2026 Wedding Trends
(and how to make them work for you at Hedingham Castle)
2026 weddings are all about personality, atmosphere and experiences that truly reflect the two of you. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic castle ceremony, a modern celebration with colour and flair, or a relaxed weekend with your favourite people, here are the top 10 trends to watch, plus practical ideas for bringing each one to life at Hedingham Castle.
Image courtesy of Andy Chambers.
1. Immersive multi-day celebrations
Couples are increasingly choosing a wedding weekend rather than a single day, so guests enjoy a relaxed quality-time rather than a one hectic day. Think welcome dinner, lawn games, brunch, a themed pre-party or even a gentle country walk with your guests.
Hedingham tip: This format works brilliantly at a castle: think medieval banquet in the Norman keep one evening, a party in the Ballroom Marquee the next, and a relaxed farewell brunch in the grounds on the final day.
2. Storytelling
There’s a chance to tell your couple story at every turn: bespoke stationery, custom menus, photo installations and personal vows. Your guests will feel the relationship in every detail.
Hedingham tip: Use the estate’s rich history as a narrative thread to tie in with the surroundings - create a medieval themed wedding ‘newspaper’ with fun snippets on how you got together and the order of the day.
3. Bold colour palettes & maximalist styling
2026 moves past muted neutrals: expect vibrant palettes, layered textures and dramatic table installations. Statement colour and maximalist tablescapes are trending, especially in stately venues where contrast lifts historic stone and timber.
Hedingham tip: Pair jewel tones with natural stone backdrops. Use coloured glassware or gold goblets and oversized floral runners along long banquet tables.
Floral arch by Evelyn Rose Floristry
4. Statement florals
Floristry is getting theatrical - archways, chandeliers and abundant installations are everywhere. Seasonal, locally sourced blooms are favoured to keep things sustainable and site-appropriate.
Hedingham tip: The Norman keep is full of arches so a floral arch display is the perfect addition to complement the architecture. Get your monies worth by using it first for your ceremony and then relocating it as a backdrop for your top table.
5. Sustainability
Sustainable weddings are non-negotiable for many couples: seasonal flowers, local caterers, reusable décor and digital inviations. These choices are increasingly central to planning and supplier selection.
Hedingham tip: We have an extensive list of trusted suppliers of which the vast majority are very local to the venue, including florists and caterers who all use local produce.
6. Experiential guest moments
Personal, thoughtful touches are replacing huge guest lists. Couples are curating experiences that make guests feel involved.
Hedingham tip: Use Hedingham’s history as part of the programming - a private castle tour with a local historian, or a falconry display as a surprise interlude.
Image courtesy of Alex Buckland.
7. Bridal fashion revisited
Fashion is playful: dramatic veils, bold accessories and vintage silhouettes are making a comeback. Couples are choosing looks that are expressive and photographic in dramatic venues.
Hedingham tip: When thinking about your dress, consider movement around stone steps and narrow staircases; dramatic veils and trains photograph beautifully against the keep.
8. Bold textures & tactile details
Texture is everything in 2026 - layered linens, mixed metals, embroidered napkins and tactile touches add depth (think menyus tied with silk ribbon). These elements help balance bold colours and add character and interest.
Hedingham tip: Combine velvet runners, jewel coloured glassware and hammered metal candle holders to create an appealing layered tablescape that complements the medieval architecture.
9. Tech-savvy but tasteful
Couples want tech that enhances the day without taking over: live-streaming for absent guests and carefully curated playlists that change through the day depending on the desired vibe.
Hedingham tip: A silent-disco dancefloor is a fun way to get the evening started.
10. Quiet luxury
Alongside bold styling comes a counter-trend: understated, elegant details. Beautiful linens, candlelit tables, excellent wine. A few high-impact touches that won’t go unnoticed by guests.
Hedingham tip: Work with a small local business to create delicious, high-quality handmade favours.
In summary, 2026 is all about choice. Whether you’re dreaming of bold, theatrical styling, intimate and personal storytelling, sustainable touches or a quietly luxurious celebration, the thread that ties it all together is intention. Choose the details that feel meaningful to you, and let your day reflect who you are as a couple. With the right setting behind you, these trends become more than ideas, they turn into unforgettable moments for you and your guests.
At Hedingham Castle we are with you every step of the way and understand that your wedding should be as unique as the couple getting married. We understand that flexibility is key and we love nothing more than helping to plan a wedding that’s full to bursting with personal touches and bespoke elements. Get in touch with our wedding team to find out more about weddings at Hedingham Castle.
Image courtesy of Andy Chambers.