Opting for celebrations lasting several days, couples are delighting guests with curated experiences that reflect their love story and the destination
By Zeina Reinboldt, director of weddings and social events at Arizona Biltmore
Today, wedding celebrations are no longer just one day. Newlyweds are reimagining tradition—swapping single-day timelines for full wedding weekends that invite guests to connect, explore, and celebrate in a way that feels both elevated and deeply personal.
As a luxury resort with a rich history and endless opportunities for personalization, Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix has become a natural canvas for these experiences—where every gathering, toast and detail is thoughtfully designed to reflect both the couple and the destination.
Over the past year, I’ve seen a consistent rise in couples prioritizing guest connection, unique experiences and curated moments that go beyond traditional formats. Here are three defining trends shaping weddings and social events in 2025, all rooted in one larger theme: personalization through place.
Trend #1: From Wedding Day to Wedding Weekend
The wedding weekend is quickly becoming the new standard. Guests are traveling from near and far, and couples want to make the most of that time together—not just for the ceremony and reception, but throughout a multi-day agenda of events that feel purposeful and thoughtful.
At Arizona Biltmore, this has looked like welcome receptions held under the stars on our iconic Front Lawn, post-check-in group gatherings at our Spire Bar with curated welcome cocktails, or even a friendly pickleball tournament on our state-of-the-art courts.
Creating a wedding weekend doesn’t have to mean over-scheduling. The best ones strike a balance between curated activities and moments of free exploration. What matters most is creating a shared experience that brings everyone together, which begins the moment they arrive.
Trend #2: Immersive Resort Experiences That Reflect the Couple’s Style
Couples seek to celebrate not just in a beautiful setting, but in a destination that tells a story—and they’re looking for ways to weave that story throughout the weekend. We’ve seen more and more couples lean into what makes our property unique, curating experiences that reflect both their personalities and the design of the resort.
One recent couple hosted a private property tour for guests with one simple twist: Each guest received an original tequila sunrise (invented at the Arizona Biltmore) to enjoy as they learned about the architecture, the celebrities who once vacationed here and the hidden historical gems found across the grounds. It was an elegant way to blend hospitality with heritage, and it became one of the most memorable highlights of the weekend.
These immersive experiences give guests a stronger sense of connection, not only to the couple but also to the destination. It transforms the wedding from a single-day affair into a journey that guests will talk about long after the final farewell brunch.
Trend #3: Experiential Touches Woven into the Wedding Itself
This personalized, destination-driven approach doesn’t stop at the pre- and post-events. We’re seeing couples bring experiential elements directly into their ceremony and reception in creative and meaningful ways—particularly when it comes to food and beverage.
We’re upgrading tray-passed signature cocktails, now featuring custom cocktail napkins that tell a story. Imagine a tequila sunrise served at cocktail hour with a note about its Biltmore origin—a nod to both the location and the couple’s shared love for vintage classics. At a recent after-party, guests were invited to enjoy prohibition-themed cocktails served in a speakeasy-style lounge, complete with art deco glassware and jazz music, subtly tying back to the resort’s glamorous 1920s heritage.
Whether it’s a late-night snack station inspired by the couple’s favorite travel destination or a personalized whiskey tasting lounge, these touches allow guests to experience something new while also getting a glimpse into the couple’s story and shared interests.
Looking Ahead
Today’s couples want more than a beautiful wedding—they want a personalized, immersive and meaningful experience for their guests. By turning a single-day event into a thoughtfully curated weekend and leveraging the distinct character of their venue, couples are elevating every aspect of the celebration.
As planners and professionals, it’s our role to help bring that vision to life. Whether it’s a bespoke welcome experience or a history-inspired cocktail hour, the magic is in the details—and the ability to turn a wedding into a memory-rich journey that no one will forget.
About the Author
Zeina Reinboldt is the director of weddings and social events at Arizona Biltmore, bringing over a decade of experience in catering and hospitality to the role. With nearly four years at the resort and a successful tenure as assistant director of catering, she has planned and executed countless custom events, guided couples through their wedding journeys and represented the resort at industry events around the world. In her recently promoted role, she leads strategic efforts to elevate the guest experience and reinforce Arizona Biltmore’s reputation as a premier luxury wedding destination.
For more information, visit arizonabiltmore.com.
