Fading Wedding Trends: What Couples in Spartanburg, SC Are Saying Goodbye to in 2025
- Laura Orndorff
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 21
Wedding trends come and go, and 2025 is no exception. While some traditions stand the test of time, others are being left behind in favor of more modern, meaningful, and personal celebrations. If you’re planning a wedding this year, here are some trends that are on their way out.
1. Large Wedding Parties
Gone are the days of having ten or more bridesmaids and groomsmen. Many couples are choosing smaller bridal parties—or skipping them altogether—to keep the focus on their closest relationships rather than feeling obligated to include everyone.

2. Bouquet Toss & Garter Toss
The bouquet toss and garter toss are quickly becoming things of the past. Many brides find the tradition outdated or uncomfortable, and guests aren’t as enthusiastic about participating. Instead, couples are opting for alternative moments, such as gifting the bouquet to a special guest or doing a fun dance-off.

3. Overly Traditional Ceremonies
Strictly traditional ceremonies are fading in favor of personalized, heartfelt celebrations. More couples are writing their own vows, including unique unity ceremonies, and incorporating personal touches that make the day feel more authentic.
4. Massive Guest Lists
With the rise of micro weddings and intimate gatherings, the days of 200+ guest lists are dwindling. Couples are prioritizing meaningful interactions over large-scale receptions, ensuring they can truly enjoy the presence of their closest family and friends.

5. Matching Bridesmaid Dresses
Perfectly matching bridesmaid dresses are being replaced by mix-and-match styles. Bridesmaids now have the freedom to choose dresses in different shades, fabrics, or styles that complement their individual looks while still fitting the wedding aesthetic.

6. Over-the-Top Wedding Cakes
Elaborate, multi-tiered wedding cakes are becoming less common as couples opt for smaller, more modern options. Dessert tables, mini cakes, and unique alternatives like cupcakes, macarons, or doughnut walls are taking center stage.

7. Standard Ballrooms
Generic hotel ballrooms are losing popularity as couples seek more unique and personalized venues. Barns, gardens, industrial lofts, and outdoor settings are now the preferred choice, offering a natural and more intimate atmosphere.

8. Overly Staged Photos
Traditional, stiffly posed wedding photos are making way for a more natural, documentary-style approach. Candid photography that captures real emotions and spontaneous moments is becoming the preferred way to document weddings.

9. Formal Sit-Down Dinners
Instead of multi-course plated dinners, couples are embracing interactive and relaxed dining experiences like food trucks, family-style meals, and grazing tables. These options encourage guests to mingle and create a more laid-back reception vibe.
10. Sparklers & Fireworks Exits
While sparkler send-offs and fireworks displays have been popular for years, many couples are skipping them due to safety concerns and environmental awareness. Alternatives like bubbles, LED lights, or biodegradable confetti are becoming more popular.

11. Wedding Favors
Traditional wedding favors, which often get left behind, are being phased out. Instead, couples are focusing on practical gifts, such as personalized glassware or edible treats, or opting for experience-based gestures like late-night snack stations or donations to charity in honor of their guests.
What’s Replacing These Trends?
With these traditions disappearing, couples are making their weddings more personal, intentional, and reflective of their personalities. The focus is shifting to creating an unforgettable experience for guests, rather than sticking to outdated customs.
Are you planning a wedding at The Barn at Poplar Springs? We’d love to help bring your vision to life with a celebration that reflects the best of today’s trends while honoring timeless traditions. Contact us to learn more about our stunning venue and all-inclusive wedding packages!
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. We hope the inspiration we shared is helpful to you and your wedding plans! For questions regarding this blog contact The Barn at Poplar Springs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email: thebarnatpoplarspringsfarm@aol.com or phone: 864-680-7757.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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