JMU experts available for insights on wedding trends, relationship dynamics

HARRISONBURG, Va. — With wedding season in full swing, many outlets are exploring not just trends but the relationship, family and communication dynamics behind modern weddings. James Madison University faculty experts Donna Fickes and Jennie Rosier can add fresh, research-informed perspectives.

They can speak to timely angles such as: 

• The shift from traditional weddings to experience-driven celebrations
• How technology and sustainability are reshaping the wedding landscape
• Mental health, stress, communication and relationship dynamics during wedding planning
• What wedding trends say about modern relationships, gender roles and family dynamics

Observations from Fickes:

“Weddings today are increasingly experience-driven, with couples prioritizing memorable guest interactions, personalized hospitality, and meaningful celebrations over traditional conventions,” said Fickes. “This evolution influences everything from venue selection and menu planning to entertainment and event design.”

“One of the most notable trends is the growing emphasis on guest experience,” added Fickes. “Couples are investing in interactive food and beverage stations, curated entertainment, wedding weekend activities, and personalized touches that create lasting memories. At the same time, consumer behavior around wedding spending is changing.”

Observations from Rosier:

“Gen Z appears to want traditional relationship outcomes such as love, commitment and long-term partnership, but they are navigating a dating culture that often encourages emotional distance and casual connection,” said Rosier. “Weddings may ultimately reflect a generation reclaiming commitment after years of uncertainty.”

“Many in Gen Z spend years in loosely defined relationships before committing. As a result, marriage is becoming less of a default expectation and more of a deliberate decision made after extensive relationship exploration,” added Rosier.

To interview Fickes and/or Rosier, please contact Chad Saylor, saylorcx@jmu.edu.