Styled to Perfection, but Where’s the Story?
Are Weddings Getting Too Instagrammable?
Once upon a time, weddings were about love. Okay, they still are. But scroll through Instagram today, and you'll be met with a flood of “perfect” moments: editorial-style flat lays, flower walls taller than guests, and bridal portraits that look more like perfume ads than real life.
As a wedding photographer who thrives on capturing real, authentic, unscripted moments, I’ve been thinking about this a lot:
Are weddings becoming more about the content than the connection?
The Rise of the 'Insta-Worthy' Wedding
Let’s be honest — social media has changed the wedding game.
Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have turned weddings into curated events designed to perform well online. Some couples now plan their big day with a shot list for Instagram in mind — sometimes even before thinking about how the day will actually feel.
It’s not uncommon to see:
- A “photo moment” corner or branded backdrop
- Editorial-style golden hour shoots that feel more posed than personal
- A rigid timeline to squeeze in every detail for content
But with all this pressure to be “aesthetic,” what are we losing?
But What’s the Cost?
Here's the truth: chasing perfection can suck the life out of what should be the most meaningful day of your life.
I've seen couples so focused on getting the perfect shot that they miss the real magic:
- Spontaneous laughter
- A stolen kiss after the ceremony
- Grandma vibing to Kendrick like no one’s watching
Those are the photos you'll treasure for years — the ones that make you feel something.
Connection always beats curation.
The Beauty of Imperfection
Don’t get me wrong — I love beautiful details. I appreciate the thought couples put into styling and design. Aesthetics matter.
But here’s what matters more:
The emotions. The unexpected. The real.
Because sometimes, the best moments aren’t planned — they just happen. And those are the moments that tell your story and make your day unique.
A Gentle Reminder to Couples Planning Right Now
Before you choose a neon sign or a champagne tower, pause and ask:
- Are we planning a wedding to impress… or to connect?
- Would we still love our day if no one posted about it?
- Are our choices a reflection of our relationship — or of trends?
There’s no shame in loving aesthetics. Just make sure your wedding day reflects you, not a Pinterest board. You can still start with a Pinterest board for inspiration and ideas, but make it your own.
At the end of the day, weddings aren’t a branding exercise. They’re about you and familes coming together and uniting. It's about love, the kind that makes you laugh so hard you cry. The kind that shows up after the party ends — when it’s just the two of you, in everyday clothes, still choosing each other.
So yes — let’s make your wedding beautiful.
But let’s also make it real.
