Planning a wedding is full of inspiration, decision-making, and, let’s be honest, a few moments where you think, “What the heck is that trend?!” So that we can cut through the noise, we decoded Google’s search year in 2025— a topic that has seen a huge increase in curiosity this year — bringing you the ideas, styles, and destinations that are capturing the imagination right now (and what will inspire you to plan your 2026 wedding). Consider this your guide to what’s fresh, fun, and truly of-the-moment for your celebration.
This year’s visual vibe is a beautiful blend of nostalgic, natural, and whimsical AI curiosity.
“Ghibli” effect: Searches for Japanese animation studio Ghibli have increased significantly. This shows a desire for enchantment, soft magical realism, and lush natural backgrounds. Think a ceremony in a forest clearing, wild and romantic floral arrangements, and a touch of whimsy in every detail.
AI-inspired imagination: From AI Barbie to AI Ghostface, the cultural conversation is fueled by AI-generated art and concepts. For you, this means unparalleled freedom in mood boards and inspiration. Use AI tools to generate unique wedding illustration styles, surreal venue mockups, or custom patterns for invitations.
Vintage Revival: The resurgence of Art Deco and Craftsman in architectural searches speaks to a love of timeless and defined styles. This can inspire everything from your venue choice (a historic library or Craftsman-style bungalow) to the geometric patterns on your stationery or the elegant lines of your gown.
Forget the basic buffet. This year’s trending dishes are all bold, comforting, and Instagram-worthy.
Viral Dish Takeover: A piping hot honey cottage cheese sweet potato beef bowl is a moment. Although they may not be cut out for plated dinners, this shows that they love “bowl food,” a combination of savory and sweet options. Consider a stylish grazing table or late night snack station with deconstructed bowl elements.
Mocktail movement: “Postpartum” mocktails and lavender lemon drops are trending, highlighting the huge demand for sophisticated and purposeful zero-proof drinks. Create a signature mocktail bar with options like elderflower tonic and blackberry bramble to ensure every guest feels celebrated.
Dessert innovation: Dubai chocolate recipes are intriguing and suggest a desire for ultra-luxury and decadent sweets. Liven up your dessert table with a stunning chocolate fountain complete with gold-dusted chocolate truffles and exotic ladles.
The details make the outfit and the trends are wonderfully specific.
Hairstyles with attitude: Search for textured shags and bixies (a hybrid between a bob and a murix) and you’ll see a trend toward cool-girl, low-maintenance chic. To add some romance, Tinkerbell updos are also trending.
Clarifying details: Butter yellow nails, polka dot nails, cat eye pink nails, and 3D flower nails are some of the standout styles. It’s all about playful elegance and personal expression.
Concert outfit inspiration: Cowboy Carter inspired look (hello, led cowboy hat) and KATSEYE dominate searches. This spirit is perfect for receptions. Statement hats, bold embellishments, and outfits that make you feel like the star of the show.
Where are travel-loving couples looking? Trending itineraries are the perfect mix of classic and new.
City adventure: Tokyo, Prague, Edinburgh, and Boston all tend to require detailed itineraries. These cities offer the perfect blend of historic romance, cutting-edge culture, and incredible gastronomy, making them perfect for your post-wedding adventure.
Natural escape: Acadia National Park makes the list, reflecting the desire for a majestic, outdoor honeymoon. Consider a road trip to Garden of the Gods or Big Sur, two of the country’s most beautiful destinations.
International romance: For those looking abroad, Granada, Spain, and Colmar, France, come to mind with their fairytale streets and intimate, romantic atmosphere.
What’s playing on the speakers? Music and media trends tell the story.
Soundtrack: While Taylor Swift continues to own countless moments, the rise of Benson Boone sees him bringing a moodier, more cinematic sound to his moving first dances and sunset cocktail hour songs.
TV and Movie Atmosphere: The tension and charm of “The White Lotus” or the darkly comedic mystery of the top trending show “Wives of the Hunt” can inspire sophistication with a twist. Imagine a wedding with a slightly mysterious and luxurious atmosphere.
What are the biggest trends? Personalization. The surge in searches for everything from lovey-dovey outfits (a sign of playful fandom) to specific architectural styles proves that couples are drawing inspiration from every corner of their lives to create their day.
Use this data as a starting point. Combine the rustic romance of Ghibli with the smooth lines of Art Deco. Toast with classic champagne and serve a nighttime snack that will go viral. Choose a honeymoon that combines ancient cities and national parks in equal measure. Your wedding isn’t about checking a box off a list of “popular searches,” it’s about weaving together the threads of what’s inspiring you right now to create something that’s uniquely yours.
Source: Equally Wed – LGBTQ+ Wedding Magazine and Wedding Vendor Directory – equallywed.com
