Real 2024 Weddings That Inspire Us for 2025

As my 2024 wedding season wraps up, I know many 2025 couples are already diving into their wedding planning. There's nothing more inspiring than seeing real weddings and getting a glimpse into the unique ideas and memorable moments that made them special. These insights can spark creativity and help you discover fresh ideas for your own big day!

I put together some 2024 REAL weddings that inspire us for 2025.

Everything from bridal details to guest interaction - I have it covered for you. This hopefully will inspire you to add something new, consider something different or maybe just browse through weddings.

Sierra’s Stunning Turquoise Jewelry

I can’t stop thinking about Sierra’s breathtaking jewelry set. As a photographer, I’ve seen brides wear all kinds of beautiful pieces—some with deep sentimental value, others chosen for their elegance or practicality. But Sierra’s jewelry was truly in a league of its own.

She wore a custom turquoise set that was absolutely STUNNING. The story behind it made it even more special. Sierra told me how she first spotted the pieces at a market. Something about them caught her eye, and she instantly fell in love. She snapped a quick photo, but at the time, that was it. Fast forward to her wedding, Sierra reached out to the talented artisan, Lacey French of Crazy Hoof Silver, who crafted her dream set: earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, and a hairpiece. The cohesive beauty of the entire set added a unique and personal touch to her wedding day look.

Showcase Your Engagement Photos

One of my favorite trends at weddings is seeing the couple’s faces incorporated into the décor and activities. This year, two weddings I photographed featured custom cornhole boards with engagement photos printed on them—and I loved it! It’s such a creative and personal twist on a classic game, plus it’s something the couple can cherish and use long after their big day.

Elope to a Place You Love

Jessica and Devon chose a wedding location close to their hearts. They visit Lemhi County every year, drawn to the beauty of Salmon and its surroundings. With family building a home in the area, it felt like the perfect spot for their intimate ceremony.

After their heartfelt vows, they prioritized what mattered most to them: capturing their love in stunning photos. While their guests enjoyed cocktail hour, we explored the area for a private photoshoot. Jessica was clear that these moments were her top priority, and the result was a collection of memories as timeless as the scenery around them.

Go Bold with Color

When it comes to incorporating color into your wedding, I’ll forever be inspired by Lacye’s magical day. She got married at a charming camp nestled deep in the forest, and it felt like stepping into an enchanted fairytale. Everything about her wedding was vibrant, whimsical, and alive with color.

Lacye’s bouquet was a kaleidoscope of bold hues, brimming with bright flowers that perfectly complemented the natural greens of the forest. Her bridesmaids took the theme to the next level, each wearing a different color, creating a stunning, rainbow-like effect when they stood together. It was playful, fresh, and full of personality. If you’re considering how to bring your vision to life, don’t be afraid to go bold with color. From flowers to attire, a splash of vibrancy can turn your wedding into a breathtaking experience.

In Tacos We Trust

Let’s talk food—because it’s a big deal on your big day! One of my favorite wedding trends is seeing couples embrace food that they genuinely love. I’ll always cheer when The Taco Wagon makes an appearance at a wedding. There’s something so satisfying about serving up fresh, delicious tacos to your guests. Plus, it makes life easier for everyone. No need to stress over who’s cooking, arranging, or cleaning up—just let the professionals handle it!

The best part? You get to choose food that represents YOU. Whether it’s wood-fired pizza, burgers, or a donut wall, your menu should reflect what you love. After all, it’s your day, and there’s no rulebook saying you have to stick to formal plated dinners. So go ahead—tacos, pizza, or even breakfast-for-dinner—whatever makes your heart (and stomach) happiest is the right choice.

The Big Goodbye: Making Your Wedding Exit Unforgettable

When it comes to ending your wedding day on a high note, "The Big Goodbye" is a perfect way to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Whether you're showered with bubbles, sparkly confetti, or festive streamers, these moments create a magical farewell that you’ll cherish forever.

Take those vibrant streamers, for example—sure, you might underestimate just how much excitement and color they bring, but the results? Absolutely breathtaking! The cascade of swirling ribbons fills the air with joy, laughter, and a festive vibe that perfectly caps off your special day.

What makes a grand exit even better is how inclusive it can be. It’s a chance to involve all your guests in a shared moment of celebration without the logistical challenge of hugging and bidding farewell to every single person individually. Everyone gets to participate, cheer, and send you off in style, ensuring your final wedding memory is just as unforgettable as your first.

Guest Experience Is Key

When Cleve and Jessie planned their wedding, they made it clear from the start that their guests were their top priority. They didn’t just host a wedding—they created an unforgettable experience. To make their vision come to life, they built a barn on their property and carefully prepared everything in advance, ensuring every detail was ready to welcome their friends and family.

Comfort was at the heart of their plans. They provided plenty of food and drinks, fun games, and ample space for everyone to relax and enjoy the celebration. What stood out the most was their thoughtful commitment to capturing memories. Cleve and Jessie went the extra mile to ensure they got a photo with every single guest. By taking the time to connect with everyone individually, they created a sense of inclusion and made their guests feel truly valued. These personal touches turned their wedding into more than just an event—it was a heartfelt celebration of community and love.

But First, Photos

Weddings can be a whirlwind of activity, and the day has a way of flying by faster than you expect. To ease the chaos and maximize quality time with your guests, consider taking family photos before the ceremony.

This simple adjustment can make a big difference. It frees up the time after the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail hour or join your guests for dinner and mingling without feeling rushed. For families involved in setting up or preparing food, it’s especially helpful—it keeps them organized and lets them focus on the festivities without worrying about when photos will happen. Planning ahead means less stress and more moments to soak in the joy of your big day.

Let’s Do It!

Here’s the deal—it’s your day, so do what makes you happy. One of my favorite moments from Kat’s wedding was when she and her bridal party decided to shotgun beers while still wearing their matching robes. It was spontaneous, lighthearted, and completely their vibe.

These moments of togetherness, whether it’s shotgunning beers, popping champagne, or jumping into the pool, are what make the day unforgettable. They’re a chance for the bridal party to let loose, bond, and have some fun before the formalities begin. And as a photographer, I love capturing these genuine, unscripted moments that showcase the personality and spirit of the day.

So go ahead—plan that quirky group photo, embrace the unconventional, and make memories that reflect you. Whether it’s a silly, spontaneous gesture or a quiet, heartfelt moment, it’s these personal touches that will stay with you forever.

To You, I Vow

More and more couples are choosing to exchange their vows privately, and I’m absolutely here for it. This intimate moment relieves so much of the stress that comes with public speaking—especially for those worried about shedding a few tears in front of a crowd. Trason and Hailey chose to share their vows in a quiet corner, just the two of them, away from the busyness of the day.

This was their moment, unfiltered and raw. As they spoke their hearts to each other, there was laughter, there were tears, and there was an undeniable sense of love and connection. What made it even more special was how they followed this intimate exchange with a first look shared with their parents. Watching the joy and emotion on everyone’s faces was truly unforgettable. These small, intentional moments made their day uniquely theirs, and it was an honor to witness.

Be Spontaneous

What do you get when you combine a wedding by the river with a crowd of adventurous raft guides and outdoor enthusiasts? A spontaneous splash into the water, of course!

After a day filled with vows, laughter, and sunshine, the groom and a few guests couldn’t resist the call of the river. With the summer heat in full force, they kicked off their shoes, rolled up their sleeves, and dove right in. It wasn’t planned; it wasn’t rehearsed—it was pure, unfiltered fun. Moments like these remind me that weddings don’t have to follow a script. Sometimes, the best memories are made when you embrace the unexpected.

So be spontaneous. Whether it’s a playful dip in the river, a midnight snack run, or an impromptu dance-off, these are the moments that you’ll look back on with the biggest smiles.

Dance the Night Away

Zach and Jacque’s wedding was a PARTY from start to finish. With an energetic DJ setting the tone, the night was full of laughter, music, and surprises. But the highlight? A choreographed first dance that Jacque and her son, AJ, had secretly planned together.

When the music started, the crowd thought it would be a traditional slow dance—but then the choreography kicked in, and everyone went wild. Their dance was fun, playful, and a reflection of their close bond. It was a moment that had everyone cheering, clapping, and smiling ear to ear.

First dances don’t have to be stiff or predictable. Whether it’s a heartfelt waltz, a playful mash-up, or something entirely unexpected, this moment is about celebrating your love—and having a blast while doing it.

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Tags: Wedding Tips, Idaho Wedding Photographer, Salmon Idaho Photographer, East Idaho Wedding, East Idaho Wedding Photographer, Idaho Western Wedding