The Rise of the Relaxed Wedding: Why 2025 Couples Are Saying Goodbye to Tradition

Once upon a time, a “perfect” wedding meant polished timelines, tight schedules, and cutting the cake just before the first dance. But as we head further into the 2025 season, couples are choosing something entirely different: ease, warmth, and a day that actually feels like them.

At Elisabeth Shell Events, I’ve noticed a definite shift. Weddings are becoming more relaxed, more meaningful, and less about ticking boxes. And honestly? I am here for it.

1. The Era of “Unwedding” Is Here

Couples are stepping away from tradition - and doing things their way. Think woodland picnics instead of formal sit-down dinners, elopements with just a few loved ones, or “wed now, party later” celebrations.

And it’s not just about being quirky - it’s about freedom.

“We just wanted to get married, eat tacos, and dance to Fleetwood Mac in the garden - and Phoebe made it happen, without the stress.” - J & A, Summer 2024 couple

2. What’s Driving the Shift?

Here’s what’s fuelling this move toward laid-back wedding vibes:

• Cost-of-living priorities: Couples want to spend intentionally - fewer frills, more fun.

• Post-pandemic clarity: They’re clearer than ever on what really matters.

• Social media fatigue: There's less pressure to create Pinterest-perfect days, and more desire to be present and actually enjoy it.

3. Relaxed Doesn’t Mean “Thrown Together”

This is important. A relaxed wedding still needs thought, planning and structure - just the right kind. That’s where I come in.

As a coordination specialist, I take your beautifully chill plans and make sure they happen. Smoothly, seamlessly, and without you having to direct traffic in your wedding dress.

4. 2025 Trends I’m Loving (and How to Use Them)

Here are a few trends on the rise that are perfect for relaxed wedding days:

• Statement Ceremonies:

  Think meaningful vows, outdoor settings, or alternative rituals.

  Tip: Create a ceremony that feels like you. I can help you plan the logistics and timing.

• Sustainable Everything:

  Wildflower meadows instead of flown-in florals. Linen napkins, sec

  
  
  
  

  ond-hand glassware.

  Tip: Sustainability can be elegant - I work with brilliant local suppliers who make it easy.

• Non-linear Timelines:

  Breakfast weddings? Evening ceremonies? Garden-party receptions with no sit-down meal? All yes.

  Tip: I’ll help you plan the flow so it still feels cohesive and calm for your guests.

• Mix-and-Match Styling

  Think textured tablescapes, mismatched candles, and wild florals.

  Tip: Let go of matchy-matchy and lean into beautifully curated chaos.

• Guest Experience First

  Couples want their guests to feel good. That might mean an acoustic set during golden hour or a DIY cocktail station.

  Tip: I’ll help you build a day that flows naturally and lets your guests relax into the magic.

5. Why Coordination is the Secret Ingredient

Relaxed weddings are beautiful - but they only feel relaxed if someone’s holding the behind-the-scenes reins. That’s where on-the-day coordination makes all the difference.

It’s the difference between:

❌ You chasing the caterer because the canapés are late

✅ Me gently solving it while you sip prosecco and hug your sister

Final Thoughts

This shift to relaxed, intentional weddings is more than just a trend - it’s a reflection of what people actually want from their wedding day. Less performance. More presence.

If you’re planning a wedding in Devon or beyond and this sounds like your vibe, I’d love to help bring it to life.

Let’s chat! Or come and say hi on Instagram. I’ll be the one sharing behind-the-scenes chaos, joyful moments, and real wedding magic.