1. The Guest List Has Gotten Smaller
Back in the 70s, it wasn’t unusual for weddings to include extended family and friends of friends. Today, many couples prefer intimate ceremonies with a curated guest list, often due to budget constraints or a desire for a more personal celebration.
2. The Ceremony Is Less Religious
In the 70s, church weddings were the default. These days, many couples opt for secular ceremonies or incorporate personal touches like writing their own vows. This shift reflects declining religious affiliation and a focus on individual values.
3. Same-Sex Weddings Are Celebrated
Same-sex marriage wasn’t legally recognized in the 1970s, but today, love is love. Weddings now celebrate all kinds of unions, with couples creating traditions that honor their unique love stories.
4. DIY Elements Are In
In the 70s, weddings were more straightforward and relied on traditional vendors. These days, DIY details like handmade centerpieces or personalized favors are popular. They add a creative, meaningful touch while often saving money.
5. Brides Are Breaking Fashion Rules
Long white gowns and veils were standard in the 1970s, but today’s brides are experimenting with colorful dresses, jumpsuits, and even capes. It’s all about self-expression and embracing unique styles over tradition.
6. Grooms Are More Involved
Traditionally, grooms in the 70s often left the planning to the bride. Nowadays, many grooms actively participate in decisions, from choosing the menu to designing the playlist, reflecting a more egalitarian approach to partnerships.
7. Destination Weddings Have Taken Off
While the 1970s saw most weddings hosted close to home, destination weddings have exploded in popularity. Whether it’s a beach in Mexico or a villa in Italy, couples love the idea of combining their wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable experience.
8. Digital Invitations Are the Norm
Paper invitations were the only option in the 70s, but now, couples are embracing e-vites and wedding websites. They’re eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and make it easier to track RSVPs.
9. Wedding Photos Are All About the Aesthetic
Wedding photography in the 1970s was formal and posed, but today, candid, documentary-style shots dominate. Drones, photo booths, and Instagram filters have also revolutionized how weddings are captured.
10. Couples Are Marrying Later
In the 1970s, the average age for first marriages was in the early 20s. Today, couples often wait until their late 20s or 30s to walk down the aisle. This reflects changing priorities, with many focusing on education, careers, and personal growth before settling down.
11. Wedding Costs Have Skyrocketed
A 1970s wedding averaged a few thousand dollars, but now, couples in the U.S. spend tens of thousands on their big day. Inflation plays a role, but so do modern expectations for elaborate venues, designer dresses, and Instagram-worthy details.
12. Social Media Shapes the Day
Social media wasn’t even a concept in the 70s, but now it’s central to many weddings. From live-streaming ceremonies to curated hashtags, couples use social media to share their big day with loved ones near and far.
13. Eco-Friendly Weddings Are Trending
Sustainability wasn’t a focus in the 1970s, but today’s couples prioritize eco-friendly options like plant-based menus, biodegradable decor, and vintage attire. It’s a reflection of modern values around environmental responsibility.
14. Couples Focus on Experiences Over Tradition
In the 70s, weddings often followed a predictable formula. Now, couples prioritize creating a day that feels uniquely theirs—whether it’s hosting a food truck reception, skipping the bouquet toss, or writing a joint toast. The emphasis is on meaningful moments over rigid traditions.
From fashion and photography to inclusivity and sustainability, weddings today are a world apart from those in the 1970s. These changes highlight how far we’ve come in celebrating individuality and love in all its forms.
