Indian weddings have long been known for their grandeur, breathtaking décor, luxurious venues, and vibrant celebrations. However, as wedding trends evolve, there is a noticeable shift toward smaller, more intimate weddings that still retain the extravagance associated with traditional ceremonies. With a growing focus on sustainability, technology, and personalized experiences, the Indian wedding landscape is embracing a blend of modernity and tradition in 2025. Here’s a look at the key trends shaping weddings in India for the upcoming year.
The Not-so Big Fat Indian Wedding
While the Big Fat Indian Wedding continues to be a staple, a new trend is emerging: the micro-luxury wedding. This shift, spurred in part by the pandemic, highlights a focus on quality over quantity, allowing couples to celebrate with fewer guests but still maintain the opulence associated with Indian weddings. According to Neha Wadhawan, wedding planner and co-founder of The Doli Diary, couples are now spending the same amount they would on a large wedding but focusing on a smaller, more exclusive guest list—sometimes as few as 50 guests. This allows for premium services like top-tier photographers, renowned artists, and high-end décor, making the event feel both intimate and extravagant.
A Mix of Tradition and Modernity
In 2025, Indian weddings will see a harmonious blend of traditional customs with modern influences. Reshma Ramaiah, event planner and co-founder of Resh&Co., notes that couples are embracing both cultural traditions and contemporary elements to make their weddings more personal. Brides are reimagining classic bridal entries, with some walking down the aisle solo to symbolize empowerment, or even choreographing their entrance with friends and family for added fun. These touches reflect the evolving mindset of couples, who aim to keep the essence of an Indian wedding intact while incorporating elements that represent their unique personalities.
Personalized Celebrations
Weddings in 2025 are set to be more than just celebrations; they will be a reflection of the couple’s personal journey. Akansha, creative director and partner at Dreamzkrraft, explains that weddings are becoming more about storytelling, where every detail—from the décor to the wedding favors—reflects the couple’s unique narrative. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter, Pinterest-inspired weddings. Couples are opting for personalized touches that infuse their personalities into every aspect of the event. The color palette, design elements, and even the overall vibe are intentionally curated to tell the couple’s story, making each wedding a truly unique experience.
Destination Weddings with a Personal Touch
As destination weddings continue to rise in popularity, couples are increasingly looking to their roots for inspiration. Parthip Thyagarajan, co-founder and CEO of WeddingSutra, highlights the growing trend of “wed in India” weddings, where couples are choosing less traditional locations within India, such as Rishikesh, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Coorg. This trend reflects a desire to showcase the beauty of local cultures and landscapes, and there is also a strong interest in regional Indian cuisines, which further enriches the authenticity of the celebration.
Eco-friendly Celebrations
Sustainability is becoming a key focus for many couples, as eco-conscious choices are increasingly integrated into Indian weddings. Prerika Puri, boutique wedding designer and founder of To The Aisle, shares that couples are more willing to invest in sustainable weddings, despite the higher costs. For example, at one wedding held in Gir National Park in Gujarat, the mandap (wedding altar) was made of macramé by children from an NGO, and it was later repurposed as a decorative piece in the couple’s home. Sustainable practices are now more achievable than ever, with couples opting for eco-friendly décor, locally sourced food, and waste reduction measures.
Simple Weddings in Picturesque Natural Surroundings
The trend toward outdoor weddings is gaining momentum in 2025, with couples increasingly choosing venues that showcase natural beauty. Nida Abed, a freelance wedding planner, notes that many couples are opting for scenic outdoor locations such as forests, mountains, beaches, and gardens instead of traditional indoor venues. These outdoor weddings not only minimize the environmental impact of elaborate indoor sets but also provide a stunning backdrop for a more intimate and relaxed ceremony. The simplicity of these weddings allows for personalized, eco-friendly elements such as seasonal flowers, sustainable décor, and locally sourced cuisine, making the entire experience more connected to nature.
In Conclusion
The Indian wedding scene in 2025 is evolving to reflect the changing preferences of couples. From micro-luxury weddings and personalized celebrations to destination weddings with a local twist and eco-friendly practices, the trends for the upcoming year highlight a move toward more intimate, meaningful, and sustainable celebrations. As couples increasingly prioritize personalization and sustainability, the Indian wedding industry is poised to embrace a blend of tradition and modernity, creating weddings that are as unique as the couples themselves.
