weather.

Don’t let your guests fry in the sun or soak in the rain—respect the limitations of your wedding season and plan accordingly.

13

Be mindful of your wedding party as individuals. Folks have different body types, skin tones and hair textures. Take them all into account when choosing attire and booking beauty services.

14

Stay grounded in your location choice. You don’t need to get married in Italy just because it’s all over your feed. Pick a place that’s meaningful and feel good about it.

15

Don’t make every conversation about wedding planning. Give yourselves time and space to connect and relax throughout the process. Not every chat needs to be “productive.”

16

Take social media with a grain of salt. Go for a walk, enjoy a nap and remember it’s a highlight reel. (And that some folks get wedding stuff sponsored, so their real budgets can stretch a lot further.)

17

Make sure everyone can see you during the ceremony. Might we recommend an elevated surface?

18

Likewise, ensure everyone can hear you during the ceremony. A sound check ahead of the “we are gathered here today” will go a long way.

19

Carve out time for just the two of you on the wedding day. A moment (or two, or more) alone, whether it’s a walk with coffee in the morning or a postceremony snack session, will help you soak everything in.

20 And also carve out some time for just yourself on the wedding day. Listen to a guided meditation, or lie on the floor with a sheet mask and contemplate life.

21 Attend part of your cocktail hour. You paid good money for that oyster bar, and we’ll be damned if you don’t get to enjoy it. Your photographer can squeeze in portraits beforehand.

24 Actually spend a moment with everyone at the reception. Show your gratitude. Greet your guests. Yes, try to talk to them all. They love you, they’re happy for you, they want to give you a hug.

27 Thank your vendors. And tip where appropriate.

28 Keep the good vibes going. Bring the same positive energy your loved ones give you to their respective celebrations and milestones (be they weddings, work promotions, new pets, first homes or otherwise), even if they’re happening right in the thick of your planning process.

29 Send thank-you notes to your guests. Handwritten, personalized and mailed in a timely manner.

22 Keep guests (and yourselves) hydrated. Water and non-alc refreshments at all times; reserve boozy options for appropriate ones.

23 Feed your wedding party. That means breakfast, lunch and a postceremony snack for photo fuel (chicken tenders and fries recommended).

25 Don’t smash cake in your partner’s face without prior permission. Seriously, don’t.

26 Everyone is having fun—so stop worrying. Just because someone takes a quick break from the dance floor doesn’t mean their night is going terribly.

30 Remember the reason you’re getting married. You both love each other more than anything and everything, so you’re throwing a party. That’s all there is to it.

Trends come and go, but certain items never lose their charm. We compiled 30 wedding gifts that couples won’t regret putting on their wish list.

The Legacy

By Emily Rumsey

by Jens Mortensen

Creating a wedding registry is one of the joys of preparing for married life. You’ll select pieces that could shape your daily routines, from the coffee you share each morning to the serveware that anchors celebrations. But with nearly endless options, many wonder what’s worth the investment. A smart registry balances everyday practicality with long-term value, which is why these staples were chosen for their quality, function and timeless appeal.

1. No learning curve here. This upgraded and fully automatic espresso machine grinds, doses and brews at the press of a button. $2,000, KitchenAid.com

2. Made from heavygauge stainless steel with a warp-resistant bonded base, this stovetop kettle boils water quickly and efficiently. $120, All-Clad.com

3. This coffee maker uses precise, consistent temperature control and steady water flow to extract balanced, nuanced flavor every time. $400, FellowProducts.com

4. A heavy-duty induction motor and stainless steel blade ensure this quality food processor will function and perform for decades. $320, Cuisinart.com

5. Fine bone china from heritage manufacturer Wedgwood is nonporous, chip-resistant and backed by centuries of craftsmanship. You can’t go wrong with this neoclassical dinnerware design. $310 for 5-piece set, Wedgwood.com

6. Equal parts decorative accent and cherished keepsake, Baccarat’s Lucky Butterfly is a breathtaking collector’s item. $290, Baccarat.com

7. This 18/10 stainless steel flatware with hammered details offers everyday versatility and a refined tabletop presence. $130 for 20-piece set, Mikasa.com

8. Woven in Italy from 100 percent linen, the tablecloth and napkins are crisp, elegant and durable. Tablecloth from $349, napkins from $147 for 4, Sferra.com

How to Care for Your New Gifts

Proper maintenance ensures your registry picks become lifelong heirlooms.

CAST IRON: Clean with warm water and a gentle scrub, then dry thoroughly. Buff with neutral oil to maintain the nonstick seasoning.

18/10 STAINLESS STEEL:

High nickel content makes it dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing preserves its luster. Just avoid abrasives, and use a baking-soda-and-vinegar paste for stubborn spots.

WOOD: To retain wood’s integrity, rinse with warm water, dry immediately and regularly condition with food-safe mineral oil.

COPPER: Since it’s prone to scratches, hand-wash only with mild soap and dry immediately. Store pieces individually wrapped, and polish as soon as tarnish appears.

CRYSTAL: Hand-wash and dry to avoid water spots. Store upright to prevent rim chips and keep the bowl free of odors.

PORCELAIN: Handwash—even if labeled dishwasher-safe—so metallic or intricate details don’t fade. Use soft liners between plates when storing to prevent chips.

9. Designed with world-champion mixologist Charles Joly, this two-piece heavy-gauge stainless steel shaker has a reliable seal that won’t leak. $140, Fortessa.com

10. Effortless precision without the need for a jigger: These ergonomically made rocks glasses feature interior markings for a precise 2-ounce pour. $49 for 2, Riedel.com

11. Did you know that end-grain cutting boards are self-healing? And the 3-inch thickness means this one can be professionally refinished multiple times. $212, JohnBoos.com

12. Forged from Japanese steel with a full-tang handle, this 8-inch chef’s knife is virtually indestructible. Plus, its hand-hammered tsuchime texture makes food slide right off the blade. $275, Shun.Kaiusa.com

13. Sumptuously soft and lightweight, this cashmere throw wraps you in luxury. Crafted from long, ultra-fine fibers, its high-density weave has a smooth, pill-resistant finish that will maintain its structure for decades. $1,750, Frette.com

14. Preserve your wedding bouquet or boutonnière as custom art for a beautiful and lasting keepsake. From $295, Pressed Floral.com

15. The iconic diamond and wedge cuts make this crystal vase the perfect vessel for floral anniversary gifts. $325, Waterford.com

16. Handcrafted with 24k gold plating and yellow Swarovski crystals, this picture frame brings a brilliant shine to any mantel. From $350, L-Objet.com

17. A die-cast metal body and high-strength gears let this stand mixer handle the heaviest dough. Attachments can turn it into a pasta maker, ice-cream churner, food slicer and more. $500, KitchenAid.com

18. Conveniently dishwasher-safe, this scalloped-edge white ceramic cake stand will be the centerpiece of many celebrations to come. $78, Lenox.com

19. Each hand-carved from a single piece of maple for durability, these spoons can do everything from stirring and scraping to scooping and serving. $84, EarlywoodDesigns.com

20. Brilliant clarity and satisfying weight make the Mille Nuits crystal flutes a celebratory must-have. $750 for 2, Baccarat.com

21. From one of France’s oldest and most prestigious crystal manufacturers, this ice bucket has substantial density for chilling bubbly. $1,800, Saint-Louis.com

In a registry thoughtfully crafted without regrets, don’t overlook the value of an experience. A honeymoon fund eases the planning of your first romantic escape and ensures memories you’ll recount fondly for the rest of your life. Any amount, The Knot Registry Store, TheKnot.com

22. Engineered to enhance red wine, Tritan crystal glasses will elevate everything from sparkling water to Aperol spritzes. $82.50 for 6, Schott Zwiesel, Nordstrom.com • 23. Say goodbye to burnt stovetop rice, thanks to a multifunctional rice cooker that uses induction technology to ensure even heat distribution. $560, CuckooAmerica.com • 24. With a natural nonstick surface that actually improves with every use, a cast-iron skillet is exceptional for searing, frying and even baking. A Dutch oven, meanwhile, is suitable for slow-cooked stews, weeknight pasta dinners and much more. $220 and $300, Smithey.com • 25. Built for adventure, the Yeti Tundra Haul features nearly indestructible walls, sturdy wheels and commercial-level insulation. $450, Yeti.com • 26. Miele’s canister vacuums are rigorously tested to withstand 20 years of use. $1,249, MieleUSA.com • 27. A sauté pan’s wide cooking surface and high sides are ideal for multistep dinners, from searing to deglazing; a copper-core sauce pot provides the uniform heat needed for soups and sauces. $350 and $300, All-Clad.com • 28. Borosilicate glass resists odors, stains and extreme temperature shifts, making this dish essential for baking and long-term freezer storage. From $23, Oxo.com • 29. Where plastic may crack and metal may dent, ballistic nylon thrives. This heavy-duty expandable spinner is made to endure the toughest travel conditions. $729, Briggs-Riley.com • 30. Not all registry items have to be practical. A personalized Scrabble board serves up a lifetime of enjoyable quality time together. From $229, MarkandGraham.com

Into Ou

Gaze

r C

ry

stal B al l P r edicting the F u t ure of Weddin g s

By Chapelle Johnson

Do you ever wonder what weddings down the road will look like? As editors who live, breathe and digest the latest trends, well, we have. We envision to-be-weds viewing simulations of their weddings played out in virtual reality, complete with avatars of themselves and guests. We imagine androids assisting with Broadway-esque costume changes on the dance floor. The possibilities are endless—and other industry experts agree. We asked a wedding planner and a psychic to foretell what weddings will look like 30, 50 or even 100 years from now. We even included our own exciting projections. So when these predictions come to fruition, remember, you heard them here first.

Sound will become a design tool. Music tempo, volume and bass levels will directly influence color, motion and light throughout the space. As the room gets louder, environments will become bolder and more saturated.

—Alex Moreau, lead wedding planner at XO Moreau

Want your favorite singer or actor at your afterparty? AI holograms of celebrities will be the cutting-edge entertainment at weddings.

—Sarah Hanlon, Editor

Expect to see pet plus-ones on invitations and as guests of honor at weddings.

—Esther Lee, Editorial Director

Drone light shows at weddings, displaying a dynamic depiction of the couple’s love story, will become more common than fireworks.

—Emily Rumsey, Associate Editor

A new vendor category will emerge: the “digital ancestral liaison.” AI companies will create avatars of forebears who can give toasts, share blessings or tell stories.

—Therèsa Fernand, psychic

Reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland, couples will have fragrant, true-to-life flower centerpieces that’ll double as edible desserts on each reception table, whispering, “Eat me.”

—Chapelle Johnson, Associate Editor

Couples will deploy robot waitstaff to enhance service needs. —Rumsey

“I love you to the moon and back”—literally. The first wedding on the moon will be a revelation for both civilian space travel and otherworldly venue trends. —Hanlon

Voice notes, heartbeats, dance-floor movement and raw video moments will be captured and compiled into a digital archive of the wedding. —Moreau

Love has a frequency. I see venues offering packages where the couple’s first kiss triggers a light-and-sound experience calibrated to their brain chemistry. —Fernand

Smart venues will anticipate guests’ comfort levels, knowing when to change the temperature, lower the music volume and intuitively adjust lighting. It’ll be like a Mega Alexa. —Lee

Discreet ambient microphones will capture small moments in the room: clinking glasses, laughter, snippets of toasts. Those sounds will be woven directly into the music set. —Moreau

AI-assisted registries will have the ability to take a visual scan of a couple’s home and recognize what items they need. —Lee

Anniversary celebrations will evolve into renewal rituals where couples actively recommit. They’ll treat their marriage like a living altar that needs tending. —Fernand

Couples will feed memories and emotions into AI systems that generate real-time scenic environments inspired by their love story. They’ll turn the event into a cinema. —Moreau

Proposals will become miniature weddings of their own. I see couples hiring more vendors to turn this moment into a full-scale event, complete with catering, entertainment and a theme. —Hanlon

Emerging technology will scan couples’ phone contacts to optimize the best guest list based on frequency of communication.

—Cathryn Haight, Editor

You Rang?

Meet the vendors

Meet the concierge vendors who are enhancing the weddings of today and tomorrow.

By Sarah Hanlon

The wedding professionals of the future are already here, and their influence on the way couples plan is growing. As nuptials become ever more immersive, individualized events that prioritize hospitality, bespoke expertise becomes increasingly vital. Enter concierge vendors, who raise the bar by providing high-touch, high-impact support—and whose services aren’t one-size-fits-all. Get to know a few of these rising stars who are pioneering the trend, and learn how they’re revolutionizing the planning process from start to finish.

CONTENT CREATORS

WEATHER CONSULTANTS

They say rain on your wedding day is good luck, but that doesn’t mean it’s welcome. While online global event weather services can’t exactly control the skies, they can track impeding patterns and collaborate with planners and venue staff to coordinate alternate plans in the event of inclement conditions.

Driven by his lifelong passion for hospitality, Ironic Reports founder and CEO Andrew Leavitt pivoted his career in concert production to full-time event weather services after attending a friend’s wedding in 2019. A passing storm forced the couple to move the ceremony indoors, but after checking a trusted meteorology app, Leavitt was convinced it could stay outside if they just waited 30 minutes. Alas, while things proceeded inside, the sun returned and the clouds cleared, as he’d predicted. “I thought, ‘There’s an idea here,’” he recalls.

This is one of the fastest-growing vendor categories, but did you know their services can extend the itself? as a to and content creators who include pros like Plan With Laur in NYC and In the Moment in DC capture iPhone of inbetween moments that help paint a fuller portrait of your era Caroline the New founder of Carleton Socials and one of The Knot 2025 Ones to Watch credits her own with her into the industry “I found returning most often to the candid and videos from the

This is one of the fastest-growing vendor categories, but did you know their services can extend beyond the wedding day itself? Acting as a supplement to photographers and videographers, wedding content creators—who include pros like Plan With Laur in NYC and In the Moment in Washington, DC—capture iPhone footage of small, inbetween moments that help paint a fuller portrait of your wedding era. Caroline Vonachen, the New England–based founder of Carleton Socials and one of The Knot 2025 Ones to Watch honorees, credits her own nuptials with having inspired her foray into the industry. “I found myself returning most often to the candid photos and videos from the surrounding moments—the quieter, less formal events that held just as much meaning as the wedding day,” she says. “It made me realize how important it is to document the entire season of a wedding, not just the ceremony and reception.”

Today, some creators offer custom packages that document a series of events. “From engagement parties and showers to rehearsal dinners and welcome events, there are so many meaningful moments that deserve to be remembered,” Vonachen says. “Bringing on a content creator allows couples to fully be present while knowing those moments are being thoughtfully captured.”

She also notes that wedding content creators aren’t just for influencers or couples who want to post trends on the internet. Instead, Vonachen’s clients are just people who value tangible memories. “We’ve been documenting our everyday lives on our phones for years, so it makes sense that couples now want that same level of documentation during one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives,” she says. “Traditional photography and videography are still important, but documentary-style content allows the story to feel more complete, more personal and more reflective of how we actually remember moments in real life.” So get the photographer, a videographer—and consider a creator too. You won’t regret these hires.

The following year, Leavitt teamed up with meteorologists and weather specialists to launch a global event meteorology service for the wedding industry. In the weeks preceding a client’s event, his team follows the approaching weather patterns for the venue’s location. Then they work with the planning team to prepare and suggest alternatives as needed, or to recommend day-of itinerary shifts. “I say that we’re a hospitality company that focuses on meteorology, not a meteorology company that is playing in a world of hospitality,” Leavitt says.

Such consultants, also including businesses like STM Weather and WeatherPlanner, can’t make bad weather vanish, but they do provide planners and couples with peace of mind from the knowledge that there’s always a backup strategy—and that’s invaluable.

PET ATTENDANTS

For some proud pet parents, having their beloved fur baby at their wedding sounds like a dream. Such was thecase for F1 driver Charles Leclerc and his wife Alexandra Saint Mleux, whose dachshund Leo went viral for attending their February 2026 wedding. But the need to juggle venue regulations, walk schedules and feeding times can quickly make that reverie far more complicated than anticipated. Enter wedding pet sitters. While this concierge service isn’t a new phenomenon, it is gaining traction among to-be-weds, as evidenced by the success of national companies like Doggy Social and FairyTail Pet Care, which was featured on Shark Tank in 2023.

Veronica Silghigian, founder of Pawfect for You, got the idea to launch her East Coast–based business after having to leave behind her own dog when she went to weddings. The company assists clients by handling beloved companions during the ceremony, helping with photos and providing care duties—but the bulk of its services begin before the day even arrives. “It’s easy to say you want your

WEDDING BRAND CURATORS

In the 1990s, a wedding stationery suite typically included one piece of paper with details listed in formal, simple script. It’s a stark difference from today’s trends, which often feature details like signature crests, custom designs and bespoke patterns. Brooklyn, New York, stationer Vidhi Dattani, one of The Knot 2024 Ones to Watch honorees, has noted an increased demand for wedding branding: the art of creating a distinct visual identity that honors the couple’s story.

“When stationery, signage and day-of details speak the same visual language, the entire celebration feels considered and seamless,” she says. “Thirty years ago, weddings followed a traditional and standardized format,

leaving little room for this level of personalization. Today, couples care deeply about branding, because it allows them to move beyond convention and create something that feels truly their own.”

While this can include custom designs on tangible wedding elements like invitations, signs and place settings, it can also manifest as a simpler, nuanced method for making design decisions. Dattani and similar vendors, like TPD Design House and Few & Fahr in Austin, Texas, work with clients to curate an aesthetic identity. “Rather than being about scale or spectacle, branding is evolving into a framework that helps couples make cohesive design decisions, whether boldly or quietly,” Dattani explains.

pet to be part of it all, but we also have to be practical,” she explains. “Venue rules, timelines and the animal’s temperament all have to be factored in. We create a high-level plan, and as the couple moves through their planning process, we refine it while learning more about their pet.”

Some couples might be inclined to assign such duties to a trusted guest, but Silghigian cautions against it. “At some point, the pet typically has to leave the venue, which means whoever is caring for it has to step away and miss part of the celebration,” she explains. “Relying on someone they want fully present at the celebration isn’t realistic.”

Today, Silghigian says, celebrating with a pet isn’t simply a trend—it’s becoming the norm. “Many couples establish their lives well before the wedding day, and that often includes building a life with their pet,” she says. “As weddings continue to evolve into more personal, experience-driven celebrations, it makes sense that couples want to include all the ones they love most.”

“Even something as simple as a consistent typeface across invitations and day-of signage can create a sense of polish and cohesion.”

To deliver this concierge service, Dattani meets with clients for an in-depth consultation: “That initial conversation informs every design decision, from motifs and color palettes to paper selection, textures and typography.” Then she embarks on rounds of sketches and feedback before landing on a final design. “Wedding branding is personalization elevated,” she says. “It creates a visual language that carries through stationery, photography, videography, illustration and day-of design. These elements work together to tell a story where every touchpoint feels intentional, memorable and reflective of the couple.”

BACH-PARTY SPECIALISTS

You’ve probably heard of bachelorette-party planners, and you’ve definitely seen their work on Instagram. But as demand for bigger and bolder events rises, so does the need for planning help that goes beyond rental decoration and activity suggestions. Such was the inspiration behind GNO Getaways, a bacheloretteexperience company based in Nevada and Tennessee founded by Bri Steck.

“As bachelorette trips have become longer, more experiential and more curated—often influenced by social media and oncein-a-lifetime expectations— bridesmaids increasingly need professional support to make everything run smoothly,” she explains. “Our role is to ensure the trip feels effortless for everyone

MULTI-TAINERS

involved. Beyond providing access and expertise, we help eliminate stress by managing reservations, transportation flow and group coordination while keeping the weekend on budget and elevated.”

With hospitality and tourism connections in hot spots like Las Vegas and Nashville, Tennessee, GNO Getaways unlocks normally inaccessible experiences for bridal parties—think club table upgrades, access to sold-out shows and waived or reduced fees at bars. “Our partners view us as an extension of

So, you want a saxophone player who lights up your dance floor with iconic choreography? A bartender who puts on a show and designs a mean cocktail? A server who directs guests to their seats while twirling on pointe? A private chef who also spins the hottest hits of the 2000s? Great news: There’s someone out there who fits your wildest imagination. When you want to throw a party that people won’t ever stop talking about, multitainers (as we’ve dubbed them) like the Cup Bearer in Greenwich, Connecticut, Black Haus Creative in NYC and France’s Rêvarte Entertainment are the answer.

Since the early 2000s, DJ Chef has been a leading concierge vendor. As the name suggests, he’s a private chef who simultaneously DJs, and he turns bachelorette parties into an unforgettable culinary experience. “At live events, I’d watch the dance floor die as soon as dinner arrived,” he says of the inspiration for

their sales-and-marketing teams,” Steck says. “We drive meaningful volume, introduce new audiences and create memorable moments that reflect well on their brands. In return, we’re able to secure exclusive perks, preferred pricing and added value that our clients would not be able to access on their own.”

But unlike traditional club promoters, they’re hired by clients—not the hospitality venues.

Ultimately, Steck says, “a thoughtfully planned bachelorette is about celebrating friendship. The

his New York–based business. “I thought, ‘Why are we separating the two things that make people fall in love with life?’ That moment became the spark.”

As a teenager, DJ Chef gained performance experience behind turntables. Then, after training under world-class chefs and winning Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, he launched his signature “concierge-level culinary performance” for the bachelorette industry. “I tailor the music, the interaction level and the pacing to the bride’s personality and the group’s vibe,” he explains. “Some want bougie glam vibes. Others want a throwback dance-floor takeover. Some want a full interactive cooking show. We create vibes, magic and memories.”

While this type of entertainment might sound reserved for high-profile clientele, the desire for elite treatment is a trend that isn’t going away anytime soon. “Bachelorettes have become modern milestones,” DJ Chef explains. “It’s the one moment in a bride’s life when her closest friends dedicate a weekend to her joy. It’s not about chasing virality; it’s about creating memories that feel once-ina-lifetime. Not everyone wants to go viral—but everyone wants to feel VIP.”

experience becomes part of your personal history, and that’s why brides care so deeply about getting it right.” With concierge-style support from national businesses like GNO Getaways, Bach to Basic and BachBoss, the weight of that expectation becomes less stressful for to-be-weds and their friends. “Clients want someone who gets the vibe, handles the logistics and makes everything feel easy,” Steck says. “When the experience is curated just for you, it shows. That’s what people remember long after the weekend is over.”

Headto-Toe Luster

Luster

PEARLS: THEY TRANSCEND THEIR VINTAGE ORIGINS AND GLISTEN THROUGHOUT THE WEDDING DAY. BEYOND THE HEIRLOOM STRAND, THE IRIDESCENT TREASURE OF TODAY IS REIMAGINED WITH A BOLD, CONTEMPORARY EDGE ACROSS FASHION, BEAUTY AND THE HOME.

By Esther Lee and Emily Rumsey

Photography by Jens Mortensen

Creative Direction by Nathalie Kirsheh

3 4 Impart a smoky, warm fragrance of pink peppercorn, incense and rockrose, meant to echo the dancing gleam of pearls. $340 for 100 ml, DiptyqueParis.com

This a touch to any bridal event RebeccaVallance com JenniferBehr com

Reinterpret classic veiling with French nylon netting, hand-stitched with Swarovski pearls on a silk-wrapped headband. $398, JenniferBehr.com

classic with French hand-stitched with Swarovski on a headband

This bonded-crepe halter mini with pearl-encrusted bows adds a dollish touch to any bridal event. $1,020, RebeccaVallance.com

Luminous Swarovski pearls double as magnets, letting brides personalize their hairstyle. $198, Jennifer Behr.com

5. Add a hint of opalescence to the classic wedding manicure with a freshwater-pearl polish set. $28, OliveandJune.com

6. Luminous white pearls elevate this classic pointed-toe bridal heel, a timeless option for the walk down the aisle. $1,025, JimmyChoo.com

7. Confection perfection. An exquisite addition to any capsule wardrobe, the beloved Bon Bon bag will see you through from the shower to the after-party. $2,895, JimmyChoo.com

7 Confection perfection An addition to any will see you after-party

The Gatsby dress is equal parts glamorous and coquette with its pearlstudded lines. From $7,500, GaliaLahav.com

10 The groom will gleam with this timepiece, which features a nacre dial and gold accents. $1,695, Shinola.com

Embellished with pearls, the stretch crepe fabric of this body-skimming midi dress is a fit for your rehearsal dinner. $395, JennyYoo.com

Embellished with the stretch crepe fabric of this midi dress is a fit for your rehearsal dinner. JennyYoo.com

Add pearlescent shimmer to your lips with this cult-favorite hydrating lip oil. $42, Dior.com

A drop waist, strapless corset and dramatic detachable skirt? All defining features on this bejeweled gown. $10,350, LeeGrebenau.com

Glow from within. A luminescent liquid highlighter, like this option available across seven hues, features brightening properties courtesy of treated pearls. $44, Charlotte Tilbury, Sephora.com

14 within like this available across seven features courtesy of treated pearls. Charlotte Sephora com

An illuminating powder (with a fresh take on pearls) adds a radiant glow. $75, Guerlain.com

Dubbed the Tree of Happiness (a harbinger of what’s to come in marriage), this symbolic white-gold brooch is studded with

studded with Akoya cultured pearls. $3,150, MikimotoAmerica.com

Shaped like a scallop shell, this precious minaudière is composed of motherof-pearl and Swarovski crystals—a statement piece for every wedding event. $850, EKRDesigns.com

like a scallo this precious minau is of motand Swaro crystals a statem for every e EKRDesigns m

Pearl-adorned gossamertulle sleeves create a romantic two-in-one bridal look. $170, JennyYoo.com

Pearl-adorned gossamercreate a look. JennyYoo.com

For a bold couture statement, snag a pair of made-toorder over-theknee boots.

$1,650, BellaBelle Shoes.com

This mini flapper dress with an open back and hand-sewn pearl fringe is begging to hit the dance floor. $6,480, LeeGrebenau.com

19

This light ivory tulle veil, adorned with scattered pearls along the edges, is offered in fingertip, chapel or cathedral length. From $498, ABEllie.com

Pearl embroidery accents

You deserve the treatment specifically, this domed with pearl cabochons

22 You deserve the royal treatment—specifically, this domed gold headpiece with pearl cabochons. $178, LeletNY.com

of various shap

Pearls of various shapes and sizes give this white lehenga intricate texture and soft luminescence. $10,998, HarleenKaur.us

Pearl accents and sizes this white intricate texture soft luminescence HarleenKaur us the gold-trimmed collar and cuffs of this light pink sherwani. $738, HarleenKaur us

24. A subtle diamond catches light atop a keshi pearl. $2,200, KatKimFine Jewelry.com

25. Prismatic glass flutes refine every “santé” and “salud.” $56 for 4, Anthropologie.com

26. Alternating gold beads add a dash of sprezzatura to this pearl necklace. $648, RingConcierge.com

27. Bezel-set diamonds and pearls converge in this handmade piece. From $7,950, HannahFlorman.com

28. Embrace coastal charm with an oyster catchall. $18, UrbanOutfitters.com

29. If “je ne sais quoi” were tangible, she would be these pearl, diamond and 18k gold ear cuffs. $2,300 each, KatKimFineJewelry.com

30. Untreated mother-ofpearl elevates the classic cuff link. $290 a pair, Montblanc.com

Nails by Jazz Style; hand model: Xiaodan Li for Parts Models

VENUS WILLIAMS IS IN LOVE (NO, NOT THAT KIND). IN HER FIRST JOINT PRINT INTERVIEW WITH HUSBAND ANDREA PRETI, THE NEWLYWEDS OPEN UP ABOUT THEIR MULTIPLE WEDDINGS, THE MOMENTS THAT MATTERED MOST AND WHAT GREATNESS MEANS IN MARRIAGE.

BY ESTHER LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIE ELGORT

BY KESHA MCLEOD

ALL SIGNS POINT TO VENUS. February 2026 is the moment when the glowing planet is astrologically most prominent: As the cosmic entity sits lowest in the sky during the winter months, she is the star of a rare six-planetary alignment. Astrology buffs like me are fascinated.

Fortuitously, this is also the moment when we’ve scheduled our shoot for The Knot with another star by that name: Venus Williams. It’s slated over a long holiday weekend in Palm Beach, Florida, and the timing is relief-laden, with planes full of New Yorkers heading for the sunny state to escape one of the Northeast’s coldest winters on record. It’s the culmination of one of the most exciting life stretches on record for the multihyphenate, too, and we have arrived to extend her marital moment.

It’s been two months since the storied tennis player-turnedentrepreneur married actor-director Andrea Preti, over the course of a six-day celebration in Palm Beach, her longtime hometown. Venus first moved to the East Coast when she and her sister Serena were burgeoning preteen athletes under the tutelage of coach Rick Macci. In the years since, they became arguably two of the most renowned figures in tennis; certainly they’re the most iconic siblings ever to play the sport. Starting in the 2000s, Venus ascended to record-shattering heights in the sport, clinching a total of 23 Grand Slam titles and becoming a five-time Olympic medalist.

While achieving this excellence in her athletic career, in 2002 she also set her sights on another personal and professional objective: establishing her own architectural-design firm, V Starr. Its portfolio of projects has included the Spa at PGA National Resort in Palm Springs, as well as private residential projects.

But back to sisterhood: It’s evident that the Williams family bond runs deep. In pop culture, we saw the sacrifice and commitment that accompanied the sisters’ ascension in tennis in the Oscar-nominated 2021 film King Richard. Off the court, we’ve seen their devotion to family across many life milestones, including our favorite topic—weddings. So it was only fitting for Venus to bring her own wedding back to the South Floridian island she has called home for 35-plus years. Palm Beach is where she and

Andrea chose to sign their wedding license, where they opted to host their second wedding (more on that in a bit) and, of course, where the couple is now settled in marriage.

“My favorite moment of our Florida wedding was signing the license,” says Venus. “We had someone who knew someone at City Hall, so they helped us set everything up. We had a start time for hair and makeup at three-thirty in the morning, because we got [to City Hall] at 6 a.m. [so] we could take our pictures. West Palm Beach City Hall is beautiful—it’s modern—and the historical city hall is across the street. That way, we could get there early and do our thing, and we didn’t have to worry about someone [else] taking a picture. We wanted to keep it private.”

The couple arrived to a sun-dappled, serene morning overlooking West Palm. “We got to go upstairs, where they have these incredible views of the water on the 10th floor. We have these beautiful photos of ourselves sitting on the bench, waiting to be called into City Hall—we got to capture that moment,” she continues. “It was beautiful. And getting the actual license: We didn’t know we had to sign the license there—we just thought we got the paper. But the signing moment itself was just so beautiful, with our older sister Isha; it was great to have her there. I just wish …” Venus turns to her husband. “I wish your mom and dad and your brother could have come, because they would have enjoyed that.” (More on that later as well.)

For Andrea, too, the marriage license was one of the most emotional moments of the entire experience. “It’s a dream,” he says. “Because if you thought for all your life that you want to get married one day, and you want to have a family, and the day comes? You know that, of course, you have to [feel it]: That’s the day. The emotions I had inside were fireworks—‘Yeah, we made it. You know, we are here today. Now let’s start, start our new journey together.’ Sometimes I cannot talk. I release my emotions. I cry, but I cry with joy, yes. I always wanted to have a family.” He turns to Venus and caresses her hand. “And I think, in the deepest part of your heart,” he intones, “you wanted that too. It was a dream for us.”

“THE WEDDING, FOR ME, WAS ABOUT CELEBRATING WITH THE PEOPLE WE LOVED AND MAKING IT AN EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE.”

—VENUS WILLIAMS

WHAT THE PUBLIC HADN’T SEEN, until that point, was that the couple had already quietly exchanged vows in Ischia, Italy, the previous September The ceremony in Andrea’s home country was as much a gesture to the groom’s family as it was to commemorate their love in the place where their whirlwind romance had started

Oh, yes, did we mention that these two met at Milan Fashion Week, in 2024? Venus was in Lake Como with her sisters and decided to attend a party hosted by Gucci, a spur-of-the-moment decision that sparked a series of aftereffects Andrea spotted her there and commented on her striking beauty; little did he realize that the object of his desire was multilingual, with a high fluency in Italian, his native language. With the chemistry clear, Venus’ sister Lyndrea Price, who was on the scene for the meet-cute, pushed the two to continue the conversation (via WhatsApp, of all platforms)

It quickly became clear that this fateful encounter was growing to become more “He was a normal person,” says Venus “Such as: He wanted to call me A lot of people don’t want to call or talk on the phone in this day and age of dating People are like, ‘Why didn’t he text [you] where the restaurant was before the first date?’ [But] he did all the right things He took the time and the energy to come see me. We met in Italy, and then the next week I was in London, and he took the time to come all the way [there] A lot of people wouldn’t do that. They’re just too wrapped up in themselves.”

She pauses “Those were all really good signals ”

IMAGINE ISCHIA DURING the shoulder-season months, the crisp Mediterranean Sea filling the sultry September air with cool, salty breezes For the anticipatory excitement of loved ones gathered under a star-studded sky, Venus and Andrea thought a nighttime beach-volleyball tournament would be the most appropriate way to kick off their wedding festivities in his home country. “We wanted really fun ideas that our friends and family—that we—could remember,” she says And what would a Williams wedding be without the sport of choice? “We actually had a little tennis tournament It was more fun than you can imagine,” she reflects “It was beautiful The courts—you could see the sea in one distance and the mountains and the net I was like, ‘This is the most beautiful tennis court ever I want to practice and train [at this same exact court back] in Florida ’”

Such festivities unraveled at the Punta Imperatore Lighthouse in Ischia, followed by a reception at famed establishment L’Isola with fare by Michelin-starred chef Nino Di Costanzo Guests were also able to enjoy a fireworks display at the end of the wedding. “It was wild, it was wonderful I was screaming,” Venus says “It was the craziest show. That was [Andrea’s] surprise for me [in Italy]. It was just one of the best moments I love fireworks, so it was great ”

Of course, the seasoned professionals who help facilitate all of these magical moments are a need-to-have, not a nice-to-have Enter Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events, the go-to event planner for the Williams family, who subsequently oversaw the execution for their Palm Beach wedding week. “At the heart of every event they

host is a simple philosophy: friends and family first,” Zabinski says. “Having that as the guiding force made decisions feel clear and collaborative, and ensured the entire week stayed true to what mattered most to them ”

The first wedding had also came with a few learnings, after which Venus knew exactly what she wanted come December for their weeklong celebration back in the US. Affectionately nicknamed the “marathon wedding,” weeklong events have become ever more extravagant and thoughtful, especially for couples who want to introduce their guests to a special place For Venus and Andrea, that was their home

“[It] felt both exciting and deeply familiar for our team We have had the good fortune of producing events in the area for many years, so we were able to lean on a trusted network of exceptional local partners to help shape an unforgettable week,” says Zabinski “We also came into the planning process with a strong understanding of the family’s style and how they like to entertain. We’ve produced multiple weddings and celebrations for them over the past nine years.” Indeed, Zabinski was also the force behind Serena’s wedding to Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian in New Orleans in November 2017; Serena also hired her for friend Meghan Markle’s baby shower in 2019

Venus and Andrea were unable to make their marriage legal in Ischia, so the two brought that part of the celebration back to the US as well “In Italy, it takes a while to get paperwork for a wedding with a foreigner We didn’t have enough time to do it,” Venus explains “It takes, like, months and months That just wouldn’t have worked. So we had to have a second wedding. And we decided, ‘What a great opportunity, to have two weddings ’”

When planning their stateside nuptials, the couple initially wanted to keep things small Yet the guest list soon grew, as did the festivities and the wardrobe The ultimate order of events ran as follows: day 1, a yacht party; day 2, the bridal shower; day 3, a pool party with a Miami outing at an exclusive members’ club; day 4, a sports day to honor Venus’ illustrious and decorated athletic career (tennis, of course, among the options); day 5, the sunrise civil ceremony, a morning of presence for the pair; and day 6, the culmination of it all, the wedding and reception

According to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, the guest experience is the top priority for couples as they’re planning Clearly, giving their community an intentional multiday experience was top of mind for these to-be-weds “Another detail that felt quintessentially ‘them’—even with all the moving pieces and production underway—is that they still hosted daily pool parties at home throughout the week,” Zabinski says “It was such a thoughtful way to keep the celebration grounded It provided an opportunity for guests to relax and connect in smaller groups between the larger events ”

And that, to Venus, was exactly the point “The wedding, for me, was about celebrating with the people we loved and making it an experience for everyone And so for that reason, it was very

“Venus has been photographed by some of the greatest photographers in the world,” says photographer David Bastianoni. “Our approach was to keep everything very natural and respectful of the moment, blending an editorial eye with a documentary sensitivity. I am also very grateful to Jennifer from JZ Events for making everything possible and for bringing us together.”

Deuce Weddings

experiential,” Venus says. “Everything that we did—the bridesmaids’ luncheon, for example, wasn’t just a lunch; it was about everyone involved.”

However well anyone plans, snafus are bound to occur, which is why it’s always helpful to outsource support and maintain a positive attitude. “Wedding planning is definitely stressful, because just as soon as you think you’re done, there’s more to do,” Venus admits. “[A planner] takes the stress off so you can enjoy the moment. I loved working with [my wedding team], and they made me feel good. Sometimes in weddings, you just need someone to help, especially as a bride. Like, if you’re in a dress, you can’t walk anywhere. I [am the type to] do everything for myself. But in that moment, someone gets you water, someone helps you get your phone. Those are things you don’t think you need, but you do.”

It was in that blissful state during her Italian wedding that Venus

week feel even more personal and joyful.”

Backyard weddings have been a hot commodity ever since the premiere of Father of the Bride, but a wedding week spanning both the backyard and the playground of South Florida? Such was the case for Venus and Andrea. “We designed the ceremony and dinner layouts around the natural landscape of the backyard, rather than leveling the space with flooring,” says Zabinski. “And we transformed the pool area and driveway into a stunning reception setting. They were unwavering about not compromising on that intention, and the result felt exactly as they envisioned: elegant, personal and rooted in the place that means the most to them.”

One place where Andrea’s voice mattered significantly, Venus reflects, was in the catering. “I wanted him to be involved in things he cared about—like he loves, loves food,” she says. “So I wanted to make sure he loved the food. There were certain things he

“GREATNESS DOESN’T ALWAYS PRODUCE A RESULT, BUT IT PRODUCES SOMETHING THAT YOU CAN LEARN FROM AND GROW FROM.” —VENUS WILLIAMS

added to her state of euphoria with a serendipitous accident. “I broke my phone that week, and I didn’t fix it. It was wonderful,” she says. “So I would recommend breaking your phone, because you just get to be in the moment. It was great. I love that story—it was like, ‘I don’t even care. I’m so happy. It’s broken.’ When I got back to the computer at night, that’s when I got the text messages. You don’t realize how many things happen, how many things come up, how many things need to be taken care of. It’s going to be things and things and things and things.” (None of which she had to stress about in the moment.)

WHAT YOU, THE READER, DON’T SEE is the couple’s dog, Harry (short for Harold), on set, his petite tush nestled up against me on a couch in a suite at the Palm House on Royal Palm Way. At my one-on-one with Venus, the loyal canine joins us on the couch and comfortably looks to his mom with the same unflappable radiance she carries with grace. After all, Harold has lived 18 years of greatness himself, traveling the world by Venus’ side through all the championships—and now with a dad.

It did, however, take a few months for Harold and Andrea to get acquainted. “He met Harold in August, and I was actually getting a surgery, so I was, you know, in the hospital,” says Venus. “And Harry was so demanding—he scratched at the door, he kept crying until he was put onto the bed, he cried until he ate. He’s a very quiet dog, but like, when he wants something, he lets you know.” (It goes without saying that what Harry likely really wanted was Andrea for a dad, and for his mom to recover.)

As things turned out, both of them have come to support Williams on our set—Harold cradled in Andrea’s arms, as Venus holds court with our staff. “They’re bosom buddies,” she says. “They take naps together, they go places. They go to breakfast in the morning when I’m sleeping.”

Zabinski, for her part, couldn’t agree more. “Harry was the sweetest constant. He attended every single event,” she says. “He’s the center of their world, and having him there made the entire

probably didn’t care as much about, [and] certain things that mattered more to him and less to me, or more to me and less to him. So it was a balance. It was easy.”

The main question for Venus throughout the whole process— especially given her role as co-chair for the 2026 Met Gala—was: What would she wear? Embarking on wedding planning with a specific vision for fashion required some professional support, so the bride enlisted stylists Kesha McLeod and Kyla Thomas to help curate her week-of wardrobe. “This was actually my first time working with Venus. I’ve worked with her sister [Serena] for over 10 years and styled her wedding, so she approached me about assisting V for this US-based celebration,” says McLeod, who joined The Knot team on set in Palm Beach to style her in her bridal looks (a reunion of sorts). “Venus had already had her Italian wedding in September, so this was a completely different moment. For me, the macro vision was simple: to make sure she felt comfortable and understood. The great thing about Venus is that she is incredibly creative. You see that even on the court. She already had a full vision [for the wedding]. My role was to execute it and elevate it where I could. It was about bringing her ideas to life on a grand scale, while keeping everything intentional.”

In total, loved ones and fans saw 14 distinct ensembles on Venus throughout the week; much as her wedding events grew with time, so did her wardrobe—an intentional decision made by the bride and her stylist. “I don’t even call it a wedding day—it’s a wedding event,” McLeod elaborates. “It was about assigning the right look to the right moment. V had a clear understanding of what fit where and what energy each event required. When she showed me her inspiration board, she said, ‘I know this is a lot.’ I told her, ‘Give me everything. Let me see the full vision.’ Then I asked, ‘Can we make this bigger? Can we elevate this even more?’ That’s how I approach styling. I take someone’s vision, execute it and then scale it appropriately. And if there’s ever a time to scale, it’s your wedding.”

Handpicked designers included Kim Kassas Couture (bridal

shower), Nadia Manjarrez (sports day), Morilee New York (courthouse ceremony), Alexandra Grecco (preceremony cocktails), Anne Barge (reception dinner), Eve of Milady (getting ready) and more ( ... is more). For the wedding itself, the bride went custom with a piece by Georges Hobeika, a choice that was both deliberate and yet also part of a painstaking decisionmaking process.

“It really came down to the wire for the ceremony dress,” recalls McLeod. “We had one final fitting the night before, and we were still planning to try another option the morning of. We tried on 22 dresses. I look at clothes every day, so my attachment is usually to the garment, not necessarily the moment. But when she put on the Georges Hobeika dress, which became her ceremony gown—and she put it on literally an hour before the ceremony for us to decide—I just started crying. We had spent two months in nonstop fittings. With makeup, without makeup, quick try-ons, veil moments, flowers, champagne—so many different versions of her in white. And in that moment something just shifted. She recently sent me a picture of [myself] standing there, crying. I had to step away for a second. Even though we technically still had other options, it felt like ‘This is it.’”

BACK TO THE MARRIAGE LICENSE: Is it official? We know the couple obtained and signed it at City Hall, but what comes next? Well, when you’re Venus Williams, of course there’s an added layer to the story. “My sister Serena is a notary. So she actually was legally the person who married us. Andrea’s friend was Italian, so he translated it,” Venus recounts, explaining this was for a few dozen Italian loved ones who’d flown in for the wedding. “Then our sister Isha did a lot of the ceremony. Then Serena stepped in and did the legal part. And then we actually had to sign the papers—we were too busy, so we [did that] a couple days later. But we had a little moment where we, like, were able to sign it all together. And it was really nice. And Serena was there, and she made sure we signed it and got everything.”

Now the couple is basking in marriage. When I ask them what a typical Sunday morning looks like, Andrea tells me: “I wake up. I take him”—he points to Harold—”breakfast, then come back. Then I wake her up, she goes to [weekly] service, or we do our things. We like to play sports, normally. We go to lunch with family. We stay together. We enjoy simple things. I think the most important thing for a couple is to always keep the simple things going every single day. We focus on simple things, the small things. Small things make a difference. If you start to forget about it, the small things together in a relationship, it’s not good anymore.”

It all returns to intention—which Andrea displayed from the very onset of their courtship. “She’s a choice. Every day, those small things are also a choice. You don’t want to take for granted

these types of things,” he says. “Every morning, we say, ‘Good morning. I love you.’ I do it because I feel [it], but I also know that this is the right thing to do. To keep a relationship always here, and not, like, let it [decline or fall apart].”

Andrea joins Venus and me on that couch; Harold posts up beside them too. And here’s what happens next: Somehow the couch expands, or the love and presence evident between this couple enlarges the room. It’s similar to Venus’ wedding wardrobe, and the volume of wedding events, all executed with thought and care. Their tender love is continuing to grow after the wedding, creating space to let others bask in their joy and receive it. “I think it’s a wonderful feeling [to be in love]. I think it’s one thing if you love someone, but you’re not ready to spend your life [together],” says Venus. “But when you love someone and you’re ready to spend your life with someone, it’s just an amazing feeling. And it makes all the process that you’re going through, like planning and doing—all the stages of getting married—super special, because you really love that person in a way that maybe you didn’t love before.”

Their affinity is clear from Andrea’s words as well: “I tell you, I am very protective of her. I always look at her. I can see it in her eyes, just by watching her eyes, I understand how she feels, what you need,” he says, turning to his wife, then back again. “And I’m always very focused [on making sure] that everything is okay with her. This is also the kind of attention that I like to have on my wife— [I make sure] she [feels] safe, if she is like, ‘Okay, I feel good.’”

For 30-plus years, Venus has been unrelenting in her pursuit of greatness on the court, a practice she has carried over to her design firm, and now to marriage. “I think how I’ve always seen greatness is about the effort, because you can be great and sometimes still not get the result,” she says. “So greatness doesn’t always produce a result, but it produces something that you can learn from and grow from. And however you approach something, whatever you put into it, you’re going to get out what you give. So for me, greatness was always about how I could give my best mentally, physically, emotionally. And if I had done that, I was great.”

Reflecting on how this translates to a relationship, Venus continues: “I think over time, you know, you can start holding hands less, and this, that [and] the other, because it becomes a routine. But always being present, and realizing that once again you’re going to get what you get out of it.… You know, we already know each other. So for me, greatness would be to continue to give that effort, even when it seems like you might not want to.” She pauses, then goes on. “I want to succeed, and I know that to succeed, I need to give the same effort in the beginning and in each stage.”

For with Venus Williams, now in love, greatness is expected— then, now and beyond.

“WHEN YOU LOVE SOMEONE AND YOU’RE READY TO SPEND YOUR LIFE WITH SOMEONE, IT’S JUST AN AMAZING FEELING.”

—VENUS WILLIAMS

A New York Lifetime

THIS GARDEN-PARTY SOIREE AT THE CENTRAL PARK BOATHOUSE

CAPTURED THE RADIANCE OF SUMMER IN THE CITY.

KAYLEIGH & EVAN

Story by Cathryn Haight | Photography by Ruby Olivia Photography

New York City bartenders witness a lot of first dates, so one would imagine they wouldn’t bat an eye at yet another pair flirting atop a set of stools. But when Kayleigh Adam (31, a PR director) met up with Evan McLaughlin (31, a generative AI project manager) in March 2021 at The Craic in Brooklyn, the spark was so apparent that even their server noticed the connection (and offered them shots).

“The bartender asked me if we were on a first date, and said that he had seen a lot of first dates before, but none that had gone this well,” says Kayleigh. “He was definitely onto something—Evan and I haven’t gone a day since without speaking.”

A “Hinge success story,” the couple got engaged in July 2024 on a trip to Montauk, New York. Evan didn’t think Kayleigh was expecting the proposal— that is, until he suspiciously suggested they watch the sunset on the beach before dinner, even though it was a rainy day. Sure enough, something golden and bright (well, two golden things) awaited the lovebirds once they stepped on the sand.

“When we got there, the sun poked out of the clouds,” says Evan. “As I proposed, everyone on the beach applauded, and someone captured a video and shared it with us. So nervous, but so worth it.” Kayleigh said “yes!” in the golden glow of the surprise sunset, to a shimmering pear-cut, hidden-halo engagement ring on a gold band from Frank Darling.

The couple celebrated at Mavericks Montauk, sipping on the seemingly endless champagne sent to their table by onlookers who’d seen Evan pop the question. “It was so special to soak in that moment before we shared it with everyone,” says Kayleigh.

Eleven months later, they welcomed 130 loved ones to NYC for a wedding weekend planned by Annie Lee of Daughter of Design that was a true

Thinking on their feet: “We had not practiced until about five minutes before we did our walk-in moment,” says the bride of their first dance. “I told Evan I would walk around him in a slow circle and we would just wing it. It worked!” The firstdance song (“Heat Waves” by Glass Animals) was kept secret from everyone until that moment.

snapshot of summer in the city. “Since our love story began in New York, it was a no-brainer to get married here,” says Kayleigh.

One of the many aspects of the city that she totally captured was its status as a hub for high fashion. Kayleigh curated her own slate of looks sans stylist, keeping tabs on social media and the Bridal Fashion Week runways for ideas. For the rehearsal dinner, she donned an ethereal PatBO number embellished with blue butterflies, which she’d fallen in love with during Fashion Week and her mother-in-law had bought for her once it hit stores. Later, she changed into an Anthropologie sequined corset-and-skirt set for the rooftop welcome party.

brilliant sunset on their otherwise-cloudy proposal day—it also had Kayleigh’s ideal wedding date, June 21, free. “We knew it was meant to be.”

The special accessory that enhanced every look: a bespoke bridal bag by Anthony Luciano. “We built the purse around the frame, incorporating colors and a summer garden-party feel,” says Kayleigh. “Anthony found feathers and knew they would be perfect for me, a maximalist. I used the bag the night before, on the day and on my honeymoon.”

THE CEREMONY

On the wedding day, the bride glowed in a gown by Netta BenShabu, fully hand-beaded with freshwater pearls and presenting what she calls “the perfect amount of poof”—an obvious call for this “embellished girly.” The groom and father of the bride brought style to their suits with custom floral brooches by Jennifer Behr in place of boutonnieres.

The couple got a sneak peek at each other’s day-of attire during a sentimental first look outside The Carlyle hotel, ahead of the ceremony at the iconic Central Park Boathouse. “We wanted to portray true, classic New York City,” says Kayleigh. The latter was the first venue they’d looked at and—in a moment of kismet akin to the

The space was bedecked with blooms to evoke a summer garden party, as well as to nod to the groom’s penchant for plants. “I love flowers and foliage,” says Evan. “I’d love to open a nursery one day and I love our apartment plants, so I asked for tons of greenery, and they made it look super lush.”

A grounded arch bursting with blossoms like peonies, ranunculus and delphiniums marked the end of the aisle (and later did double duty gracing the DJ booth), while three arrangements were fastened onto the room’s dark-wood beams to add color. Every petal played into the couple’s palette of sage green and dusty pink with pops of purple and terra-cotta.

Just as the flowers were handpicked for their June wedding, Kayleigh feels that Evan was selected for her by a beloved late relative: “My grandpa was a professional photographer, who I imagined my whole life would take my bridal portraits,” she says.

“Shortly after I met Evan, after an eventful four years of dating in NYC where everything went wrong all the time, it suddenly felt like this person was handpicked for me. I strongly believe that my poppy had something to do with that.”

Kayleigh’s uncle Scott officiated the ceremony as a nod to her grandpa (Scott is his son), and the bride mentioned the moment she’d noticed the godwink between her groom and her grandfather in her vows. She explains that cardinals are traditionally thought of as signs from lost loved ones, and she knew the relationship was right when she saw Evan wearing his old school trackteam shirts adorned with the red bird. His vows, meanwhile, included a promise to keep Kayleigh smiling—and an adorable preemptive lean-in for a kiss.

Once the couple was officially married and Evan had “nailed” the quintessential end-ofaisle dip, the newlyweds hopped in a rowboat for a lap of the Central Park Lake. Guests cheered them on from a private brick patio, where cocktail hour unfolded under sparkling string lights and a raw bar overflowed

Ò

We walked around and spoke to everyone, and it felt so special to have so many people in one room from all walks of life.

with goodies like tuna tartare and poached lobster tails. Passed apps and a violinist circulated through groups chatting over Summer in the City spritzes, a take on the Hugo spritz with a fruity kiss from muddled strawberries. “The ambience was incredible, especially for guests who had never visited NYC before,” says Kayleigh.

THE RECEPTION

Back inside the boathouse, patterned chargers and floral-embroidered napkins added charm to the reception tables, which were beautified with summer blooms spilling over the edges for an overflowing-garden feel. When guests were settled in their seats, the couple stepped into their first dance, to a song that was nontraditional, a surprise and totally them.

“We landed on ‘Heat Waves’ by Glass Animals for a few reasons,” says Kayleigh of the song, which is dreamy and danceable, with a killer bass line. “First, I’ve been obsessed with the song since 2020, to the point that multiple people in my life associate me with it. Second, when we were dating early on, Evan came over and I had it on a fourhour loop—he was very confused why it kept repeating, but thought it was funny. Third, we got married in the middle of June—the

chorus! And fourth, going this route made the general atmosphere more fun.”

After the dances (including a surprise number for Kayleigh and her mom) came a dinner of summer favorites like steak, lemony ricotta agnolotti and fluffy Parker House rolls that were a huge hit. Guests then enjoyed almond wedding cake with chocolate filling and chocolate pot de crème.

The sweets were followed by a reception set that, according to Evan, was specifically curated for maximum dance potential: The couple had a strict no-play list to tailor the vibe. A live saxophonist got the party started, and the bride shimmied into a sparkly minidress for the occasion. A last dance to “Innerbloom” by Rüfüs du Sol kept the good vibes up before everyone headed uptown to Keys & Heels, a speakeasy where the revelry continued well beyond 2 a.m.

“There were many special moments, but dinner and the after-party are what really stood out,” says Kayleigh. “We walked around and spoke to nearly everyone, and it felt special to have so many people in one room from all walks of life.” Guests exited into the “late night in the middle of June” with taxicab matchboxes, and the fizzy feeling that comes with spending a summer evening in New York City.

Wedding Date

June 21, 2025

Event Planning + Design

Annie Lee/ Daughter of Design Ceremony + Reception Site

The Central Park Boathouse

Photography

Ruby Olivia Photography

Videography

Dekony Visuals

Floral Design Winsome Floral

Officiant

Scott Allen (Kayleigh’s uncle)

Gowns

Wedding & after-party: Netta BenShabu Veil

Jaxon James Tuxedo

Suitsupply

Shoes

Kayleigh: Jeffrey Campbell (heels); Stuart Weitzman (flats); Evan: Suitsupply

Accessories

Earrings: heirloom (ceremony); Jennifer Behr (reception); Amazon (after-party); bag: Anthony Luciano; tie: Suitsupply; brooch: Jennifer Behr

Engagement + Wedding Rings

Frank Darling

Hair + Makeup

Kayleigh: Suzette Esquivel/ Makeup by Suzette; bridesmaids: Karina Delacruz and Britany Fuller/ Hairspray & Highlight

Wedding Party Attire

Bridesmaids: Birdy Grey Groomsmen: various

Stationery

Lewes Lettering Co.

Rentals

Highstyle Event Rental; Nuage Designs; Party Rental Ltd.

Catering + Desserts

The Central Park Boathouse

Cake + Desserts

A Simple Cake

Music

Downtown Talent

Favors BrodieBee

Seasons of Love

THIS COUPLE WALKED THEIR GUESTS THROUGH AN INTIMATE RETELLING OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP, WITH A NOD TO SPRING, SUMMER, FALL AND WINTER.

HẠNH HÀ & KAI ĐINH

Story by Chapelle Johnson | Photography by HoangPhuong Wedding House

Hạnh Hà (a founder and creative strategist for a mental-health nonprofit) and Kai Đinh (a singer, songwriter and producer) first met in 2023, while working on the same charity project What started as a close connection between colleagues soon flourished into something deeper and romantic “We found a rare harmony in one another—speaking the same quiet language of understanding and love, and realizing along the way that this was something we wanted to hold onto,” says the couple

After two beautiful years together, they got engaged in early 2025 and immediately started planning the wedding “Because of our work schedules, we always knew we wanted a planner,” they say “We were introduced to The Story Packer team through a mutual connection, and after our first meeting, we felt confident and comfortable entrusting them with our wedding journey”

With that vendor on board, the next step on the to-be-weds’ agenda was finding a dream venue: one that would allow for a ceremony in an open spaceclose to nature, and an intimate dinner in a ballroom After a brief search, the Westin Resort and Spa Cam Ranh in Khánh Hòa, Vietnam, quickly became their choice for their wedding date of July 6, 2025. The location was everything they’d been hoping for. “We were immediately drawn to its beautifully maintained green lawn, the modern and well-designed facilities and the endless blue of Cam Ranh’s coastline,” say Kai and Hạnh “The setting felt both serene and elevated, striking the perfect balance between nature and comfort It was a place where our vision could truly come to life, and where our wedding felt exactly as we had imagined”

The couple next turned to their aesthetic, opting for one that would fit the picturesque location. “‘Four Seasons of Love’ was the central theme of our wedding,” they

Forever and Always

“ We wanted to re-create the journey of moving through each season of love within a single day.”

(Fashion) Forward-Thinking

As a wedding favor, Hạnh designed custom formal dresses and party-ready outfits to show her appreciation to the female guests who traveled from afar to celebrate her union.

yellow twisted-petal gerbera daisies. Of course, there were plenty of beverages and canapés to delight the guests. “We served a selection of light bites that we truly love, including smoked salmon with avocado, crispy fried chicken wings and marinated fruit skewers,” the couple shares. “These were paired with refreshing drinks: lychee mojitos and peach Bellinis.”

say. “We wanted to re-create the journey of moving through each season of love within a single day, marking a new milestone in our shared story.”

THE WEDDING WELCOME

As guests arrived, they experienced the glow of summer—“full of warmth, energy and vibrant emotions,” as the couple puts it. Rather than a cocktail hour postceremony, they decided to have their 120 guests mingle before they exchanged vows in an outdoor space full of lively, summer-inspired yellow hues. A large hanging installation, shaped like the mountains of the region, displayed things the couple adore about each other, beneath which stood an arrangement resembling a hilly meadow—a base of moss topped with lemons, white cauliflower and

One final experiential component topped off the summery cocktail hour: a creative corner for well-wishes and drawings, which were done on cards resembling vinyl records. The theme was also incorporated into their invitation suites and menus. “It’s a symbol of music, which has shaped Kai’s life and brought us together throughout our journey,” says Hạnh. After finishing their creations, loved ones were encouraged to tie the handwritten keepsakes with ribbon to the flower garlands hanging in the creative corner.

THE CEREMONY

Guests were then moved to the ceremony, which embodied autumn. This was the season in the couple’s love story when their feelings “felt deeper, calmer and more intentional,” they say.

Since Hạnh and Kai picked their outfits to-

gether, they didn’t have a first look. Instead, they walked separately to the front of the aisle, each getting their own special moment, and then happily processed together down a white and green walkway lined with white roses and moss to the infinity-shaped arch.

“Perhaps the most emotional moment for us was when Hạnh met me at the aisle while walking to the song ‘Lễ Đường,’ which I composed,” recalls Kai. “It was a moment where everything aligned and came together to celebrate the day we officially chose each other.”

Hạnh wore pearl-studded sheer gloves and a stunning white Basque-waist gown, while Kai sported a handsome tan suit. The bridesmaids, who wore light gray dresses, and the groomsmen, in aquamarine suits, stood alongside the couple on pale-green platforms as they shared their vows, which had everyone in attendance shedding a tear or two.

And that wasn’t the only thing that made

Wedding Date

July 6, 2025

Ceremony + Reception Site

The Westin Resort and Spa Cam Ranh, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam

Photography + Videography

HoangPhuong

Wedding House

Second

Photographer

Trang Nguyen

Event Planning

The Story Packer

Event Art Director

The Dang Studio

Event + Flower Design

J’may Wedding & Events

Event Graphic Art

Designer

Nguyen Doan

Minh Tuan

Ceremony MC Long Hoang (friend of the couple)

Gowns

Getting ready:

EmWear; ceremony:

Lek Chi Bridal; reception: Valenciani; first dance: Eegen

Suits

Adam Store

Wedding Rings Chaumet

Hair

Chimi

Makeup

Đặng Trí Viễn and Tuyền Đặng

Wedding Party Attire

Bridesmaids: Eegen; groomsmen: Adam Store

Stationery

Deus Wedding Invitations

Rentals

One Chair

Catering

Food: The Westin Resort and Spa

Cam Ranh; drinks: Scavi & Ray Winery

Cake

Moka Sweet Cake

Music Ceremony: Erik; first dance: Duc Phuc and Hoang Rob; reception: Kai Đinh, 2pillz and Duong K

Favors

Face Wash Fox; KitKat

Lyrics of Love

A scroll-style installation behind the sweetheart table featured a laser-cut romantic verse from Kai’s song for the first dance, “Xuân Vũ.”

guests emotional. During the lovebirds’ first kiss and exit, their dear friend Erik touchingly performed ‘You May Kiss Your Bride’—a song Kai produced especially for the wedding.

THE RECEPTION

Winter’s presence was the theme of the evening reception, which evoked love and togetherness amid a palette of pale and dark blue. Dozens of candles; small centerpieces of white phalaenopsis orchids, lisianthus and little luna leaves; luxurious drapery flowing over the ceiling and walls; and blue uplighting made the ballroom feel like a winter wonderland. To match the concept, Hạnh changed into a form-fitting one-shoulder white gown with an accompanying cape, while Kai donned a blue-gray diamanté suit.

After guests had been served roasted pumpkin soup, barbecue ribs, creamy fettuccine pasta with mushroom ragout and

much more, it was time for the spring season to begin. The lights shifted to a light pink color—“it represented our spring, with moments of emotional release bursting with joy and celebration,” the couple says—and the fashionable pair made one last outfit change: Hạnh into a timeless white gown and Kai to a simple black vest and trousers.

Then the newlyweds took the dance floor, as two of their musician friends performed a song composed by Kai for their first dance.

“The song, ‘Xuân Vũ,’ speaks of spring, the season when we first met and began to get to know each other, and the spring of love when we officially became one,” he says.

“The lyrics reflect our journey, making it a soft, intimate piece perfectly suited for a heartfelt first dance.”

The waltz ended with an expertly executed dip and an explosion of confetti that got everyone energized. Two DJs, lots of dancing and a tulip-adorned vanilla cake with mango layers filled the rest of the night. But one of the most memorable parts of the celebration was the couple’s cake-cutting ceremony.

“We had an oversize wedding cake and invited our closest guests to cut it with us, raising a glass and enjoying it together as a celebration of kinship.”

Anchors Aweigh

Lovebirds: The mother of the couple’s close friend designed the invites. “We wanted them to feel airy and light, with watercolor scenes of the property and the event locations,” says Sydney. A heron was included in the design—inspired by a pair that began appearing together at the dock on Sydney’s family property after both of her grandparents had passed—to represent family legacy and enduring love.

A MARRIAGE

PACT

MADE IN COLLEGE BLOSSOMED INTO THIS FRIENDS-TO-LOVERS COUPLE’S EPIC CAPE COD BASH.

Photography by Bo Shim SYDNEY & JAKE

Story by Cathryn Haight

Not much sticks around after freshman year of college, whether it’s friends, fashion choices or (what you thought would be) your major. But for Sydney Ellis (32, a sustainability consultant) and Jake Weil (32, in private credit), something special happened then that stood the test of time: They made a pact—half in jest—to someday marry.

Both lacrosse players, the two met in 2011 while attending Dartmouth College and kept things platonic during their undergrad years. Although there was a moment during Jake’s Senior Day game that hinted to that playful promise and their bright future. “I stood in the stands with a handmade sign that read, ‘Weil You Marry Me?’” says Sydney. “Little did we know it foreshadowed what was to come.”

The pair remained just friends for nearly a decade, until they both were living in NYC in summer 2021 and began dating. By that winter, the duo was “in it for the long haul,”

The couple got engaged in August 2024 at Anchor to Windward, a summer property in Osterville, Massachusetts, that’s been in Sydney’s family for three generations. They were out attending a barbecue, and Jake had planned for them to leave early to propose at the house. But there was one hurdle to overcome: Sydney’s social-butterfly energy.

“What I didn’t anticipate was that it would be a 10/10 day,” Jake says. “Sydney, being the life of the party, refused to leave.” (Eventually, he persuaded her to go by faking an illness.)

Back at Anchor to Windward, he asked Sydney to walk him through her dream wedding, knowing the tour would end at her favorite spot: her grandmother’s garden overlooking Cape Cod’s West Bay. Jake got down on one knee and asked for Sydney’s hand before the blooms. Post-“yes!” they shared Aperol spritzes and an impromptu dip in the bay, before joining the Ellises for a boat ride and dinner under the stars.

It was their engagement locale, the place their families had met and where they spent summers, and the setting of three other family weddings. So Anchor to Windward was the natural choice for the festivities too. The pair took care to curate a slate of celebrations that captured the vibrancy of a summer weekend spent there, giving guests endless access to great food, vibes and company.

“We both felt very strongly that, if we were going to ask people to travel for our wedding, we should make sure they had meals and activities available,” says Sydney. “After attending 17 weddings the previous year, we knew that small gestures make a big difference.”

“ It’s a funny thing, falling in love with your best friend. It’s scary, and exciting, and risky and incredibly rewarding.”

THE WELCOME FESTIVITIES

The mid-September wedding weekend kicked off with an intimate clambake rehearsal dinner on the property’s beach— though with the pair’s 29(!) bridesmaids and groomsmen, it was still a full house. As a nod to the Ellis family’s annual Fourth of July party, guests wore red, white and blue to match “Americana-themed” picnic tablescapes. The meal finished with cookies made by Jake’s cousin’s bakery, and then the party opened to all guests, who partook in fireside s’mores and many rounds of “Dartmouth pong” (beer pong played with Ping-Pong paddles).

“Starting the weekend off with our toes in the sand, surrounded by our closest friends and family, was very special,” says the bride. In a wink to her sustainable-fashion ca-

reer, Sydney incorporated secondhand pieces into every outfit in her wedding wardrobe. One of her most noteworthy ensembles was a strapless skirt-and-top set, crafted from her mother’s 1981 wedding dress for the Friday-evening welcome party, complete with a scarf fashioned from its lace sleeves. The perfect finishing touch: her grandmother’s Nantucket basket bag, adorned with an etching of Anchor to Windward.

The welcome party took place at the Osterville Historical Museum, where guests enjoyed lawn games and live music. The pair chose the rural-ish setting as an homage to their New Hampshire college town—and that wasn’t the only aspect of the evening that recalled fun times. Nine loved ones gave toasts, each funnier than the last. “The night ended

up feeling more like stand-up comedy,” says Sydney. In keeping with the Ellises’ tradition of wedding musical tributes, her cousins sang “Texas Hold ’Em” by Beyoncé (the bride’s favorite artist), with a few lyrics tweaked to reference the couple, to cap things off.

THE CEREMONY

The next day—September 13, 2025—150 guests gathered at Anchor to Windward to watch the lovebirds wed. On the property’s beach, a boardwalk aisle was flanked with baskets of natural eelgrass, ending at a chuppah perched at the edge of West Bay, wound with delicate vines and white flowers.

The groom arrived by boat to the ceremony, and the bride—looking radiant in a custom gown and a veil borrowed from her cousin— descended to the shore on the arm of her father to Ben Howard’s “Old Pine,” a nod to Dartmouth’s Lone Pine emblem.

Officiated by Sydney’s brother-in-law, Nick, the ceremony was a highlight. “It was surprisingly fun, with Nick taking us through a detailed investigation into who caught feelings first over the decade we had been ‘just friends,’” says Sydney. “It was so clever and personal—we laughed throughout the whole thing.” Nick also emphasized the couple’s strong relationship, built on trust, adventure and the ability to light up a room.

A college pal read Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken,” then the couple recited their personal vows—both mentioning a commitment to a foundation of friendship. “It’s a funny thing, falling in love with your

best friend,” says Sydney. “It’s scary, and exciting, and risky and incredibly rewarding.”

After “I do,” the newlyweds departed aboard a Hinckley Picnic Boat captained by Sydney’s dad’s childhood best friend, as guests tossed flower petals from the dock. The pair was excited to catch up on their respective wedding mornings while sipping some just-married champagne.

Back ashore, guests also celebrated with bubbly: A toast on the beach flowed into cocktail hour on the lawn. Attendees mingled over two signature cocktails—a tequila cosmo built from the father of the bride’s recipe, and the Dartmouth-influenced Big Green, with notes of cucumber and lime—as well as tuna tartare, spring rolls and a raw bar.

THE RECEPTION

A floral fete inspired by the couple’s engagement spot followed: “My grandmother’s garden served as our main inspiration, as it’s the first thing you see,” says Sydney. A sailcloth tent spanned over the grounds, positioned so the garden’s lush flowers bloomed along one side. Along with beachy rattan details, petals popped up everywhere, from the centerpieces bursting with coral roses to the pressed flowers adorning the cake and escort cards.

The revelry began with the couple’s first dance, to “Real Love Baby” by Father John Misty. “We can’t really remember when it became our song, but we always knew we’d choose it,” says the bride. “We choreographed the dance ourselves—a little last-minute, which is typically how we do things—so we used our solo boat ride after the ceremony as a last chance to rehearse.”

Dances for the bride and her father and the groom and his mother followed, plus one more special number: The newlyweds surprised Sydney’s sister (the maid of honor) and brother-in-law (the officiant) with the “first dance they never had.” (Their own wedding had been canceled during the pandemic.) “They did so much for us throughout the process,” says Sydney. “It made us so happy to give them something as a thank-you.”

As the sun set, attendees dined on misoglazed salmon, chimichurri skirt steak and sides served family-style, then wedding cake (one layer: lemon-raspberry; the other: red-velvet-espresso). The bash continued with bonfires and a boathouse silent-disco after-party that rivaled the couple’s college nights spent dancing in the Theta Delta Chi fraternity basement. And when the bride’s dad turned on the disco ball, “the entire crowd went nuts,” says Sydney. “We didn’t stop dancing until the early morning.”

The couple’s wedding concluded just as their proposal did, with a joyful jump into West Bay. (The maid of honor played lifeguard.) It was a worthy send-off to a summer of celebration at Anchor to Windward, sure to be reminisced over for seasons to come.

Wedding Date

September 13, 2025

Ceremony + Reception Site

A private residence, Cape Cod

Photography

Bo Shim

Event Planning

Elegant Engagements of Cape Cod

Floral Design

KJ Floral Design

Officiant

Nick Stevens (Sydney’s brother-in-law)

Gowns

Ceremony: Lela Rose; after-party: Staud Veil

Amsale

Suit

Suitsupply

Shoes

Sydney: Larroudé; Jake: Allen Edmonds

Accessories

Sydney: Jewelry: Mejuri; Dorsey; Tiffany & Co.; Jake: The Tie Bar

Hair

Hair Society Cape Cod Makeup

Chantal Ambroise

Wedding Party Attire

Bridesmaids: various; groomsmen: Generation Tux

Stationery

Invitations: Louise Carrie Wales; escort & place cards: Olivia J Stationery; menus: byAtem

Decor + Rentals

Kadeema; Peak Event Services; Silent Disco Party Rentals; True North Event Rentals

Catering + Cake

The Casual Gourmet

Music

Bloom room: The bride’s grandmother’s garden was the centerpiece of the wedding design—literally and figuratively. Arrangements inspired by its flowers graced the tables, while the reception tent was intentionally placed to show off the real thing.

Ceremony: Paul Good; reception: Soul of Boston; after-party: Cape Tunes

Favors

Sweet T Cookie Shop

Transportation Cape Destinations

Most Romantic Destinations in the World

YOUR HONEYMOON OR DESTINATION WEDDING DESERVES AN ARDENT AND IDYLLIC SETTING THAT EVOKES THE SULTRY AND THE SUBLIME.

By Esther Lee

The act of traveling with your partner or loved ones already sparks a poetic departure from everyday life, but what exactly defines a place as romantic? This editor has ruminated over this very question. Could it be the serene and secluded qualities of a remote island, or the panoramic vistas offered by a vantage point? Or is it the old-world milieu of a locale where experiences and flavors further heighten the senses? It was admittedly challenging to refine this list down to the final 30, yet one recurring theme quickly became clear: beauty. Every setting here evokes a sublime and ethereal quality that isn’t commonly found elsewhere—be it through the people, the spaces or the experiences. A truly romantic destination embodies love through the unspoken.

International & Caribbean

There’s a reason why this region has been considered the pinnacle of the globe’s romance-fueled locales for millennia. Roman emperors sought respite and revelry on the Amalfi Coast during the summer months—practices still enjoyed there today. Its vicinity boasts some of the finest hotels and dining establishments in the world, ranging from post-dip beach-club haunts to five-course fine dining at whitetablecloth establishments, perfect for the peak destination-wedding aesthetic. Encompassing 13 scenic towns—including the worldfamous Positano, the serene Ravello, and the heart of it all, Amalfi—its spectacular and dramatic coastline wraps along the Mediterranean. (Pro tip: The Sentiero degli Dei, the Path of the Gods, is a must-do for couples who want to stay active. Chase it with a beach-club dip.)

Where to Book: Tucked a stone’s throw away from Amalfi’s town center, the lauded Borgo Santandrea (a Relais & Châteaux property) is widely considered the ne plus ultra for destination weddings and honeymoons in the region. Perched cliffside nearly 300 feet above the sea, this haven offers an immersive local experience that’s reserved exclusively for guests, with a private beach club, hand-painted blue tiles and ceramics by local artists Marco Fusco and Lucio Liguori, a Michelin-starred restaurant on property and houseboats that ferry guests to Positano and back. From $1,200 per night, BorgoSantandrea.it

Balearic Islands, Spain

With its verdant shades of green set against the turquoise sea, this Mediterranean archipelago has long attracted seasoned travelers and revelers alike. The bestknown island is Ibiza, for its nightlife, salt pans and bohemian contrasts. The largest in size, however, is Mallorca, which certainly pulls its weight with the famed Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCOhonored mountain range that offers dramatic vistas winding through idyllic towns like Deià, Valldemossa and Sóller.

Where to Book: The Ibiza Gran Hotel, located near the port of that island’s eponymous main town, is a gastronomically driven five-star option frequented by stars and super yachters. Its spa is not to be missed, particularly for those who need to pamper their toes after a night out at Cipriani followed by dancing at Pacha or the swanky Chinois. From $350, IbizaGranHotel .com

In Mallorca, couples are spoiled for choice. Perhaps the most renowned option, however, is La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, in Deià. From $1,400, Belmond.com

Bali, Indonesia

Where to Book:

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Known as the Island of the Gods, the spiritually steeped, culturally entwined Bali offers a sense of mysticism, allure and revelry across its diverse microclimates. Couples who choose this locale for a honeymoon (and it’s been popular since the 2010s) should spend several days across the island, from the lush Ubud to upscale Nusa Dua.

The bar starts off high in Bali, but a luxury hotelier once shared with me her pick of COMO Shambhala Estate as the “most impressive” property in the world. Bali brings world-class hospitality. From $605, COMOHotels.com Couples are blessed with a variety of world-class options on the island too, including the exclusive, all-suite Raffles Bali, located along a quiet strip overlooking Jimbaran Bay. From $1,100, Raffles.com

The Pearl of the Pacific is certainly a mustinclude for our 30th anniversary issue. For decades, couples have been flocking to this dreamlike destination, which is also the birthplace of honeymooners’ idyllic overwater bungalows. The volcanic island’s surroundings— a variety of shades of blue against powdery white sand—creates an irresistible ambience.

Where to Book: One of the most acclaimed resorts in the region is the Four Seasons Bora Bora, known for its dramatic sunset views of Mount Otemanu. Here, the overwater-bungalow concept is upgraded with private plunge pools and glass floors for viewing the sea life below. From $1,800, FourSeasons.com

Cappadocia, Türkiye

The land of fairy chimneys is today one of the most recognizable and romantic choices for couples, especially those who desire a far-flung adventure surrounded by dramatic landscapes and experiences to match. The biggest misconception to address is that Cappadocia is not a small town, but a whole region. With an astounding 200-plus underground cities (which provided sanctuary to early Christians fleeing persecution from Roman soldiers), this historical treasure still retains its steeped lore. Fun fact: Cappadocia is also the preeminent destination in the world to hop on a hot-air balloon.

Where to Book: A morning rooftop breakfast is a must for those who want to see balloons dance along the horizon of Göreme at sunrise. Arguably the best option for an immersive stay is the Argos Cappadocia, a converted monastery perched above Pigeon Valley that’s comprised entirely of suites—modern evidence of the old meeting the new. Its breathtaking gardens and trails blend into the arid and ancient landscape; don’t miss a post-hike dip in the property’s outdoor pool or its underground spa pools. From $354, ArgosInCappadocia.com

Cape Town, South Africa

What other cities lack, Cape Town brings in terms of sweeping views and culture. Lion’s Head is among the world’s most scenic places for couples to enjoy a hike, while Table Mountain is an appealing option for a picnic. The nearby winelands add an alternative, experiential layer to the itinerary as well with famed regions like Stellenbosch, fueling a top farm-to-table scene.

Where to Book: The recently reopened Cape Grace, an art collector’s dream for its custom-designed furnishings and creations solely by African artists, is a luxury escape for couples and guests. Its panoramic views of Table Mountain are a bonus backdrop, especially for destination weddings. From $1,400, CapeGrace.com

Cotswolds

and Cornwall, England

The Anglo-Saxon term “wolds” signifies rolling hills, and romance certainly abounds for those who select a bucolic storybook getaway to the Cotswolds. Here you’ll find sleepy local towns with homes topped by thatched roofs (as though you’re in a 19th-century Jane Austen novel), as well as neighboring estates and castles steeped in history.

Where to Book: A unique, all-inclusive option for honeymooners is the Britannic Explorer, A

Belmond Train, which traverses the countryside of the area as well as nearby Wales and Cornwall. Its three-night journeys take voyagers to various spots that aren’t otherwise easily accessible; at night, they can enjoy a luxurious dinner and wind down in their lush sleeper cabins. From $9,500, Belmond.com

The five-star Ellenborough Park, a 15th-century manor estate, is another refined choice for destination weddings. From $365, EllenboroughPark.com

Chobe, Botswana

Safari is a romantic experience in its own right, but all the more when you and your partner seemingly have an entire park to yourselves. In Botswana, the volume of vehicles is far lower compared with counterparts across other regions of Africa, increasing the odds of the rarest sightings known to the bush (think endangered African wild dogs, baby elephants goofing around with their herds and lions enjoying their morning breakfast).

Where to Book: Actors Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton eloped at the famed Chobe Game Lodge, the only five-star property within Chobe National Park, bordering Namibia. From $1,200, Chobe.com

And when in Botswana, we highly recommend a visit to the newly r enovated Savute Safari Lodge (a favorite of this editor’s). From $1,400, DesertDelta.com

French Riviera

Medieval towns, provincial shutters and an azure coastline that lives up to the “Côte d’Azur” name are just a few of the features that make this one of the most glorious and coveted wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world. Fun fact: Fictional character Christian Grey honeymooned in the region.

Where to Book: The sprawling South of France is full of globally top-rated hotels, including the architecturally iconic Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat. From $1,800, FourSeasons.com

Another luxury option is La Réserve Ramatuelle, a Leading Hotel of the World, in swanky Saint-Tropez. From $1,250, LHW.com

Koh Samui, Thailand

Couples desiring enrichment, a deep understanding of local culture and delicious dishes combined with beautiful beaches should consider this island. Koh Samui is a luxe choice for those who need respite from urban areas like Bangkok, though most travel agents recommend couples start with the temples of Chiang Mai in the interior, before making their way to the lapping waves of beachfront properties facing the geographical wonders of the island.

Where to Book: The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui and the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort were both filming locations for season 3 of The White Lotus. Couples will find the five-star resorts in mainland Thailand, though still swanky, to be more affordable with the same level of exceptional service. From $1,500, FourSeasons.com; from $297, Anantara.com

Lake Como, Italy

In recent years this has become a magnet destination for American weddings, especially those booking recognizable local villas like the Villa del Balbianello, not to be confused with the equally recognizable Villa Balbiano, among others. Framed by the Italian Alps, the Y-shape lake and its surrounding villages transport

visitors back in time to the bygone era of Slim Aarons’ society photography. The boating culture, however, still prevails to this day.

Where to Book: The familiar greenand-white umbrellas of Passalacqua are the moment. From $1,200, Passalacqua.it

Kyoto, Japan

Those who’ve been to Kyoto rave about its beauty, from the bamboo-lined trails to the sightseeing along the Ōi-gawa River. Spring is the most idyllic time for blooming romance, due to the cherry blossoms that explode along the riverbanks. Onsens (communal hot springs) are a can’t-miss, made even better with your plus-one.

Where to Book: Hoshinoya, a converted ryokan (Japanese inn) located in Arashiyama, is considered one of the city’s best. From $400, HoshinoResorts.com

Lisbon, Portugal

This is the city of landmarks and divine pastéis de nata (egg tarts). Couples must take in locations like São Jorge (Saint George’s) Castle, an ancient fortress perched atop the highest hill in the city, as well as other monuments such as Belém Tower. If you’re open to a scenic drive, the nearby fairy-tale town of Sintra is a sightseeing gem.

Where to Book: The AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado, a converted former-military-complex-turnedhotel, dates back to the 18th century and is conveniently located on the peaceful and historical Praça do Município. From $200, AlmaLusaHotels.com

Maldives

Over the last 20 years, one destination has emerged as the honeymoon locus of the Indian Ocean: this archipelagic country of nearly 1,200 islands, which epitomizes romance and relaxation. It does an exceptional job of catering to newlyweds with its overwater-bungalow options; some resorts even have underwater rooms featuring views of manta rays, fish, sharks and other wildlife.

Where to Book: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, is a good call for savvy couples, especially those wanting to stretch their Marriott points. The scenic escape has a variety of modern overwater villas and sunset dining experiences for an unforgettable luxe getaway. From $1,600, RitzCarlton.com

Punta Mita, Mexico

This double-gated, super-private peninsula along the Riviera Nayarit offers splendid beauty, luxury and accessibility to nature: Think turtle-hatching and whale-watching in season. Wellness-driven couples will connect with their root chakra here through activities like boating (the stunning Marietas Islands are a quick boat ride away), surfing and more. For the rest, the pool at the Four Seasons Punta Mita features incredible people-watching.

Where to Book: If your goal is to relax within an ultra-luxury allinclusive, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, is well recommended. On its all-encompassing menu of services and activities: temazcal (rebirth ritual) ceremonies, daily spa treatments, sound baths

overlooking the Pacific and stargazing in private plunge pools. Tequila or mezcal tastings— especially combined with the barbacoa tacos prepared by the resort’s talented chef—heighten the senses. From $3,950, FourSeasons.com

Paris, France

Marrakesh, Morocco

The scent of spice vendors in the souks and sun-dappled orange trees lining the riads of Marrakesh are just a few sensory experiences for lovebirds yearning for a nontraditional getaway. The Red City combines French and Moroccan influences through its architectural gems and gardens, while remaining true to itself as a unique destination in every way.

Where to Book: Wind down after a busy day of exploration with a hammam treatment and indulgent meals at the top-rated Royal Mansour. From $1,700, RoyalMansour.com

The City of Light, Love and Croissants. What’s not to appreciate? Paris is the rare place that appeals to all five senses, beginning with the beauty of its architectural structures and streets. Variety is found across its arrondissements (districts), while the café and fine-dining culture—along with the palpable soft lighting that strikes the iron balconies from sunrise to sunset—appeals to all generations.

Where to Book: The Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, is the height of luxury stays in the city. The 18th-century baroque palace is today a 124-key hotel that borders the Place de la Concorde, among other landmarks. From $2,000, RosewoodHotels.com

For a more boutique-hotel feel, the Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet’s, marked by its chic red windows, is another classic option for couples. From $1,300, HotelsBarriere.com

Riviera Maya, Mexico

There’s something for everyone along this coastline, but discerning couples acknowledge its natural beauty first. Cenotes and the nearby islands feel a world away from major cities across the US, yet it’s an easy flight to international airports in Cancún and Tulum. It’s what makes this enclave highly soughtout for honeymoons and destination weddings alike.

Where to Book: If pampering and peace are your key words, the Etéreo Auberge embodies both. Each room is assigned a guia (guide), who can help book everything from dinner reservations at Che Che (the Japanese-Mexican restaurant on-site) to a much-needed massage at Sana Spa, with its cenoteinspired pool. From $1,200, Auberge.com

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

This storybook destination is an underrated and unrivaled choice for couples who enjoy cultural escapes. At the center of town stands the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, which is fortuitously shaped like a wedding cake. Bougainvillea lines the walls of homes that mingle with irresistible sights, sounds and smells.

Where to Book: The Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is the epitome of a stay in a luxury hacienda, while providing a high standard of privacy and service. From $410, RosewoodHotels.com

Santorini, Greece

This is the type of place that should be penitent for its beauty; no place on earth can replicate its white-facade homes, ornate blue roofs and sweeping lookouts. While sunset is the island’s specialty, one could argue that quieter sunrise walks along its tiny corridors and alleyways overlooking the crisp Aegean are an equally dreamy choice for couples.

Seychelles

The geological marvel of the hulking granite rocks adds a moviequality layer to the pristine, pellucid waters surrounding this archipelago. Beautiful beaches—of which Anse Source d’Argent is arguably the most iconic—and swaying palm trees are abundant across the islands. Most people stay on Mahé, where the main resorts are located.

Where to Book: The Andronis family of hotels is the pinnacle of experiences in Oia. Couples will want to post up at the luxurious Andronis Arcadia, while weddings should be held at the Andronis Luxury Suites for the wow factor of the views and the dining experience. From $700, Andronis.com

Where to Book: Couples have plenty of options, including the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island and the top-rated Cheval Blanc Seychelles on Mahé. From $1,800, Hilton.com; from $1,700, ChevalBlanc.com

St. Lucia

Unlike its Caribbean counterparts, this island carries a sultry undertone, welcoming couples with serene beaches tucked amid the commanding volcanic Pitons. Couples can find everything from an arduous hike along the Tet Paul Nature Trail to soothing mud baths in Soufrière, along with rare honeymoon-tailored resorts.

Spanning 620-plus miles along the western coast of the Republic of Türkiye, this destination offers a diverse topography, from the pine-tree-lined terrain of Marmaris to the soft, sandy beaches of Bodrum. What makes the turquoise expanse especially romantic is that it has yet to endure the heavy volume of overtourism that better-known Mediterranean locales often face during peak season. Here, you’ll find seclusion with the same level of splendor.

Where to Book: Jade Mountain and Sugar Beach are the biggest players for romance on the island, with distinctive differences. We recommend the architectural feat of Jade Mountain for honeymoons—its open-air villas and private plunge pools were made for star-crossed lovers. From $1,575, JadeMountain.com

In contrast, the luxurious Sugar Beach has been lauded as an ideal destinationwedding resort. From $950, ViceroyHotelsAndResorts.com

Where to Book:

Discerning types throughout Türkiye and most of Europe know D Maris Bay. Ensconced between the Aegean and the Mediterranean along the Datça Peninsula, this unobtrusive property maintains its discretion and privacy due to its sheltered location. Those who know of it seek it out, many arriving via helipad or yacht. Highlights for couples include an outpost of the famed beach club La Guérite, multiple powdery goldensand beaches, restaurant options ranging from Zuma to Aurora Capri, and its pinnacle aesthetic moment: a partnership with Christian Dior at the pool. From $425, DMarisBay.com

USA

Central Coast, California

One drive up or down the scenic stretches of Highway 1 will make you reconsider your life choices. Couples who enjoy panoramic vistas and drives (sans cellular networks at times), as well as misty Jurassic views, also get their choice of farm-to-table options and wineries in Santa Ynez. This sun-dappled region is a popular choice for destination weddings, while couples can easily retreat to the resorts of Big Sur, tucked above the Redwoods and the glittering Pacific.

Where to Book: The celeb-beloved San Ysidro Ranch is one of the most acclaimed properties in the country for weddings. From $2,900, SanYsidroRanch.com

Honeymooners may also enjoy the solitude and tranquil setting of Alila Ventana Big Sur. From $1,800, VentanaBigSur.com

Colorado Rockies

The snowcapped peaks and winter locales present an ambience and untainted beauty that few places can replicate. Sporty couples will relish its slopes, followed by an enriching evening of après, dinner and downtime at the hotel spa. The scene-y types will be excellent hosts for guests. Summer in Aspen is a delicious time to visit—sans crowds and still with plenty to do.

Where to Book: The muchanticipated White Elephant Aspen opens in spring 2026—perfect for couples who want to secure buyouts or book a suite for a romantic getaway. From $700, WhiteElephantAspen.com

Coastal New England

Picture this: you and your S.O., at the height of summer, biking past sun-soaked hydrangea bushes and the manicured hedges of homes dotting the rugged Atlantic shoreline. This region offers myriad possibilities across weddings and honeymoons, including the famed Gilded Age mansions of Newport, Rhode Island; the sleepy charm of Bar Harbor, Maine; and the unrivaled sense of place found on the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts. Don’t forget: The world (at least up here) is your oyster, and the best part is that you get to enjoy it with your lobster.

Where to Book: Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is experiencing a surge of interest due to its proximity to a certain impending American royal wedding. From $550, OceanHouseRI.com

The historic Hotel Viking—once referred to as the “Living Room of Newport”—will reopen to much anticipation this spring for weddings and stays. From $350, HotelViking.com

There’s a reason this pristine island is a magnet for honeymooners: It boasts untainted natural beauty, from the volcanic trails of Kapalua to the never-ending spectacle of Mount Haleakalā, conveniently located along the famed Road to Hana. It’s the perfect blend of activity, adventure and top-rated luxury in the US. Plus, it’s hard to go wrong with a wedding when the best venues have unobstructed views of palm trees and the soft, blue ocean.

Where to Book: How White Lotus season 1 of any couple to check into the beloved Four Seasons Maui in Wailea. From $905, FourSeasons.com

Miami, Florida

This sultry town brings the heat. Miamians don’t settle for less than the best, and that most certainly extends both to the ornate and extravagant details of destination weddings and to couples heading south for mini-moons.

Where to Book: The city’s most iconic property is Alan Faena’s Faena Miami Beach, with its red-andwhite umbrellas set against the crystalline sea; the art collection alone, including Damien Hirst’s “Gone, but Not Forgotten” (featuring a gold-gilded woolly mammoth), will earn the appreciation of the more cultured types. Its full-service private beach is a hidden treasure as well—if you’re lucky enough, you may even swim among manatees. From $1,102, Faena.com

New York, New York

The drive out to Page feels like traversing another planet: The red-tinted buttes of the surrounding landscape will fuel the otherworldly imagination of any aspiring intergalactic traveler. One of the

region’s biggest attractions is none other than the various slot canyons (mainly the Upper and Lower Antelope). During the summer months, the deep blue of Lake Powell set against the aged rocks offers yet another

dramatic perspective for an intimate experience with the earth.

Where to Book: The esteemed Amangiri in Canyon Point is just a 30-minute drive from Page, and a world away

In a sprawling metropolis like NYC, each neighborhood holds its own charm. The city is especially romantic twice a year: during the holiday months, when the entire five boroughs light up; and in the fall, when the leaves turn and Central Park becomes a sea of marigold and greens.

Where to Book: Couples are spoiled for choice in this town. Those who want a quintessential and classic New York wedding or honeymoon should consider the Lowell or the Carlyle (the late Princess Diana’s favorite hotel in the city) on the Upper East Side. From $996, TheLowell.com; from $992, RosewoodHotels .com

To-be-weds who prefer panoramic views of the skyline and a hip vibe can’t go wrong with the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. From $289, WytheHotel.com

from any other resort in the US. In fact, couples opt for this property as a stand-alone destination for both weddings and honeymoons, solely for the unparalleled prestige and privacy. From $4,500, Aman.com

1996

Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes star as the titular star-crossed lovers in Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet, which features a Gothic church wedding.

2001 From Friends to soulmates: Monica Geller and Chandler Bing finally marry in NYC.

2002

Yamas! After a little scheming and a lot of family drama, Toula Portokalos and Ian Miller exchange vows in, well, a big fat Greek wedding.

2011

To this day, couples still find inspiration in the ethereal forest wedding between mortal Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen from the fourth Twilight Saga installment, Breaking Dawn—Part 1

2009

After years of stolen glances and passed notes, The Office lovebirds Jim Halpert and Pam Beesly sneak off and exchange vows on a Niagara Falls tour boat to escape the shenanigans of their Dunder Mifflin coworkers.

2009

Emma Allen (Anne Hathaway) and Liv Lerner (Kate Hudson) duke it out as frenemies with weddings scheduled for the same date at NYC’s Plaza Hotel in Bride Wars.

2008

Although she doesn’t meet Big at the altar, there’s no denying Carrie Bradshaw’s Vivienne Westwood dress in Sex and the City (the movie)—styled with Manolos, of course—is one of the most memorable gowns ever.

2008

ABBA serves as the soundtrack for Mamma Mia!, a musical about Sophie Sheridan and Sky Rymand’s wedding—which actually turns into a wedding for her mom, Donna, and long-lost love Sam Carmichael (one of Sophie’s three possible dads).

30/ 30 VISION

Hindsight is 20/20 … or in our case, 30/30. Take a walk with us down memory lane to relive the sweetest, funniest and most iconic pop-culture wedding moments from the past three decades.

By Sarah Hanlon

2018

Jon M. Chu directs Crazy Rich Asians, which features a wedding with a thin pool of water covering the aisle, lush greenery and an elaborate tiered dress accented with gold Swarovski crystals.

2025

The world is changed for good with a glimpse of the whimsical wedding dress Glinda wears to *almost* marry Fiyero in the second Wicked movie, also directed by Chu.

2020

Even Lady Whistledown didn’t predict the cultural impact Daphne and Simon’s Bridgerton wedding would have, fueling a rise in the regencycore aesthetic.

2020

Ew, David? More like yes, David. In the Schitt’s Creek finale, David Rose marries Patrick Brewer. David’s mother, Moira, almost steals the show in her papal officiant ensemble.