A modern guide for weddings in Cameron, St. Joseph, and beyond.
10 Things Brides Aren’t Spending Money On Anymore (And What They're Doing Instead!)
Weddings have changed a lot, even in just the past few years. If you're planning your big day at Emerald Acres, you’re probably already noticing that Pinterest-perfect doesn’t always mean practical—or personal. Today’s couples are skipping the fluff and investing in things that actually make their wedding meaningful (and memorable!).
Here are 10 things modern brides are no longer spending money on in 2025—and what they’re loving instead:
1. Welcome Cards
Let’s be honest: most guests glance at them, smile politely... and toss them. Brides today are skipping printed welcome cards and opting for digital RSVPs, wedding websites, or personalized signage at the venue entrance instead.
2. Destination Weddings
The hassle of traveling is so pre-2020. More couples are choosing beautiful, local venues like Emerald Acres near Cameron, MO, so guests can attend without taking out a second mortgage. Bonus: You can still make it feel like a getaway with gorgeous views and cozy lodging options nearby.
3. Wedding Favors
Brides are done spending hundreds on trinkets no one remembers. Instead, they're investing in guest experiences—like custom cocktails, a dessert bar, or late-night snacks that everyone actually wants.
4. Strict Dress Codes
Gone are the days of “black tie or bust.” Couples are embracing dress codes like “elevated casual” or “garden party chic,” especially for relaxed outdoor venues like ours. Think classy, but comfy.
5. Monochromatic Color Schemes
Matchy-matchy is out. Brides are curating color palettes with depth—think terracotta, rust, and sage together instead of just blush. The result? Timeless photos and a lot more personality.
6. Overly Themed Decor
No more full-on carnival themes or fairytale castles. Today’s weddings are all about vibes, not themes—natural florals, ambient lighting, and elevated farmhouse details (which we just so happen to do really well here at Emerald Acres).
7. Matching Bridesmaid Dresses
Uniform dresses? Nope. Brides are letting their bridesmaids choose dresses within a color family, giving everyone a say—and making for way more dynamic group photos.
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8. Boutonnieres for Every Groomsman
Many grooms are simplifying the look. A sleek suit and a clean pocket square can be just as polished—and much less fussy.
9. Huge Guest Lists
Quality over quantity is the name of the game. Couples are curating tighter guest lists to spend more time with the people who really matter. It also leaves more budget for great food, beautiful florals, and killer entertainment. We have the option for big or small guest list. We can curtain off half our hall to make a more cozy feel or keep the entire area open!
10. Cheesy Photo Booths
Brides aren’t ditching photo booths entirely—but the style is evolving. Instead of silly props and disco lights, many couples are choosing sleek “portrait booths” with pro lighting or a glam black-and-white look. Think timeless, editorial-style images your guests will want to post.
Planning a modern wedding in Northwest Missouri?
At Emerald Acres, we keep up with the trends and help you stay true to what really matters. Whether you’re hosting a cozy celebration with 40 guests or a 250-person bash, we’ll help you skip the waste and focus on what you’ll actually remember.
📍Located just outside Cameron, MO, and serving St. Joseph, Bethany, and the greater Northwest Missouri area.
🎉 Ready to tour the venue or chat about your 2025 date?
[Book a tour now] or [Contact us for more info]!
We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Within Sodo, Valley Mills Farm,Legacy Lakes Venue, Laurel Haven Estate, New Park Event Venue, New Park Event Venue Blog, Barn at Bradstreet, Evermore Ridge, Black River Lodge, Legacy at Serenity Farm, The Hidden Gem of Gruene, Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast, SC Southern Charm Events,Somos Family Weddings & Events. Amelia Grove, Sage View Ranch,22 Acres Farm.com/weddings,Cold Spring Farm, Rough & Ready Vineyard Estate at River Run, Irish Hills Wedding Barn, Vineyard at St. Charles, photoalli Spring Haus Farm
