As we look toward September, with summer soon behind us, now is an ideal time to take stock of the wedding trends that are shaping celebrations across Scotland and beyond. Our Events Manager at Rosebery Steading has noted several captivating trends that are emerging and likely to continue into 2025. Here’s a closer look at what’s trending in the world of weddings...

Audio Guestbooks

Imagine being able to relive the heartfelt messages from your special day for years to come. A rise in the use of audio guestbooks makes this dream a reality.

Moving away from traditional written messages, couples are now opting for voice recordings from their guests to truly capture the raw emotions and genuine feelings of loved ones, adding a unique layer to wedding memories… Just make sure your guests don’t have too many glasses of bubbles before they leave the message!

Smaller, Intimate Ceremonies

Here at Rosebery Estates, we have seen a noticeable shift towards smaller, more intimate weddings with couples choosing to celebrate with only their closest family and friends. This approach allows couples to spend more meaningful time with their nearest and dearest, rather than spreading their time too thin. A reduced guest list is often less overwhelming for couples, allowing newlyweds to relax and celebrate with those who matter the most.

One of our Steading couples shared, “Being able to accommodate up to 28 guests meant we were able to spend time with our families and closest friends which was really special.’

Image credit: Ross Alexander

Informal Dress Codes

The trend towards relaxed and informal dress codes is gaining momentum. While traditional black-tie attire will always remain timeless, it’s always nice to see guests embrace comfort and personal style.

We have seen everything from vibrant, colourful ensembles to casual chic looks, all adding to a comfortable and fun atmosphere. With the sun finally making an appearance, the Steading team has loved the recent colourful, summery attire adorned by guests along with quintessential sunnies and pattered fans.

Minimalist and Chic Styling

Inspired by the minimalist 1990s Calvin Klein aesthetic, this trend emphasises clean lines, simple statement pieces, and understated decor. For couples who appreciate elegance and simplicity, this approach creates a sophisticated ambience that speaks volumes without overwhelming the senses.

Native Seasonal Florals

This year our weddings are blooming with native Scottish flowers that reflect the seasons. Couples are opting for wildflowers like heather, Scottish thistle, and bluebells, which add a rustic charm and reflect the local landscape. These blooms are often featured in bouquets, table arrangements, and even floral crowns, celebrating the natural beauty of the region.

This trend emphasises the importance of sustainability and celebrates the beauty of the local environment, reflecting a growing preference for preserving wedding flowers by drying or using resin to set these and create table tops or unique artworks

Film Photography

Nostalgia is making a comeback with the resurgence of film photography. Couples are choosing this medium for its timeless and authentic quality, capturing their wedding day with a vintage feel that adds depth and romance to photos to make them all the more memorable.

An intriguing trend we’ve noticed is the rise of dedicated wedding content creators. These undercover guests capture candid images and videos throughout the day. While this content is typically filmed for social media, the content is often a unique perspective and captures the genuine atmosphere of the wedding. Unlike traditional, posed photography, this approach provides an authentic glimpse into the day's real moments and emotions.

Image credit: Ross Alexander

Destination Venues

More couples are selecting destination venues that offer unique and picturesque settings. Whether it’s a Scottish castle like Barnbougle Castle or a rural retreat like our own rustic Rosebery Steading, these scenic locations provide breathtaking backdrops that make for an unforgettable wedding day. With on-site accommodations available, guests can fully immerse themselves in the celebration and enjoy a day to remember

Embracing Scottish Traditions

We’re seeing a resurgence in the incorporation of traditional Scottish elements into weddings such as handfasting, drinking from a quaich, and ring warming. These traditions bring a deep sense of heritage and meaning, especially in a Scottish setting, adding a communal and heartfelt touch to modern weddings.

Image credit: Ross Alexander

Alternative Wedding Cakes

Couples are getting creative with their wedding cakes - or opting out of them entirely! A growing trend is the choice of alternative desserts, such as a massive baked tart topped with fresh, seasonal fruits. Some are even forgoing a traditional cake in favour of a dessert table filled with an array of sweet treats, allowing for more personalisation and catering to unique tastes.

Food theatrics!

Traditional wedding breakfasts are no longer the norm. For example, BBQ food is emerging as a popular choice for summer weddings, especially those with a more relaxed and casual vibe. From gourmet grilled meats to fresh, vibrant salads, a BBQ adds a special touch to the reception. It’s the perfect dining experience for outdoor celebrations, like those hosted in Rosebery Steading’s spacious courtyard.

These trends highlight a shift towards creating personalised, meaningful experiences that resonate with what truly matters to each couple. As our diary for 2025 starts filling up, we’re excited to see how these summer trends will continue to evolve, making each wedding day as unique and unforgettable as the love it celebrates.

If you're planning your wedding and looking for the perfect venue to bring these trends to life, we’d love to chat with you. Get in touch with the Rosebery wedding events team to explore how we can make your dream wedding a reality.