From ditching the wedding cake to having a live painter, these are the latest wedding trends

Wedding season has arrived, and while each celebration is one-of-a-kind, every couple dreams of making theirs the most enchanting of them all!

Nicola Woodgate, Weddings Executive at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, shares the latest trends and magical tips to help you craft a wedding that’s not only fresh and modern but truly unforgettable.

Live wedding painting

Elevate your celebration with the enchanting trend of live wedding painting! Artists like Danielle Jordaan arrive early on your special day, capturing the ceremony's magic in real-time on canvas.

As the night draws to a close, the completed masterpiece is unveiled, creating a timeless keepsake. 

For an added touch, some couples choose to have mini sketches or watercolour portraits made for guests to take home, ensuring the memories linger long after the event.

Flipping your flowers

Transform your dance floor into a dreamscape with the latest floral trend: cascading flower installations.

Imagine a canopy of blooms and fairy lights hanging overhead, replacing the traditional table-centered arrangements with a breathtaking overhead display.

Fairy lights continue to dazzle, with couples opting for a full-roof canopy to create a spellbinding atmosphere.

The cake is dead, long live dessert!

Bid farewell to the classic wedding cake and welcome an array of delightful mini desserts!

Swap the traditional cake for a stunning dessert table overflowing with bite-sized treats like brownies, macarons, and chocolate mousse.

For a nod to tradition, keep a small cake for the ceremonial cutting, and offer guests sweetly packaged treats to take home.

Practical wedding favours

Wedding favours are now both delightful and functional!

Many couples are choosing edible treats personalised with guests' names that double as charming place cards.

Others opt for practical mementos like bottle openers or jars of homemade pickles, ensuring that guests leave with a useful reminder of your special day.

Keep the wedding bouquet

The bouquet toss tradition has taken a sentimental turn.

Brides are increasingly choosing to keep their own bouquets as cherished keepsakes, either pressed into art or preserved in their original form.

Instead, they toss their bridesmaids' bouquets, adding a personal touch to this beloved ritual.

Say yes to the dress!

The classic ballgown is making way for modern elegance.

Detachable sleeves are becoming a favourite for their versatility and sophistication.

Meanwhile, veils are falling out of favour due to their brief use, with many brides opting for other accessories to complement their look.

A fond farewell to the infinity dress

Gone are the days of matching bridesmaid dresses.

Today, each bridesmaid dons a dress that reflects her unique style and figure, adding a touch of individuality and creativity to the celebration.

A long 'kuier' & private vow exchange

Pre-wedding festivities are on the rise, with couples hosting themed events like 70s nights or wildlife safaris the night before the big day.

These gatherings create a fun and memorable experience for out-of-town guests.

Additionally, intimate vow exchanges before the ceremony are gaining popularity, allowing couples to share heartfelt words privately. 

Some couples also choose to exchange letters on the wedding day to calm their nerves and deepen their connection.

Mediterranean vibes

In the KZN Midlands Meander area, Mediterranean-inspired decor is making waves.

Tables are adorned with blue and white accents, and vibrant bougainvillea adds a touch of romance.

Alternatively, modern minimalist themes with sleek black and white decor are also popular, offering a chic and contemporary aesthetic.