19 Types of Weddings: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to planning a wedding, there are so many options to choose from. From elegant and modern to rustic and vintage, there are a variety of wedding styles that can be tailored to fit any couple's needs. Whether you're looking for a classic and traditional bridal celebration or something more unique, there are plenty of wedding types to choose from. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of 19 different types of weddings, from civil ceremonies to destination marriages, so you can find the perfect style for your special day. An elegant wedding is a formal occasion with a modern twist.

Couples may opt for modern design options such as a non-traditional dress or venue, as well as modern invitations, style, flowers, and decorations. Elegant weddings offer trend-focused style options rather than classic ones. All the formalities of a traditional wedding, such as a seated dinner and speeches, may be included in an elegant celebration. A contemporary and elegant wedding usually includes all the key players in the bridal party, such as bridesmaids, groomsmen, florists, and pages. Any type of transport is an option, with trendy cars being the most popular choice.

Venues for an elegant wedding may range from classic reception centers and wineries to industrial premises that have been designed with elegance in mind. A vintage theme means that the wedding style will be reminiscent of a bygone era. Most vintage-style weddings refer to the Victorian era, as well as the 1920s or 1940s. This theme is expressed through the clothing, hairstyle, and makeup worn by the bridal party, as well as the venue's style, flowers, and decorations. A rustic wedding theme or style is inspired by the simplicity of country life and references the outdoors. Rustic elements such as wood, metal, and unstructured natural bouquets and flowers are incorporated into a rustic celebration.

Rustic weddings are usually held in places such as barns, sheds, vineyards, or outdoors under a tent or tree. The reception may consist of a seated dinner or be more relaxed. A beach wedding is usually a relaxed occasion with guests not required to wear overly formal clothing. Most beach weddings include a ceremony on the beach followed by a reception at a nearby location. A handmade wedding is usually an elegant and informal occasion with either a seated dinner or cocktail party-style approach. DIY weddings are great for budget-conscious couples who can make their own bouquet of flowers, dress up, and even do their own hair or makeup. A romantic bohemian-style wedding generally has a relaxed but elegant atmosphere.

This is reflected in the style choices of the bride and her maids, as well as the choice of place and venue, decorations, and style of the ceremony. A luxurious and glamorous wedding can include elements of style such as bright and metallic colors like gold, silver, rose gold, and copper. Outstanding features like lush flower walls, opulent centerpieces, and elegant invitations add to the glamour.

Types of Wedding Ceremonies:

Civil Ceremonies:

Civil ceremonies are legally binding ceremonies that require only the couple themselves, an officiant, and legal witnesses. Guests may attend to witness the couple exchange vows and statements. Depending on when you choose to hold your civil ceremony you may be included in a large group of couples getting married on the same day.

Engagement Ceremonies:

Engagement ceremonies are celebrations that mark the official engagement between two people who plan to marry each other.

Engagement ceremonies may include traditional customs such as exchanging rings or gifts between the couple.

Destination Weddings:

Destination weddings are held in either a foreign country or another city/state than where the couple lives. They can take place on private beaches or national parks or anywhere else that suits the couple's needs. Destination weddings are often intimate events due to additional costs associated with transportation and lodging.

Non-Denominational Ceremonies:

Non-denominational ceremonies are secular ceremonies that do not include any religious elements or references. Couples who choose non-denominational ceremonies have more freedom when it comes to personalizing their ceremony.

Mass Weddings:

Mass weddings are large group weddings where multiple couples get married at once in one ceremony.

Mass weddings are often held in churches or other religious venues but can also take place in other locations.

Religious Ceremonies:

Religious ceremonies involve religious elements such as prayers or readings from religious texts. These ceremonies may take place in churches or other religious venues but can also be held in other locations depending on the religion.

Proxy Weddings:

Proxy weddings involve one partner being represented by another person during their wedding ceremony due to being unable to attend in person due to distance or other reasons. Proxy weddings are legally binding but require additional paperwork depending on where they take place.

Dual Power of Attorney Weddings:

Dual power of attorney weddings involve both partners signing their notarial right to two representatives who then sign a marriage license in front of an officiant. Dual power of attorney weddings can only be solemnized in Montana and require either residency or active duty military status.

Escape Weddings:

Escape weddings are spontaneous intimate experiences that require less planning than formal weddings.

Couples may choose to inform their friends and family about their marriage after it has taken place.

Humanist Weddings:

Humanist weddings involve non-religious ceremonies that focus on celebrating love between two people without any religious elements or references. Humanist weddings are only legally recognized in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Jersey, and Guernsey.

Informal Weddings:

Informal weddings are more relaxed than formal ones with couples having more freedom when it comes to personalizing their ceremony and reception. Although many customs and traditions may still be observed at informal weddings there is more flexibility when it comes to planning them..