April 28th, 2025
Weddings in 2025 aren’t what they used to be—and that’s mostly thanks to Gen Z.
This generation (born roughly between 1997 and 2012) is currently stepping into the world of adulting with a very specific energy: hyper-online, hyper-aware, and totally uninterested in doing things “just because that’s how it’s done.” When it comes to weddings, Gen Z is flipping the script—mixing memes with meaning, tradition with tech, and a whole lot of personality.
So, what does it look like when Gen Z gets engaged in 2025? Let’s dive in.
Intentional Over Idealized
Gen Z isn’t into fluff. They’re into purpose.
This generation grew up during a pandemic, witnessed social upheaval, and lives with climate anxiety as a background noise. As a result, weddings aren’t a fairytale fantasy for most—they’re a deeply personal celebration of love, chosen family, and identity.
They’re asking questions like:
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- “Is this sustainable?”
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- “Does this reflect who we really are?”
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- “Do we want 150 people there, or is that just what we’ve seen on Instagram?”
Elopements, pop-up weddings, and multi-day festivals are replacing the traditional banquet hall blueprint. It’s about creating experiences, not expectations.
Wedding Planning? There’s a TikTok for That.
If millennials use Pinterest, Gen Z uses TikTok and YouTube Shorts. Planning a wedding now includes:
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- Watching haul videos of Amazon wedding decor.
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- Following small creators for tips on budgeting, DIY hacks, and red flags with vendors.
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- Using AI tools (like ChatGPT) to write vows, generate itineraries, or compare vendor contracts.
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- Creating “wedding mood boards” on Instagram close-friends stories instead of public Pinterest boards.
And forget spreadsheets—many Gen Zers are organizing their weddings through Notion, Airtable, or even Discord servers.
Budget-Savvy Without Compromise
Gen Z is financially cautious (hello, inflation and wage stagnation), but that doesn’t mean they’re skimping—it means they’re strategic.
Instead of spending $40,000 on a big wedding, they might:
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- Host a backyard ceremony with thrifted decor and an indie band.
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- Opt for digital invites and QR code RSVPs.
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- Choose quality video content over expensive favors.
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- Spend money on experiences (honeymoons, private chefs, creative photo booths) that actually excite them.
And because many are open about finances, you’ll find Gen Z couples being refreshingly transparent about their wedding budgets on social media.
Mental Health First, Always
This generation is clear: they are not going to lose their minds planning a wedding.
Gen Z is normalizing:
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- Hiring day-of coordinators to reduce stress.
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- Taking social media breaks during planning.
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- Ditching guests who bring drama.
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- Saying “no” to family pressure without guilt.
In 2025, therapy, boundaries, and self-care are part of the wedding prep process—and it’s refreshing as hell.
What a Gen Z Wedding Actually Looks Like
Picture this:
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- A city rooftop ceremony at sunset.
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- The couple in matching sneakers and statement pieces.
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- A playlist full of nostalgic hits and hyperpop.
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- A digital guestbook where people leave selfie videos.
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- A QR code on the invite that leads to a custom website with FAQs, memes, and Spotify links.
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- No first dance, but maybe a group karaoke session.
It’s not traditional. It’s not “Instagram-perfect.” But it’s real. And that’s exactly the point.
In Their Words…
Gen Z isn’t trying to throw a wedding that looks like a magazine spread—they’re throwing one that looks like them. Raw, intentional, imperfect, emotional, maybe a little chaotic, but filled with real joy.
And honestly? It might just be the most refreshing take on weddings we’ve seen in a long time.
