A New Survey Shows Some Surprising Facts About Weddings
Modern UK weddings are less about rules and more about personality, individuality and celebrating culture, survey finds
A poll of UK adults has found that three-fifths (62%) believe that the nation is moving away from traditional weddings, with the outfits, run of show and entertainment that we might expect, and personalisation and individuality now seen as the number one priority by nearly half (46%) of those polled.
Social-media-friendly moments (36%), such as photo walls, creative food displays and recreating viral TikTok trends, entertainment/performance (36%) and cultural or religious representation (16%) are hot on the heels as priorities. This showcases that weddings are moving beyond being just a ceremony and are instead an event that lives on for guests long after the big day.
The research, conducted by wedding and events venue, The Waterfront at Brentford Lock, also found that 32% of people frequently attend weddings with cultural or religious traditions, and one in four have noticed an increase in weddings blending multiple cultures or traditions versus 5 to 10 years ago, too.
Over one-fifth (22%) of respondents say couples are embracing the first dance in a more creative way, such as involving more of the wedding party, and 7% including an Asian-style procession for the groom’s entrance.
Donna Wicks from The Waterfront at Brentford Lock, who commissioned the research, said, “It’s exciting to see how British couples are evolving their weddings in 2026. Couples are increasingly blending cultures, traditions, and personalities to create celebrations that are truly their own.
At The Waterfront at Brentford Lock, we work closely with each couple to bring their vision to life, crafting experiences that are authentic, memorable and personal. Our first-hand experience shows that today’s couples want weddings that reflect their unique story rather than following a ‘one-size-fits-all’ template. These insights inspire us to continually adapt and deliver celebrations that exceed expectations.”
67% say that traditional vows are no longer the default, with personalised vows becoming more mainstream, but wearing a white wedding dress is still common with 35% of respondents saying this is a tradition which couples are embracing.
The average number of speeches sits at 2.8, slightly slower than the traditional three speeches, with 13% of brides giving a speech and 17% having both sets of parents or elders saying a few words on the big day.
Whilst flash-mob first dances are rare (3%), one in three say that first dances have become more contemporary.
The bouquet toss is now mixing opinions, with one quarter of respondents saying that this is one element of a wedding which is likely to be skipped or changed.
