Eesha Kulkarni

Picture this: You’re sitting with your phone, scrolling through Instagram, and your feed is flooded with stunning wedding photos, which you instantly pin on your vision boards. From breathtaking décor to dazzling outfits, every detail seems straight out of a fairytale.

As you double-tap on your favourite celebrity weddings like Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, or the iconic union of Virat and Anushka, you can’t help but wonder how much Indian wedding trends have evolved. Thanks to the power of social media and the changing mindsets of younger generations, the wedding scene in the country has undergone a remarkable transformation.

So, how much has it truly changed?

Well, hold on to your lehengas and sherwanis because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind journey through the evolving world of Indian weddings.

Influenced by global culture, movies, celebrity weddings, and technological advancements, the Indian wedding ecosystem is experiencing a rapid metamorphosis. With 25,000 respondents across 15 countries, WeddingWire India conducted a comprehensive survey to explore the evolving trends in the Indian wedding industry. Ahead, we highlight key trends that are shaping the new-age Indian wedding landscape, reflecting a fusion of tradition and modernity.

Living Together Pre-Marriage: Strengthening Bonds

Influenced by global trends, 15 percent of urban Indian couples are opting to live together before marriage. While this practice is still nascent in India compared to countries like France and Spain, it signifies a shift in societal expectations and the recognition of the importance of building a stronger bond before tying the knot.

Wedding Announcements Through Social Media: Embracing Digital Platforms

Following in the footsteps of the US and the UK, approximately 57 percent of Indians now choose to share their engagement and wedding announcements via the ubiquitous messaging platform, WhatsApp. This digital shift underscores the growing reliance on technology for seamless communication and the convenience it offers in reaching a wider network of friends and family.

Emphasis on Venues: Creating Memorable Experiences

Traditionally, Indian weddings were hosted in the intimate setting of homes. However, as guest lists shrink and couples prioritise creating unforgettable experiences, organised wedding venues such as farmhouses and banquet lawns are gaining popularity. In 2022, a staggering 56 percent of Indians opted for banquet halls, aligning with the trend seen in the US, where dedicated event spaces reign supreme. Banquet halls cater to various guest list sizes while providing comprehensive and personalised services, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the celebration.

Bride and Groom Performances

A global trend that has taken the Indian wedding scene by storm is the inclusion of couple dances. Wedding choreographers have emerged as prominent influencers, injecting vibrant energy and entertainment into ceremonies. Today, Indian couples are embracing the trend of a ‘First Dance’ during their weddings, adding a memorable touch to their special day.

Lighter-Day Weddings: Relaxed Celebrations

Influenced by Hollywood movies and celebrity weddings, Indian couples are opting for daytime ceremonies, marking a departure from the traditional evening-to-morning festivities. This shift fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, enabling guests to immerse themselves fully in the joyous celebrations. The demand for professional photography services has also surged, with 83 percent of couples hiring photographers to capture stunning moments against picturesque backdrops.

Catering Formats: European-style Dining Experiences

Inspired by global cuisines, Indian weddings are witnessing a transformation in catering formats. European-style sit-down meals featuring artisanal table set-ups have become highly sought after, particularly for intimate gatherings with close family and friends. This trend reflects a desire to offer unique dining experiences to guests.

Aesthetic Set-Up: Infusing Creativity and Inspiration

Indian couples are embracing creative and aesthetic set-ups for their weddings, drawing inspiration from global trends and Bollywood spectacles. Curated mood boards, unique themes, and inventive floral arrangements are increasingly prevalent. While Pinterest remains a popular resource globally, Instagram has emerged as the top choice for wedding inspiration in India, with 52 percent of couples utilising the platform to fuel their creative ideas.

The Bottom Line?

As global trends continue to influence the Indian wedding ecosystem, we can see that the unbridled spirit of experimentation is alive and well among new-age brides and grooms. From the growing acceptance of living together pre-marriage to digital announcements, evolving venues, choreographed couple performances, daytime ceremonies, culinary experiences, and captivating aesthetics, the Indian wedding industry is embracing change while cherishing its cultural roots. The fusion of international influences with age-old customs promises a future where Indian weddings remain a cherished celebration of love, unity, and unforgettable moments.