Louisiana Couples Are Altering Wedding Ceremonies in 2026

(KTDY) - The 2026 wedding season is about to be in full swing, and if you attend a wedding in Louisiana this year, you may notice that a few things are missing from the ceremony and reception.

Every year, wedding trends change, and some things disappear while others remain the same. For example, the decor at weddings in 2026 does not resemble that of weddings in 2010. Times and things change.

I recently came across an article in Vogue that highlighted what will be 'in' and what will be 'out' in wedding trends in 2026.

For example, couples are now choosing to exchange their vows in private, creating a more intimate setting. So, if you attend a wedding in 2026, you may not witness the couple exchange their vows before their guests, and it is by design.

Something else that couples are eliminating from their wedding day is photo booths. Now, more couples are investing in film to document their guests at their reception. In addition to that, you may notice that the decor at weddings and receptions is much simpler; you will no longer see elaborate decor at some events.

Another trend being phased out of receptions, according to Vogue, is strict timelines, and I have personally experienced this while DJing at receptions. While some brides like to stick to a strict timeline, more are going with a more relaxed flow, and they say it helps eliminate stress on their "Big Day."

As for what is in at weddings in 2026, the old-fashioned wedding cake is back, and bakers locally have already noticed this new trend. Plus, couples are now opting for premixed cocktails, so guests don't have to stand in line all night for a drink.

Hey, speaking of getting drinks, venues with multi-sided bars will have an advantage as brides are electing to host their receptions in venues that can better serve their guests, according to Vogue.

Another wedding trend you may notice in 2026 is that couples are now electing to say "I Do" in their hometown. Expensive destination weddings are being phased out.

Speaking of things being phased out, brides are also electing not to have their new husbands remove the garter from their leg while everyone looks on. Brides tell me that it's just inappropriate, and now they feel more comfortable, just handing it to their husband before the ceremonial toss.

All of these changes relate to trends and to cost-cutting. It's expensive to host a wedding, and we see couples having to decide what they want and what they do not need on their wedding day.

So, the next time you're at a wedding in 2026, see if you notice anything new or different about the ceremony and reception. Oh, one more thing, brides are now also requesting that the music at their receptions stay "upbeat," whcih means fewer slow songs are being played by DJs and bands. Therefore, when you do hear a slow song, take advantage of the dance.