Once upon a time, Indian weddings were dramatic but simple affairs – gold, family drama, the occasional awkward dance performances, and non-choreographed moments.
Fast forward to today, and weddings have morphed into an elaborate Instagrammable extravaganza, with every moment meticulously curated for the perfect shot. From pre-wedding photoshoots to elaborate hashtags that trend faster than the wedding itself, social media has now become the ultimate wedding planner. Who needs a wedding album when you can have an Insta feed that chronicles your love story with more filters than a coffee shop menu?
In a world where even wedding vows come with a ‘Save the Date’ post, the line between tradition and trend is getting blurrier by the day. So, what’s really happening when love meets the ‘gram? In an exclusive conversation. Anjali Tolani, Vice President at Tamarind Global Weddings, highlights how Instagram is not just influencing, but practically dictating the way Indian weddings are unfolding – one hashtag at a time.
The evolution of wedding decor
Exposure to trends from all over the world has led to a shift in Indian wedding aesthetics. While vibrant colours and grand setups were once the norm, we are now seeing a rise in minimalistic themes, pastel tones, neutral colour palettes and so much more! Soft florals, structured tablescapes, European architecture-inspired backdrops – everything reflects a move towards understated luxury, making weddings feel intimate yet visually stunning, thanks to Instagram!
The celebrity effect on outfits
When it comes to bridal and groom wear, Instagram is driving fashion trends like never before. With celebrity weddings and looks becoming more accessible because of Instagram, brides and grooms adopt everything into theirs, from lehenga colours and designs to outfit coordination. Matching with decor palettes, monochrome ensembles and personalised accessories are all in vogue. The need for viral-worthy photos has also led to coordinated bridesmaids and groomsmen outfits, which adds to the visual appeal of the wedding albums.
How viral foods trends are dictating catering decisions
Weddings are as much about food as they are about celebrations, and Instagram has taken wedding cuisine to the next level. Couples are opting for viral food trends, including live sushi counters, gourmet dessert tables, artisanal coffee bars that make for the perfect Instagram stories. Presentation is key, with interactive food stations and artfully plated dishes designed to be photographed before they are enjoyed. Food is becoming a visual experience in itself!
Aesthetic digital invitations and wedding hashtags
Bidding goodbye to traditional printed wedding invitations, most couples now are opting for animated e-vites, digital invitations with interactive elements along with custom wedding hashtags to ensure every moment is documented under one umbrella, thanks to Instagram’s influence. Hashtags make it easy for guests to share their experiences, creating a digital wedding album that stays online forever.
Instagram for wedding functions
Some couples are taking it a step further by creating dedicated Instagram accounts for their weddings, which allows guests to stay updated on events and experiences. Interactive reels and behind-the-scenes footage from pre-wedding shoots are becoming part of the wedding journey. Events are often planned keeping social media engagement in mind, so that the flow of the celebration allows for aesthetically pleasing and unforgettable moments.
Wedding content creators
One of the biggest changes Instagram has brought to the Indian wedding industry is the rise of wedding content creation as a full-fledged career. Dedicated wedding content creators now attend events to capture candid moments, create professional reels, document every aspect of the celebration in a way that makes it highly shareable. These professionals specialise in curating content that tells the story of the wedding in a visually engaging manner, making sure the couple’s big day is remembered far beyond the event itself.
The impact of Instagram on how weddings are planned, executed and experienced is undeniable.
