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    Disposable, but make it chic: Why wedding guests are reaching for film again
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    Disposable, but make it chic: Why wedding guests are reaching for film again

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    For years, wedding photography was all about polished perfection. Every detail was curated, every frame colour-graded, every candid moment somehow still looked planned.

    Now? Couples are deliberately inviting a little chaos back in.

    Disposable cameras – yes, the plastic, flash-heavy relics of the late ‘90s and early 2000s – are making an unexpected return to modern weddings. But this comeback isn’t about rejecting professional photography. It’s about adding something many couples feel has quietly disappeared: surprise.

    Because in an era where every guest has a camera in their pocket, it turns out the photos people treasure most are often the ones nobody planned.

    Why disposable cameras are suddenly everywhere again

    The return of disposable cameras fits into a broader wedding shift happening right now: less perfection, more personality.

    Wedding photography trends for 2026 continue to lean toward movement, grain, candid storytelling and imagery that feels emotionally real rather than editorially flawless. Couples are embracing motion blur, direct flash and nostalgic visual textures that feel more memory than magazine.

    Disposable cameras slot neatly into that mood.

    Placed on reception tables, tucked into welcome bags or handed out during cocktail hour, they invite guests to become part of documenting the day instead of simply consuming it.

    And there’s something unexpectedly romantic about not knowing what’s on the roll.

    The appeal? Imperfect photos feel more personal

    Film’s resurgence isn’t really about vintage aesthetics alone.

    It’s about perspective.

    Professional photographers capture the big moments beautifully – the walk down the aisle, the portraits, the speeches. Disposable cameras capture the rest: your cousin teaching your gran a TikTok dance, someone stealing extra cake, the blurry joy of the dance floor.

    Those photos feel different because they are.

    Industry reporting shows that couples are increasingly drawn to imagery that feels human and lived-in over technically perfect. Analog photography continues gaining traction because of its warmth, grain and emotional texture.

    Even guest-generated content is becoming a bigger part of wedding storytelling, creating an archive that complements – rather than replaces – professional galleries.

    Before you buy 20 camera – know what you’re signing up for

    There’s one detail Pinterest boards rarely mention: disposable cameras aren’t always the budget-friendly option they appear to be.

    By the time couples factor in purchasing, developing and scanning film, costs can climb quickly. Results are also unpredictable – especially indoors or in low light where disposable cameras tend to struggle.

    Experts suggest treating them as an add-on experience rather than your primary photography plan. Many couples are now using a hybrid approach: professional photography for the hero moments, with disposable cameras reserved for cocktail hour, guest tables or after-parties.

    A few simple rules help:

    • Use built-in flash indoors
    • Leave short instructions at each table
    • Limit cameras to high-energy areas
    • Add a collection box so cameras don’t disappear
    • Expect surprises (and a few unusable shots)

    Because honestly? That’s part of the charm.

    The new luxury might actually be imperfection

    For so long, weddings chased the idea of looking flawless.

    But the return of disposable cameras suggests something different: couples want their weddings to feel remembered, not manufactured.

    Not every frame needs to be crisp. Not every moment needs to be content.

    Sometimes the best wedding photos are the ones slightly out of focus – but impossible to forget.

    ALSO SEE: The wedding guest etiquette rules everyone secretly wishes people followed

    The wedding guest etiquette rules everyone secretly wishes people followed

    Featured image:  cottonbro studio / Pexels 

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    Not your average ivory: 5 wedding colours defining the season
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    Not your average ivory: 5 wedding colours defining the season

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    For years, wedding colour palettes played it safe – endless beige, muted blush and “timeless neutrals” that started blending into one another.

    But this season? Couples are bringing colour back.

    Not in a loud, chaotic way – but in a richer, more intentional way. Wedding palettes are becoming warmer, moodier and more personal, with couples choosing colours that create atmosphere rather than simply match décor.

    If you’re planning your big day (or building a Pinterest board that changes weekly), these are the wedding colours set to dominate the season.

    1. Sage green & soft stone: the new neutral

    If there’s one colour refusing to leave the wedding group chat, it’s sage green.

    But this season’s version feels more elevated than the sage-overload of previous years. Instead of pairing it with crisp white and stopping there, couples are layering tonal greens with warm stone, ivory, oatmeal and textured natural finishes.

    Think:

    • Organic floral installations
    • Linen-heavy tablescapes
    • Garden-inspired ceremonies
    • Bridesmaid dresses in mixed green tones
    • Soft candlelight over high-contrast décor

    The result? Romantic without trying too hard.

    WeddingETC tip: Add antique gold accents and layered florals to keep sage from feeling overdone.

    1. Butter yellow: the unexpected bridal favourite

    Soft yellow is quietly becoming the cool-girl wedding colour of the season.

    Butter yellow sits somewhere between classic cream and playful pastel — warm, optimistic and surprisingly elegant. Brides are using it for florals, bridesmaid dresses, stationery and sunset receptions.

    It works especially beautifully for:

    • Summer weddings
    • Coastal celebrations
    • Garden venues
    • Modern editorial aesthetics

    Pair it with ivory, champagne, soft olive or muted blue for a polished finish.

    WeddingETC tip: If full yellow feels intimidating, introduce it through florals, menus or reception details instead.

    1. Cherry red & deep burgundy: romance gets dramatic

    After years of whisper-soft palettes, bold reds are making a serious comeback.

    Not bright Valentine’s Day red – think cherry, merlot, oxblood and rich burgundy.

    This palette creates depth instantly and photographs beautifully, especially in candlelit spaces.

    Where we’re seeing it:

    • Bridal bouquets
    • Statement floral runners
    • Velvet details
    • Fashion-forward bridesmaid looks
    • Luxe black-and-red receptions

    WeddingETC tip: Balance rich reds with cream, espresso or soft pink instead of stark white.

    1. Mocha mousse & warm earth tones

    Warm browns are officially having their wedding moment.

    Influenced by the rise of earthy luxury and fashion’s obsession with edible-inspired tones, mocha, caramel, terracotta and mushroom neutrals are becoming the sophisticated alternative to grey and cool taupe.

    This palette feels:

    • Expensive without being flashy
    • Modern but timeless
    • Minimal while still feeling warm

    Perfect for:

    • Destination weddings
    • Autumn celebrations
    • Editorial city weddings
    • Couples who want neutral without looking plain

    WeddingETC tip: Mix matte textures with glass and metallic finishes to stop earth tones from falling flat.

    1. Jewel tones: colour with confidence

    Minimalism isn’t disappearing – but maximalist colour is definitely pushing back.

    Emerald, deep plum, sapphire and forest green are showing up in layered, luxurious wedding design.

    Instead of using one statement shade, couples are building full colour stories with contrast and texture.

    Expect to see:

    • Saturated florals
    • Coloured glassware
    • Tonal bridesmaid styling
    • Dramatic evening receptions

    WeddingETC tip: Keep the venue neutral and let colour do the heavy lifting.

    The takeaway?

    This season’s wedding colours aren’t about following one aesthetic.

    They’re softer where needed, bolder where it counts and rooted in personality over perfection.

    Translation: if your dream palette isn’t trending yet – use it anyway.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding Fashion: Mini Dresses, Gender‑Neutral Looks & Bold Colour 

    Wedding Fashion: Mini Dresses, Gender‑Neutral Looks & Bold Colour

    Featured image: Eugenia Remark / Pexels

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    Beautiful wedding centrepiece ideas that look expensive (but won’t break the bank)
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    Beautiful wedding centrepiece ideas that look expensive (but won’t break the bank)

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    When planning a wedding, it’s often the little details that bring the entire celebration together – and your table décor plays a huge role in creating the atmosphere. But with rising wedding costs, couples are becoming more intentional about where they spend their budget, proving that you don’t need extravagant floral arrangements to create a stunning reception.

    The latest wedding décor trends are moving towards thoughtful, personal and sustainable choices. Instead of oversized centrepieces that compete for attention, couples are choosing designs that feel romantic, effortless and meaningful.

    Whether you’re planning a garden wedding, an elegant ballroom celebration or an intimate dinner, these affordable wedding centrepiece ideas will help you create beautiful tables without compromising on style.

     Let candles do the talking

    There’s a reason candlelit receptions continue to be a wedding favourite – they instantly create warmth, romance and a luxury feel.

    A collection of taper candles, tea lights or glass candle holders can transform a table without the price tag of elaborate floral installations. Mix different heights and styles for a layered look that feels intentional.

    For a modern aesthetic, pair candles with simple greenery or neutral-toned flowers. For a more romantic look, add soft linen textures and warm lighting.

    Budget tip: Buy candles in bulk and use reusable holders that can double as décor throughout your home after the wedding.

    Choose greenery over expensive blooms

    Florals are often one of the biggest décor expenses, but greenery can create just as much impact.

    Popular wedding styles are embracing organic, nature-inspired designs with foliage such as eucalyptus, olive branches, ferns and seasonal greenery. These arrangements feel fresh, elegant and timeless.

    A simple greenery runner down the centre of a table paired with candles can create a beautiful tablescape without needing dozens of flowers.

    Use seasonal flowers

    Working with seasonal flowers is one of the easiest ways to keep floral costs manageable.

    Flowers that are naturally available during your wedding season are usually more affordable and easier for florists to source. They also tend to complement the overall feeling of the season – think soft blooms for spring, rich textures for winter and bright arrangements for summer celebrations.

    Ask your florist which locally grown flowers are available around your wedding date. A talented florist can create something stunning within your budget.

    Repurpose your ceremony flowers

    One of the smartest ways to maximise your décor budget is making your flowers work harder.

    Ceremony arrangements, welcome signage flowers and aisle décor can often be moved into your reception space after the ceremony. This gives your guests the feeling of a fully styled venue while allowing you to get more value from the same pieces.

    Speak to your planner or venue beforehand so there is a clear plan for moving arrangements safely.

    Add personal touches instead of expensive extras

    Some of the most memorable centrepieces are not the most expensive – they are the ones that tell your story.

    Consider adding:

    • Polaroid photos of your relationship
    • Handwritten table notes
    • Mini menu cards
    • Family heirloom pieces
    • Personalised name cards
    • Small favours incorporated into the table setting

    These details create a more intimate experience for guests and make the décor feel uniquely yours.

    Embrace minimalist centrepieces

    Minimalist wedding décor has become increasingly popular, with couples choosing clean tablescapes that feel modern and sophisticated.

    A single statement vase, a few carefully chosen flowers, and beautiful table linen can often create more impact than a crowded table.

    The key is focusing on quality over quantity – one intentional detail can stand out more than many competing elements.

    Think beyond traditional flowers

    Centrepieces don’t have to be floral arrangements.

    Creative alternatives include:

    • Fruit-filled bowls for Mediterranean-inspired weddings
    • Books and candles for romantic vintage themes
    • Glassware with floating candles
    • Potted herbs or plants
    • Dried flowers and pampas-inspired textures
    • Seasonal décor elements

    These options can add personality while keeping costs realistic.

     

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    Hire, borrow or DIY where it makes sense

    Not every décor item needs to be purchased.

    Many couples are choosing décor hire services for items like:

    • Candle holders
    • Vases
    • Chargers
    • Table numbers
    • Decorative stands

    This reduces waste and avoids spending money on items you may never use again.

    For crafty couples, simple DIY touches like painted table numbers or personalised signage can add charm without a large budget.

    Final thoughts

    A beautiful wedding table doesn’t come down to how much you spend – it comes down to how thoughtfully each element is chosen.

    The most memorable centrepieces are the ones that reflect your wedding style, your story and the atmosphere you want your guests to experience. With the right combination of candles, greenery, seasonal details and personal touches, you can create a reception space that feels elegant, romantic and completely you –

    without overspending.

    ALSO SEE: Budget-friendly wedding favours you can DIY 

    Budget-friendly wedding favours you can DIY

    Featured image: Jonathan Borba / Pexels

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    How to decide on a wedding theme

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    By Larissa Vermeulen

    A wedding theme is the golden thread running through your occasion, connecting every element, from the venue to the tiniest detail. Because the theme is such an important aspect of your wedding, it may seem like a daunting and overwhelming choice to make – that’s why we’re here to guide you:

    The Venue

    Where you choose to have your wedding will greatly contribute to the theme, so if you’ve already chosen a venue for your wedding, look at what it has to offer – a grand wedding hall calls for a glamorous approach while a beach venue requires a tropical or simplistic, natural theme.

    The Season

    If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, it might not be the best idea to celebrate your nuptials in the midst of winter, so it’s essential to take the season in which your wedding date falls into account. Furthermore, find inspiration in the colour palette of each season. For instance, if you’re planning an autumn or winter wedding, incorporate warm colors such as orange or red, or cooler colours for the warmer months.

    The Mood

    What kind of celebration do you have in mind? The formality of your event will directly impact the environment of your wedding. If you have always envisioned a formal black-tie event, then go for a glamorous, grand wedding theme. If you and your partner are both a bit more laidback, let that reflect in your chosen theme and go for a relaxed, informal garden party or beach wedding.

    The Personal Details

    It’s important to incorporate elements of you and your significant other into your wedding theme to make it unique to you as a couple. Have you travelled to any countries together that have inspired you? What is your sense of style? Even the most straightforward details such as what your favourite colour is could help you decide on a theme that is true to you both.

    The Culture

    Incorporating your cultural heritage into your wedding theme serves as a beautiful tribute as well as adds an element of tradition. It’s common practice for modern-day couples to combine multiple traditions, a dose of modernity and their personal style. These cultural elements could be incorporated in your colour palette, the menu or traditional activities.

    The Budget

    Most importantly, don’t forget about your budget! Be realistic and keep in mind that certain themes will be more costly than others. Don’t get wrapped up in looks or trends that you’ll regret later on. Having a classic, stylish theme is the way to go, but do incorporate small, fun details inspired by you and your partner to reflect your true personality as a couple.

    Image: Unsplash

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