The State of Weddings in 2025 with Brittny Drye: Inclusivity, Trends, and Gen Z

What Does “Equality-Minded” Really Mean in the Wedding Industry?

The term “equality-minded” goes beyond just being LGBTQ+ friendly — it reflects a deeper, more authentic approach to inclusivity that’s embedded in a person’s values and how they run their business. While many vendors and publications are quick to label themselves as inclusive because they’ve worked with a same-sex couple or use the right hashtags during Pride Month, being equality-minded is something else entirely. It means actively educating yourself on diversity, using inclusive language and imagery in your marketing, offering equitable HR policies, and giving back to the communities you claim to support. It’s not about a checklist — it’s a mindset.

Unfortunately, the wedding industry is still deeply heteronormative. From vendor offerings to media coverage, so much of what’s produced caters to a bride marrying a groom — and only shifts momentarily during Pride Month. That’s when rainbow-washing tends to show up, where brands spotlight a single LGBTQ+ wedding just to appear progressive, only to go back to their default marketing strategy for the other eleven months of the year.

For couples, this kind of surface-level inclusivity can feel disingenuous — even exploitative. It reduces their love stories to representation points rather than celebrating them with the depth and dignity they deserve. It’s the reason so many same-sex couples notice when their wedding photos are only shared during June, or when media coverage feels more like tokenism than celebration. True equality-mindedness means consistently centering all kinds of love stories — not just when it's convenient or trending.

What are some common oversights or missteps that wedding pros are making when we're trying to be inclusive?

One of the most common missteps wedding professionals make when trying to be inclusive is forgetting to check why they’re doing it in the first place. Are you showing up for the LGBTQ+ community because you genuinely want them to feel seen, supported, and celebrated? Or are you doing it to make your brand look inclusive?

It all comes down to intention. Authentic inclusivity isn’t about your image — it’s about community. For example, one longtime advertiser recently asked where else they could advertise to connect with LGBTQ+ couples. Not because it was Pride Month or for a quick engagement boost, but because they truly wanted to show up for the community and let queer couples know they’re welcome. That kind of outreach — one that centers the couple and their experience — is exactly the kind of authentic marketing that resonates.

When you lead with sincerity and empathy, everything changes. It shifts the focus from “look at how inclusive we are” to “we’re here for you, always.” And that’s what creates real trust. Inclusive marketing isn’t just about using the right terms or posting the right images — it’s about backing up your values with intentional action that places the couple, not the brand, at the center.

How Can You Make a Wedding More Inclusive?

One of the easiest and most effective ways to make your wedding more inclusive is to be intentional with your language — especially for anyone holding a microphone. That includes your officiant, DJ, emcee, and anyone giving a toast. Often without realizing it, people use gendered phrases like, “Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated,” or “Ladies, grab your men and get on the dance floor.” These outdated expressions can be easily swapped for more inclusive alternatives like, “Friends and family,” or “Everyone, let’s hit the dance floor!”

It’s not just about avoiding offense — it’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, whether you think you know who your guests are or not. Remember: not everyone is out, and not everyone is comfortable sharing their identity with others. Making inclusive choices from the start removes the pressure on your guests to “explain” themselves and shows you’re thinking beyond assumptions.

Beyond language, rethinking wedding traditions is another great place to start. Consider opening up the bouquet toss to everyone or removing it entirely. Avoid assigning dress codes based on gender, like “men in suits, women in dresses.” Replace terms like “bridal party” with “wedding party,” and call your prep spaces “getting ready rooms” instead of “bridal suites” — especially if your couple doesn’t include a bride.

These might seem like small changes, but they can have a huge impact.

Inclusivity also applies to the behind-the-scenes experience. For venues and wedding professionals, that means reviewing your entire client journey — from the first Instagram impression to your contact form and contracts. If you’ve been using the same systems since 2010, chances are there’s some outdated (and potentially gendered) language in there. Run through the entire process as if you were a client. Ask yourself: Are the forms inclusive? Does the language assume a bride and a groom? Are your emails and templates written for one kind of couple only?

Even if you are inclusive in your values and social media, your automated systems may still be sending the wrong message. A quick audit could reveal easy ways to make your business feel more welcoming and affirming — without needing a complete overhaul.

Ultimately, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about being thoughtful and proactive. Small, intentional updates show that you’re not just accepting of all couples — you’re actively advocating for their comfort and joy.

What Advice Do You Have for LGBTQ+ Couples (and the Vendors Supporting Them)?

One of the most important pieces of advice for LGBTQ+ couples planning a wedding is this: surround yourself with a vendor team that truly understands and respects the nuances of queer weddings. You should never feel like someone’s “queer guinea pig.” It is not your responsibility to teach your vendors how to be inclusive or correct their missteps. You're planning a wedding — not offering a crash course in DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).

That’s why finding experienced, equality-minded professionals is key. This is especially true for wedding planners, who often act as both your advocate and your gatekeeper. A great planner will review contracts, spot outdated or gendered language (like “bride and groom”), and handle communication with venues and vendors on your behalf. They can help prevent those frustrating and hurtful micro-moments before they ever reach you.

This extends to the entire vendor team. For example, floral designers might automatically include packages with a bouquet and boutonnière — which might not align with your wedding at all. Photographers, officiants, even rental companies might unknowingly use templates or structures that assume a heteronormative couple.

Having to correct those assumptions over and over again can be exhausting and hurtful. It’s not something you should have to navigate on top of the usual wedding stress. That’s why working with a team who already gets it — who has done the work, understands the landscape, and is truly inclusive in both values and practices — is not just helpful, it’s essential.

What Wedding Trends Are You Seeing That Feel Fresh and Exciting?

One trend that continues to grow and spark excitement is the focus on guest experience. Couples are putting more thought into how their wedding feels for everyone attending. It’s not just about pretty florals or a great playlist anymore — it’s about creating immersive, joy-filled moments that surprise and delight guests throughout the night. Think unexpected entertainment, interactive food installations, or unique lounge setups that make people feel like they’re part of something truly special.

Another design trend that’s come back in a big way is drapery. But not the dated, one-size-fits-all look of the past. Today’s event designers are using fabric to sculpt, layer, and transform spaces in creative and luxurious ways. Drapery is becoming a texture-forward design tool — used to soften spaces, add dimension, and create artful installations that feel elegant and fresh. Much like how balloon installations got reinvented a few years ago, fabric is having its moment again.

Perhaps the most exciting shift, though, is how couples are rethinking the structure of their wedding day entirely. Instead of sticking to the traditional format, more people are creating timelines that reflect their personalities and priorities. That might mean private vows followed by a celebration, or an intimate dinner with close family before a larger party later in the evening. It’s all about curating moments with intention and making sure each part of the day feels meaningful — whether that’s sitting down for a heartfelt toast with grandma or hitting the dance floor until 2 AM.

This move away from a cookie-cutter timeline is giving couples the freedom to design their weddings with more purpose, more creativity, and more joy. And honestly? It’s making weddings a lot more fun — not just for the couple, but for their guests too.

What Inclusive Wedding Trends Are You Seeing in Fashion and Attire?

One of the most exciting shifts happening in the wedding industry is in fashion — specifically, how wedding attire is becoming more fluid and inclusive. This evolution goes far beyond just “non-traditional” dresses or suits. Designers are intentionally centering queer, non-binary, and trans individuals in their work, creating pieces that don’t just fit — they empower.

What makes this shift so meaningful is that it gives couples and their wedding parties the opportunity to show up as their full selves. Gone are the days of rigid dress codes and gendered expectations. Instead, more couples are making sure their VIPs feel comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing, no matter where they fall on the spectrum of identity. It’s a powerful reminder that inclusivity can be as visible and joyful as the clothes we wear — and that your wedding day should be a celebration of who you are, exactly as you are.

What Wedding Trends Are Here to Stay (and Which Might Be Fading Fast)?

One trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere — and honestly, we’re thrilled about it — is the second (and sometimes even third!) outfit change. Whether it’s switching into a sequin jumpsuit, a chic mini dress, or a bold colorful jacket, couples are loving the opportunity to change things up for the reception. And it’s not just brides — grooms and nonbinary partners are getting in on the fun too. These outfit swaps signal to your guests that it’s time to party, injecting fresh energy into the night and letting your personality shine. It’s a vibe shift, and we are fully here for it.

But not every trend has aged quite as well. One that might be nearing its expiration date? Ultra-specific guest dress codes. Now, we love a good theme. “Broadway rave”? Count us in. But lately, couples have been leaning into hyper-curated fashion requirements — think “gilded garden party” or “all pink” — that leave guests feeling more confused than inspired. It might look beautiful in photos, but it can also create unnecessary stress, especially for older guests or anyone unsure how to interpret a vague Pinterest-worthy phrase.

If you’re going to request a specific dress aesthetic, try to keep it broad and accessible. Phrases like “lively colors encouraged” or “elevated cocktail” can still guide your guests without causing panic. And if you want to help them feel confident? Share a visual mood board or a few examples to show them what you mean. When in doubt, think about the guest experience — and whether you’re helping or hindering their ability to celebrate with you joyfully and comfortably.

How is Gen Z Changing the Wedding Industry?

As millennials, many of us came of age in the era of Pinterest-perfect weddings and highly curated Instagram aesthetics. But Gen Z is bringing a different energy. Yes, they still care about creating beautiful events, but their focus is shifting toward values like inclusivity, sustainability, and authenticity. They want vendors who reflect their beliefs, care about the environment, and embrace social responsibility. They’re not afraid to do things their own way — from breaking traditions to curating a wedding that feels meaningful instead of just photogenic.

That mindset isn’t just good for couples — it’s good for the industry. These shifts encourage wedding pros to look inward, rethink their values, and make changes that better reflect a modern, diverse client base. We’re seeing more intentionality in everything from vendor sourcing to sustainability practices to inclusive language and imagery.

Another big change we're seeing is the way Gen Z wants their day captured. While light-and-airy photography will always have its fans, there’s been a noticeable shift toward more editorial, documentary-style imagery that feels raw, real, and emotionally resonant. It's less about perfect poses and more about capturing authentic moments as they unfold. The edit style leans moodier, more true-to-life — and that’s not just a trend, it’s a reflection of Gen Z’s desire to see themselves as they are, not through a filtered lens.

That said, if you’re a wedding pro — especially a photographer or designer — the takeaway isn’t “change everything to appeal to Gen Z.” It’s about staying true to your brand while being mindful of evolving tastes. This generation values transparency, purpose, and realness. If you’re showing up in an honest way, you’ll attract the right couples for you. It's not about getting the most likes — it's about finding your people.

How Do You Stay Inspired and Current in Today's Fast-Moving Wedding Industry?

With trends changing constantly in the wedding world, it can be easy to feel like you’re always playing catch-up. But for Brittny, inspiration comes from a deeper place than just trend reports or color forecasts. While staying current is important — whether it’s covering Bridal Fashion Week or keeping an eye on emerging designers — it’s the love stories that truly fuel the work.

It’s all about striking a balance between trendspotting and values. Trends are fun, yes, but they need to be rooted in something meaningful to really matter. The authenticity behind a couple’s story, the intention behind their choices, and the celebration of diverse love — that’s what makes the work worthwhile. At the end of the day, the love stories themselves are the ultimate source of inspiration and the reason behind everything they do.

What’s One Thing You Wish More People Knew About the Wedding Industry?

There’s a common misconception that the wedding industry is all fluff — just pretty flowers, fancy dresses, and overpriced everything. But for those of us working in it, we know it’s so much more than that.

The truth is, weddings are about love. And love — in all its beautiful, diverse forms — deserves to be seen, celebrated, and supported. From vendors to media platforms, the work we do helps tell love stories in a way that reflects the world we live in. Especially when we’re pushing for greater representation and inclusivity, the impact goes far beyond aesthetics. It’s about creating spaces where every kind of couple can feel safe, seen, and celebrated exactly as they are.

Yes, some people roll their eyes and say, “Why spend so much money on one day?” But when you think about the power of that day — what it symbolizes, who it brings together, and how it can affirm someone’s identity and love — you realize it’s not just about trends. It’s about truth. It’s about creating moments that matter deeply to the people experiencing them.

From the outside, the wedding industry might seem superficial, but it’s anything but. We’re helping people step into one of the biggest moments of their lives with confidence and joy. And that’s incredibly meaningful work.

So, whether it’s ditching outdated traditions, designing a celebration that feels true to the couple, or simply making sure a wedding space is inclusive for all guests, the people behind the scenes are doing far more than creating a pretty event. They’re making space for love in all its forms — and that’s something worth honoring.

Connect with Love Inc.

If you’re ready to explore more inclusive wedding inspiration or want to support a platform that’s changing the industry for the better, head to their website here. You’ll find thoughtful resources, real wedding features, and content rooted in authenticity and representation.

Be sure to follow along on social @loveincmag for daily inspiration and updates. And starting May 20th, you can grab the latest print issue on retailer shelves nationwide — including Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Publix, and more. This issue features a very exciting celebrity cover star you won’t want to miss!

Whether you’re planning your own wedding or just love celebrating love in all its forms, Love Inc. is the destination for you.

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