Our top 2026 wedding trends for an unforgettable celebration

As we look ahead to 2026, weddings are set to become more personal, immersive, and unforgettable than ever. Couples are moving away from one-size-fits-all celebrations, instead embracing hyper-personalised experiences that reflect their unique story. From bold colour palettes to interactive dining, multi-look outfits, and sustainable décor, the year ahead promises weddings that are as dynamic as the couples themselves.

Whether you’re drawn to the latest 2026 wedding trends Vogue has spotlighted or you’re looking to incorporate meaningful cultural traditions into your big day, this guide will help you craft a celebration that feels authentically yours.

Personality to the front

We predict that 2026 weddings will be all about identity and individuality, with stringent traditions falling away in recent years to allow for a wider scope and more creative inspiration. Couples are infusing every element of their big day with personal touches, from bespoke vows and curated playlists to décor that tells their story. The focus has shifted from following trends to creating something that feels genuinely meaningful.

At Nottingham Venues, including the East Midlands Conference Centre and the historic Trent Building, our versatile spaces provide a blank canvas for creative styling. Whether you envision vibrant jewel tones, rich earth hues, or dramatic florals, our venues adapt effortlessly to your vision. For couples planning Asian weddings, the East Midlands Conference Centre offers exclusive use for up to 500 guests, accommodating traditional Mandap ceremonies and cultural décor with ease. Learn more about our Asian wedding venues.

Industry experts agree that personalisation is paramount. As featured in Vogue’s guide to planning a wedding in 2026, celebrity planners emphasise the importance of building a wedding that reflects the couple’s unique journey, ensuring every decision feels purposeful and authentic. 

Sustainability and eco-friendly celebrations

Sustainability and eco-conscious choices have long been central to modern weddings, with couples set to prioritise environmental friendliness in 2026 from biodegradable confetti and locally sourced ingredients to rented or preloved décor. These thoughtful choices allow you to celebrate without compromise.

Nottingham Venues supports this approach wholeheartedly, with extensive sustainability accreditations making us the perfect eco-conscious wedding partner. Our flexible arrangements allow couples to bring in their preferred caterers, incorporate sustainable décor elements, and make environmentally friendly choices throughout their celebration.

2026 wedding colour trends

The 2026 wedding colour trends are all about bold, expressive palettes that reflect your personality. Think vibrant jewel tones like emerald and sapphire, zesty citrus shades such as tangerine and lemon, and rich earth tones like terracotta and ochre. These confident colours move away from the muted, neutral palettes of previous years, instead helping you to make a real statement of individuality.

At Nottingham Venues, these colours can be woven throughout your wedding, from florals and table settings to bridesmaids’ dresses and stationery, creating a cohesive and unforgettable celebration. The key is choosing colours that feel personal rather than purely on-trend, ensuring your wedding truly reflects your story.

2026 wedding flower trends

Floral arrangements are becoming more dramatic and sculptural in 2026, incorporating both fresh and dried textures for depth and interest. Couples embracing 2026 wedding flower trends are using statement blooms like orchids, proteas, and vibrant seasonal flowers to create unforgettable focal points, whether as ceremony backdrops, reception centrepieces, or bridal bouquets.

Our flexible spaces at Nottingham Venues allow full creative freedom to bring these floral visions to life, working with your chosen florist to create something truly spectacular.

Fashion, beauty, and bold styling

Multi-look outfits for brides and grooms are becoming a staple, with separate ensembles for the ceremony, reception, and after-party allowing couples to express different facets of their style throughout the day. Bridesmaids and groomsmen are embracing mix-and-match coordinated styles for a contemporary twist that allows individual expression within a cohesive look.

Natural, glowing makeup with subtle highlights, faux freckles, and glossy lips are trending in 2026, enhancing natural beauty without overshadowing it. Nottingham Venues’ elegant spaces, including the Conference Theatre for ceremonies of up to 250 guests and the Banqueting Suite for up to 500, provide the perfect backdrop for these fashion-forward celebrations.

Experiential entertainment and food

Weddings are evolving from passive events to immersive experiences, so expect interactive dining stations, live bands, comfortable lounge areas, and unique entertainment options that keep guests engaged throughout the celebration. Signature cocktails, gourmet food stations, and experiential menus allow couples to tell their story through every course.

Nottingham Venues accommodates this trend seamlessly, supporting external caterers and providing versatile spaces for every stage of your celebration, from intimate ceremonies to lively receptions.

 2026 wedding stationery trends

Wedding stationery is moving beyond standard invitations to become part of the overall narrative. The 2026 wedding stationery trends focus on bespoke designs, vibrant colours, and personalised touches that reflect the couple’s style and story from the very first impression guests receive.

From save-the-dates that hint at your colour palette to table plans and signage that tie your theme together, Nottingham Venues can accommodate themed stationery elements that enhance the look and feel of your wedding day. 

Weekend-long celebrations

Couples are expanding beyond single-day weddings to weekend-long experiences. Welcome dinners, post-wedding brunches, or outdoor activities create an enjoyable rhythm of celebration rather than a single whirlwind day, allowing more quality time with loved ones who have travelled to share in the occasion.

With on-site accommodation at The Orchard Hotel for 203 guests, Nottingham Venues ensures convenience and comfort for everyone. Friends and family can fully immerse themselves in the festivities without worrying about travel logistics.

Celebrating cultural heritage: Asian weddings

Asian wedding trends continue to evolve, blending traditional elements with contemporary touches. At Nottingham Venues, we have extensive experience hosting weddings from a wide range of communities, cultures, and faiths. Our blank canvas spaces allow for traditional décor, Mandap ceremonies, and cultural celebrations that honour every aspect of your heritage. Discover our dedicated wedding venues to see how we can bring your vision to life.

Create your own, unforgettable day

Weddings in 2026 are bold, personal, and impossible to replicate. Whether you’re planning a culturally rich Asian wedding or a modern, immersive celebration, Nottingham Venues offers the perfect canvas. With expert event planners, versatile spaces, and on-site accommodation, your dream wedding can become a reality.

Contact our team today to explore how we can bring your unique vision to life.

FAQs

1. What types of cultural weddings do you accommodate?

Our venues host weddings from a wide range of communities, cultures, and faiths, with extensive experience in traditional Asian ceremonies and celebrations.

2. Can we use our own caterers?

Yes, external caterers are welcome. We can assist with practicalities to ensure a smooth experience on your day.

3. Can we customise the décor to reflect our cultural traditions?

Absolutely. Our blank canvas spaces allow full flexibility for decorations, lighting, and layouts to reflect your heritage and personal style.

4. Are outdoor spaces available for ceremonies or receptions?

Yes, our landscaped grounds offer beautiful outdoor options for photography and smaller ceremonies.

5. How accessible are the venues for guests travelling from afar?

Nottingham Venues are just 2 miles from the city centre, near the M1 and East Midlands Airport, with complimentary parking and EV charging points.

6. Do you have facilities for prayer or religious observances?

Yes, dedicated spaces are available to accommodate prayer and other religious practices.

7. What is the maximum guest capacity?

The Banqueting Suite can host up to 500 guests, while the Conference Theatre accommodates up to 250 for ceremonies.