Have the wedding you want.

I’m writing this in early January, and in true “new year, new me” fashion, I present to you Dearly’s first ever blog post. It was supposed to be something to the effect of Trends with Staying Power: What We Expect To See More of in 2026.

Easy. Timely. Pinnable. 

Two quick issues here:

1. These sorts of lists always amount to some pretty thinly-veiled SEO-fueled drivel, and mine was no exception.*

2. In some ways, we are the trend. 

Elopements or courthouse weddings are having a moment. Long after Covid made it a necessity, more and more celebs from actors to musicians to reality tv stars are opting for a small, quiet ceremony. Sure Thing, the ultimate Vegas wedding darlings, are bringing a new kitschy chapel to Manhattan this spring. And at Dearly, nearly 40% of our bookings last year were of our Quickie package, our 30-minute courthouse-alternative. 

In that regard, here’s what I can tell you from the eye of the trend-storm, so to speak. The only aesthetics that matter, the only “trend” that will feel timeless, the only details you’ll want to reminisce about are the ones that honor your love story and feel true to your relationship. 

It’s why I welcome micro weddings, elopements, and private vows being trendy right now – because it feels less about aesthetics and more about motivation. The decision to simply have the wedding you want is what’s being popularized. 

When your wedding guest list – and yes, wedding cost – shrink, you’re left with breathing room. You’re able to decide exactly what you want to include, exactly what’s important. Spend time and energy on unique favors. Go all out on custom signage. Splurge on dinner. Get the Champagne. 

Importantly, a small wedding also makes it easier to narrow down the traditions you’d rather exclude. Your venue isn't likely to dictate your timeline in the same way as it might at a “traditional” wedding space. Make your day your own. Have a first dance, or don’t. Do a first look, or don’t. Not cake people? Don’t cut one. 

What’s en vogue is doing whatever the hell you want – and that in itself feels timeless. 

– Jusmine

*Not to imply you’ll never find thinly-veiled SEO-fueled drivel here. I am still running a business, after all.

B+R were buying their first home, so they had a “paperwork and prosecco” party at Dearly to solidify all the legal “stuff” before their large party the following year.

E + C planned a large wedding abroad , but wanted to file paperwork in the US beforehand. They partied it up at Dearly Studio and had an intimate dinner with their closest friends and family at Juliet, thanks to our Union in Union package.

G & E chose our Love on Top package. They took polaroids with each guest for their Dearly favors, and also gifted each guest a different book with a custom bookplate inside to commemorate their day.