Weddings have long been seen as the pinnacle of traditional celebration, filled with rituals, white gowns, and meticulous planning. However, a new movement is gaining momentum: the anti-bride trend. This trend is not about rejecting marriage but redefining what it means to have a wedding. It’s about authenticity, individuality, and breaking away from convention. Exploring this trend with Quinn during her bridal portraits was a lot of fun.

What is the Anti-Bride Trend?

The anti-bride trend is all about personal expression and defying traditional expectations. It’s a movement for those who want their wedding day to reflect their unique personalities rather than conforming to the societal norms of what a wedding “should” be. Anti-brides often forgo traditional elements like white dresses, formal ceremonies, and large guest lists in favor of more personalized, meaningful celebrations.

Key Elements of this Trend

1. Non-Traditional Attire: Anti-brides are saying no to the traditional white gown. They are opting for dresses in bold colors, jumpsuits, or even chic separates. Some choose vintage pieces or custom designs that reflect their personal style. The emphasis is on wearing something that feels right for them rather than adhering to tradition.
2. Unique Venues: Instead of grand ballrooms or churches, anti-brides are choosing unconventional venues that hold personal significance or offer unique experiences. Think art galleries, warehouses, rooftops, forests, or even their own backyard. The location is chosen for its ability to reflect the couple’s personality and story.
3. Personalized Ceremonies: The ceremony itself is often customized to fit the couple’s beliefs and relationship. This can mean writing their own vows, incorporating unique rituals, or even having friends and family officiate. The focus is on creating a ceremony that feels intimate and personal.
4. Eco-Friendly Choices: Many anti-brides are also environmentally conscious, opting for sustainable options. This might include second-hand dresses, locally sourced flowers, eco-friendly confetti, and digital invitations. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of the wedding.
5. Diverse Food Options: Catering at an anti-bride wedding often steps away from the traditional sit-down dinner. Food trucks, potlucks, and themed food stations are popular choices, offering a relaxed and communal dining experience. This approach can also accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions more easily.
6. Intimate Guest Lists: Anti-brides tend to prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings over large, extravagant events. The focus is on sharing the day with close friends and family rather than impressing a vast number of guests. This often leads to a more relaxed and meaningful celebration.
7. Minimalist and DIY Decor: Decorations are often minimalistic or DIY, emphasizing personal touches over opulence. Handmade centerpieces, thrifted items, and simple, elegant designs create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Why this Trend is Growing

Social media has played a significant role in this focus on authentic weddings. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest provide endless inspiration for unique weddings, showing couples that there are no limits to how they can celebrate their love. Seeing others break away from tradition gives more couples the confidence to do the same.

Embracing the Anti-Bride Ethos

I loved collaborating with Quinn on her bridal portraits in a way that felt true to her. Her dresses were stunning, but we wanted to add an air of playfulness to suit her personality, so we shied away from a traditional studio location in exchange for a boutique hotel and poolside cocktail.

In a world where traditions often dictate life’s significant moments, this anti-bride session with Quinn is a testament to the power of personal choice and the beauty of individuality. For more wedding images head here.

Venue: The Kimpton Brice Hotel

Hair and Makeup Artist: Wonderland Beauty Bar

Dresses: Berta