5 Key Wedding Trends For 2026

More couples are choosing to celebrate with a smaller guest list, focusing on meaningful relationships over large numbers. Intimate weddings at our Bristol estate venue allow couples to prioritise heartfelt ceremonies, quality time with their closest people and the added benefit of being cost effective.

This trend appeals to those seeking a calm, connected and personal day. As you continue reading, you’ll notice how some of these 2026 wedding trends naturally overlap.

One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen is the rise of two day wedding celebrations. Instead of fitting everything into a single day, couples are spreading their wedding across a full weekend to create a memorable getaway for themselves and their guests. This often includes a pre-wedding dinner, a relaxing post-wedding spa day or a family BBQ.

Our Manor House is perfect for this style of celebration, offering eight manor bedrooms, self-catered accommodation and seasonal bell tents, ideal for guests staying over multiple nights.

Twilight weddings continue to gain popularity thanks to their romantic atmosphere and easy flow. By starting the ceremony later in the day, couples avoid long itineraries and enjoy a smoother schedule. Twilight weddings are often more cost effective and easier to plan, making them a favourite among our couples.

This trend shines at our rustic Barn wedding venue, surrounded by natural scenery and our Walled Garden. Golden hour photos, soft evening light and candlelit receptions within the stone walls create an effortlessly enchanting atmosphere.

This brings us naturally into another growing trend: casual and relaxed weddings. Traditional formats have declined in popularity, with couples opting for laid back dining options, flexible timelines and an overall “go with the flow” vibe.

Our Barn is especially popular with couples who prefer a more informal celebration, offering everything from hog roasts and afternoon teas to buffets and festival style dining. Banqueting style layouts, outdoor ceremonies and festival themed weddings are all on the rise for 2026 across Bristol and the South West.

More than ever, couples want their wedding day to reflect their personality and story. From signature cocktails to customised décor and unique entertainment, personal touches are at an all time high. At Old Down Estate, we’ve seen couples bring their individuality to life through favourite songs, meaningful table names, personalised favours and themed styling that represents their shared passions.

This trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2026, especially among couples looking for a bespoke countryside wedding venue that allows creativity and flexibility.

It’s clear that couples heading into 2026 are seeking weddings that reflect their personalities, priorities and budget. At Old Down Estate, we’re proud to offer versatile spaces and flexible options across our Bristol Manor House and rustic Barn, supporting every couple in creating a day that feels truly their own.

Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxed twilight ceremony, a two day countryside celebration or a personalised wedding filled with meaning, our team is here to bring your vision to life. We can’t wait to see what new ideas our couples create in 2026 at our beautiful estate. Join us on Sunday 18th January 2026 for our January Wedding Fayre. See both stunning venues, meet the team and our trusted suppliers!