What Gen Z Guests Love and Hate the Most About Weddings
Weddings are always evolving, and Gen Z is leading the charge in shaking things up. Born between the late ’90s and early 2010s, Gen Z has grown up in a digital-first, socially conscious world—and that perspective shows up loud and clear in how they experience weddings.
If you’re planning your big day and want it to truly resonate with younger guests, it helps to know what makes them smile—and what makes them cringe. Here’s a deep dive into what Gen Z absolutely loves and totally hates when it comes to modern weddings.
What Gen Z Guests Love About Weddings
Let’s start with the positives. These are the wedding trends and elements that Gen Z guests are 100% here for:
1. Personalized Details
Gen Z isn’t impressed by cookie-cutter weddings. What they love is seeing your personality as a couple shine through. Whether it’s quirky table names based on your favorite movies or handwritten notes at each place setting, it’s the unique, personal touches that make them feel connected to your story.
2. Sustainable Choices
Eco-conscious decisions score big points. Think plant-based catering, minimal waste decor, or locally sourced flowers. Gen Z appreciates when a couple makes a conscious effort to reduce their wedding’s carbon footprint.
3. Untraditional Venues
Forget ballrooms and banquet halls. Gen Z loves unique venues like greenhouses, warehouses, rooftops, barns, or even cozy backyard setups. The more original, the better.
4. Chill Dress Codes
This generation embraces comfort and self-expression. They prefer “dress to express” vibes over strict black-tie rules. Think fun prints, stylish sneakers, and room to show off personal style without judgment.
5. Interactive Elements
Photo booths, DIY cocktail bars, or a build-your-own taco station? Yes, please! Gen Z loves being part of the experience, not just a passive observer.
6. Short and Sweet Ceremonies
Long, drawn-out ceremonies? Not their thing. Gen Z appreciates concise vows, meaningful moments, and a smooth transition to the celebration.
7. Great Music and Dance Floors
A killer playlist or a great DJ can turn a reception into a party Gen Z won’t forget. Bonus points for including TikTok dance hits or songs with nostalgic Y2K vibes.
8. Inclusive Language and Practices
Gen Z is incredibly inclusive and diverse. They love when weddings reflect that—gender-neutral signage, diverse wedding parties, and respectful representation go a long way.
9. Good Lighting and Photo Ops
This is the Instagram generation, after all. A well-lit ceremony, stylish backdrop, or a flower wall can help guests get those perfect snaps for social media.
10. Late-Night Snacks
Gen Z appreciates food—especially after dancing for hours. Late-night snacks like sliders, fries, donuts, or pizza are a total win.
What Gen Z Guests Hate About Weddings
Now for the flip side. These are the things that Gen Z guests commonly roll their eyes at—or worse, silently dread.
1. Overly Traditional Elements (Just for the Sake of Tradition)
Gen Z doesn’t love traditions unless they have real meaning. Tossing the bouquet, cutting the cake, or wearing something old/new/borrowed/blue isn’t essential unless it’s intentional and personal.
2. Over-Filtered, Fake-Looking Wedding Photos
They prefer natural, authentic vibes over stiff poses and heavy editing. Candid, storytelling-style photos feel much more genuine.
3. Cash Bars
If you’re inviting Gen Z to celebrate your big day, they’re not thrilled about being expected to pay for their drinks. An open bar (even if limited) is always appreciated.
4. Uncomfortable Attire Requirements
High heels, suits in the summer heat, or tight dresses that restrict movement? No thanks. If they’re uncomfortable, they can’t have fun.
5. Too Many Speeches
Gen Z loves heartfelt moments, but if the toasts drag on forever, attention spans start to fade. Keep speeches short, sweet, and meaningful.
6. Lack of Accessibility
If your venue isn’t inclusive for all abilities or doesn’t offer accommodations like gender-neutral restrooms or allergy-friendly meals, expect Gen Z to notice—and care.
7. Rigid Schedules
Gen Z enjoys flow and flexibility. Weddings that feel overly structured, with no breathing room, can feel more like a chore than a celebration.
8. Zero Wi-Fi or Charging Stations
They may not be glued to their phones, but Gen Z does like having access to tech. No Wi-Fi or a dead battery is an instant mood killer for some.
9. Over-the-Top Wedding Registries
Gen Z tends to value experiences over material stuff. They might side-eye a $500 blender on your registry, but they’ll happily chip in for a honeymoon fund or charity donation.
10. Not Acknowledging Their Effort to Be There
Many Gen Zers are early in their careers or still in school. If they’ve traveled, taken off work, or spent money to attend, they appreciate being genuinely thanked.
Advanced Tips for Planning a Gen Z-Friendly Wedding
Want to really wow your Gen Z guests? Try these expert-level planning tips:
• Create a Wedding Hashtag
Gen Z loves digital sharing. Give them a clever, unique hashtag they can use to tag all their wedding photos. Make sure signage is clear so they remember to use it.
• Offer Tech Integration
Consider digital RSVPs, an interactive wedding website, or even QR codes on menus linking to song request forms or photo albums.
• Use a Cool, Relevant Theme
Lean into a theme they can get excited about—’70s disco, Coachella vibes, celestial glam, or cottagecore aesthetics all get major Gen Z approval.
• Include Vegan, Vegetarian, and Allergy-Friendly Options
Even if you’re not fully plant-based, having inclusive food options is a thoughtful move.
• Break the Rules (But With Purpose)
Gen Z doesn’t mind you ditching tradition—just make sure you’re replacing it with something intentional. For example, skip the bouquet toss but include a group moment honoring strong women in your lives.
FAQs: Gen Z Wedding Guest Preferences
Q: Is Gen Z really that different from millennials when it comes to weddings?
A: Yes. While both generations value authenticity, Gen Z leans even more into individuality, tech-savvy touches, and inclusivity. They’re less into formality and more into expressing themselves.
Q: Should I still include traditional elements if my family expects them?
A: Absolutely—but feel free to give them a modern twist. Gen Z appreciates when old meets new in a creative, respectful way.
Q: What’s the best way to engage Gen Z guests throughout the wedding?
A: Keep things interactive and social. Whether it’s a DIY cocktail bar, photo booth, or a fun group game, Gen Z loves participation.
Q: Is social media presence really that important to Gen Z guests?
A: For many, yes. A well-lit venue and photogenic setup can elevate the experience—and help guests share your day in real time.
Q: Should I worry if my wedding doesn’t appeal to Gen Z trends?
A: Not at all. The most important thing is that your wedding reflects you. Gen Z appreciates authenticity more than trend-chasing.
Final Thoughts
Weddings are about love—but they’re also about experience. And Gen Z is a generation that deeply values connection, authenticity, and intentional choices. If you’re planning your big day and want it to feel meaningful to every guest (especially the younger ones), don’t just follow trends—curate an experience that feels real.
Ditch the outdated rules, embrace who you are as a couple, and consider how each element—from food and music to decor and tech—makes your guests feel seen and welcomed. That’s the kind of wedding Gen Z will not only love but talk about for years to come.