Bucks &amp; Oxon


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/HORWOODWEDDINGS1-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-183953" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/HORWOODWEDDINGS1-1.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/HORWOODWEDDINGS1-1-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/HORWOODWEDDINGS1-1-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/HORWOODWEDDINGS1-1-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>If you&#8217;re planning a wedding this year, congratulations! You&#8217;re about to dive into a world of creativity and colour, with the emphasis squarely on personal style, rather than boring old tradition. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter receptions with bland beige buffets and predictable playlists. The modern wedding is all about atmosphere – how it feels, how it flows, and how it reflects the couple. From the rise of immersive experiences to the reinvention of the humble canapé, here’s what’s trending in wedding receptions for 2025.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vibe">The vibe</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/GREATGATSBY.jpg" alt="Weddings " class="wp-image-185708" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/GREATGATSBY.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/GREATGATSBY-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/GREATGATSBY-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/GREATGATSBY-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: @cavendishevents</figcaption></figure>



<p>Pinterest and Instagram have long been the holy grail for wedding inspo, but 2025 is taking things up a notch. More couples are treating their big day like an artistic production, using mood boards not just for décor and colour schemes but to curate the entire atmos. How do you want guests to feel when they walk into your party venue? Warm and nostalgic? Effortlessly chic? It&#8217;s all in the detail: wedding planners are mixing in everything from scent diffusers (try amber and sandalwood for an autumn wedding or fresh citrus for a summer soirée) to textured table settings to engage all the senses. Expect fewer trad wedding themes like ‘rustic’ or ‘boho’ and more weddings designed around feelings and experiences. Here&#8217;s a few to throw out there: perhaps &#8220;Italian summer dinner party&#8221;, &#8220;Studio 54 disco-glam&#8221;, &#8220;night at Jay Gatsby&#8217;s mansion&#8221;, or &#8220;minimalist Midsummer Night’s Dream&#8221;. Over to you.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-food">The food</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/L6A9844.jpg" alt="Wedding trends Cavendish Events" class="wp-image-185832" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/L6A9844.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/L6A9844-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/L6A9844-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pineapple carpaccio with coconut foam and Appleton Estate spiced rum syrup. Credit: @cavenidishevents</figcaption></figure>



<p>Forget tired smoked salmon blinis or dry vol-au-vents, says Liz Panter at <a href="https://bucksoxon.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/cavendish-events-long-crendon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cavendish Events</a>, who caters for weddings at gorgeous local venues like the Waddesdon Estate, Kirtlington Park and&nbsp;Hedsor House. The canapé game is being reimagined in 2025 with a focus on small plates that feel indulgent, fun and, most importantly, Instagrammable. Bite-sized trends include miniature everything (mini burgers with black truffle mayo, tiny tacos, or micro fish and chips), and couples using their food choices to tell a story, with dishes inspired by their heritage or favourite travel destinations. Think Greek lamb skewers, Korean-style fried chicken bites, or tiny Yorkshire puddings filled with rare roast beef. Push the boat out even more with interactive canapé stations. Instead of trays of pre-prepared bites, expect live cooking elements like made-to-order sushi, fresh oysters shucked on the spot, or even DIY taco bars. The days of accepting a dull-looking canapé out of politeness? So 2024, darling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-drinks">The drinks</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-12.jpg" alt="Wedding trends Cavendish Events" class="wp-image-185834" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-12.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-12-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-12-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Smoked Chambord Bramble cocktail. Credit: @cavendishevents</figcaption></figure>



<p>Signature cocktails aren’t new, but 2025 is bringing a new wave of experimentation to the drinks menu. Couples are choosing drinks that match their colour schemes (more on that below), their personal taste, and even the overall theme of the wedding. So, no more boring G&amp;Ts or warm Prosecco because unexpected ingredients are hot right now. Think cocktails made with floral infusions like lavender and rose, spicy notes such as jalapeño, or even savoury elements like basil and rosemary. Dialling things up another notch, &#8216;theatrical serves&#8217; – that means smoke, edible glitter, and personalised ice cubes (yes, that’s a thing) – are now making their way into wedding bars. And with more guests moderating their drinking these days, a killer no- and low-alcohol cocktail list is a must. Sophisticated zero-proof negronis and elderflower spritzes pack a flavour punch without the hangover hit the morning after.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colour-schemes">The colour schemes</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/THEDORCHESTER.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-185728" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/THEDORCHESTER.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/THEDORCHESTER-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/THEDORCHESTER-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/THEDORCHESTER-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: @theblossoncomp</figcaption></figure>



<p>Traditionally, weddings have been dominated by neutrals: beige, blush, and soft pastels ruled the roost. But bold is back baby, because 2025 is bringing a shift towards bolder and richer colour palettes. This year’s mood boards are full of jewel tones, earthy hues, and even deep, moody shades – think emerald green, burnt orange, and deep burgundy. If you&#8217;re feeling <em>really</em> brave, then black accents (once a wedding faux pas) are a go-to for ultra-modern receptions. Even florals are getting the maximalist treatment, with modern brides choosing big, bold bouquets that embrace contrast: rich reds against soft pinks, and bright yellows mixed with deep violets. They&#8217;re colours that shouldn’t be a match made in heaven, but somehow absolutely are.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-flowers">The flowers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/HANGINGPLANTS.jpg" alt="Weddings" class="wp-image-185714" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/HANGINGPLANTS.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/HANGINGPLANTS-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/HANGINGPLANTS-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/HANGINGPLANTS-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: @cavendishevents</figcaption></figure>



<p>Speaking of florals, 2025 is seeing a move towards immersive floral experiences rather than just traditional table centrepieces. Big, blousy, and undeniably dramatic, wedding flowers are becoming a statement piece in their own right. Think floral chandeliers, greenery draped from ceilings, and cascading flower walls that double as photo backdrops. Unexpected elements are being woven into displays too. For example, couples are blending dried flowers with fresh ones, incorporating sculptural branches into arrangements, or even mixing in fresh fruit: figs, oranges and pomegranates are proving popular. Sustainability is another growing theme in wedding planning. Instead of cut flowers, couples are choosing to adorn their reception venue with potted plants and trees that can be replanted after the big day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-party-plan">The party plan</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/CHAMPAGNELADY.jpg" alt="Weddings" class="wp-image-185716" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/CHAMPAGNELADY.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/CHAMPAGNELADY-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/CHAMPAGNELADY-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/CHAMPAGNELADY-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: @cavendishevents</figcaption></figure>



<p>The traditional wedding timeline (ceremony, reception, dinner, dancing) is all very well, but 2025 weddings are shaking things up a bit. Rather than the tried-and-tested linear party format, it&#8217;s all about letting guests move between different experiences. How does this work? Well, instead of an after-dinner DJ or live band, you might see pop-up jazz quartets and roaming acoustic bands, circus and cabaret performers, drone displays (a sustainable alternative to fireworks), or even AI-powered photo-booths to create animated GIFs and videos as hi-tech mementos of the happy occasion. The goal is no lulls or awkward transitions (we&#8217;ve all been there hanging around for hours after the church while the bridal party has endless group photos taken), to create an evening that unfolds naturally and engages guests from start to finish. If the party <em>really</em> gets started, keeping energy levels high (code for soaking up the booze!) could include a late-night buffet.</p>



<p>Ultimately, each wedding is as individual as the couple tying the knot – and that&#8217;s the whole point. So, ditch tradition for tradition’s sake and organise a wedding bash that feels personal and one-off – whether that&#8217;s a neon-lit warehouse party or an intimate garden dinner under fairy lights. Just don&#8217;t forget to send us an invite, okay?</p>



<p><em>Planning a wedding? Well, congratulations! Check out our guide to <a href="https://bucksoxon.muddystilettos.co.uk/life/weddings/i-do-stylish-local-wedding-venues-youll-fall-in-love-with/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the dreamiest venues in Bucks &amp; Oxon</a>. For help making the big day run like clockwork, call the <a href="https://cavendishevents.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cavendish Events</a> team on 01844 202299 or email <a>food@cavendishevents.co.uk</a>.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="667" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-18-667x1000.jpg" alt="Wedding trends Cavendish Events " class="wp-image-185845" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-18-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-18-533x800.jpg 533w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-18-267x400.jpg 267w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/cocktail-18.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 667px) 100vw, 667px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Espresso Martini with mini cinnamon doughnut. Credit: @cavendishevents</figcaption></figure>


Ding dong! This season’s wedding trends for stylish modern couples

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