Scent, sentiment and storytelling: Expert-decoded wedding trends that will define 2026

As weddings move closer to personal storytelling, 2026 is shaping up to be the year where emotion, memory and individuality take centre stage. From scent-led design to destination-led intimacy, modern couples are redefining what decor means on their big day. According to Anton Denver, Education Director, EMEA at Jo Malone London, who spoke exclusively to HELLO! India, the future of weddings lies not in excess, but in intention; where every detail, especially fragrance, becomes a lasting memory rather than a fleeting trend.

EXPERT WEDDING TRENDS FOR 2026

1. Personalisation over performance

In 2026, weddings are becoming less about spectacle and more about shared meaning. Denver emphasises that true personalisation begins with collaboration. “When it comes to choosing your scent — whether it’s for yourselves or the venue — do it as a couple. This is not just the bride’s day; it belongs equally to both partners.” Rather than delegating crucial decisions, couples are increasingly involved together, ensuring that the wedding reflects their shared identity rather than a one-sided vision.

2. Scent as an anchor

One of the most defining wedding trends of 2026 is the strategic use of fragrance as part of the design language. “Scent is the strongest connection to memory,” Denver explains. “Long after the flowers fade or the music ends, fragrance is what people remember.” By pairing the bride’s and groom’s personal fragrances with candles or home scents placed throughout the venue, couples create an immersive atmosphere that makes guests feel connected to them throughout the celebration. Fragrance, in particular, has become a storytelling tool. A shared memory tied to a scent like jasmine, pear or freesia can be woven into the ceremony to make the experience deeply personal.

3. Designing for memory

Unlike other events, weddings live on through details. “People remember weddings through specifics — the gown, the flowers, the ambience, the scent,” Denver notes. This heightened attention to detail means couples are focusing on elements that guests will talk about years later, rather than the fleeting thrill of a party.

4. The rise of multi-day celebrations

Indian weddings continue to influence global wedding culture, particularly in the West. “Western weddings were once a single-day affair. Now, inspired by Indian celebrations, we’re seeing welcome dinners, brunches, tours and multi-day experiences,” says Denver. 

5. Destination weddings, reimagined

Destination weddings in 2026 are less about extravagance and more about intimacy and experience. “Couples are choosing meaningful destinations — mountains, vineyards, valleys — whether within India or abroad,” Denver observes. From vineyards in South Africa to serene hill towns in India, the emphasis is on places that resonate emotionally.

6. Scent as a wedding keepsake

Beyond décor, fragrance is also replacing traditional gifts. “Instead of flowers that fade, we’re seeing candles engraved and gifted as lasting mementoes,” says Denver. These keepsakes extend the wedding memory far beyond the day itself, turning scent into something guests carry with them long after.

(Also Read: A glimpse into Vedant Birla and Tejal Kulkarni's elegantly understated South Mumbai wedding)

7. Conscious celebration

Perhaps the most overlooked wedding detail is presence. “Couples need to be a little selfish — in the best way,” Denver says. “Take time to experience the wedding you’ve created.” From pausing to notice the candles and florals to soaking in the atmosphere, 2026 weddings are encouraging couples to slow down and truly live their celebration.

As weddings evolve in 2026, the shift is clear: meaningful over monumental, emotional over excessive. The modern wedding is no longer just seen or photographed; it is felt, remembered and relived through scent, story and shared moments.

(Also Read: Inside Netra Mantena and Vamsi Gadiraju’s Udaipur wedding: Jennifer Lopez, an island palace on Lake Pichola and more)