By Katherine Pretorius
Weddings have always been a celebration of love, unity… and a bit of bubbly. But in recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift—from clinking glasses of champagne to sharing joints under string lights. Cannabis is becoming the new way to toast to forever, and couples across the globe (including here in South Africa) are saying “I do” with a bit of help from Mary Jane.
Whether it’s replacing alcohol entirely or simply adding an extra element of chill to the day, weed is slowly but surely carving out a space in the modern wedding scene. Here’s why more couples are choosing cannabis over champagne—and how it’s changing the way we celebrate.
A New Kind of Toast
Let’s be real—alcohol has been the default for celebrations for a long time. But not everyone wants to spend their big day tipsy or dealing with a hangover the next morning. Weed offers a different kind of high—one that many couples say helps them feel relaxed, present, and even more emotionally in tune.
Instead of pouring champagne, some are lighting joints during the reception. Others are choosing a pre-ceremony sesh with the bridal party or even offering infused mocktails as part of their welcome drinks. It’s about setting the tone—and for many, that tone is mellow, connected, and joyful.
Bud Bars, Not Booze Bars
One of the standout trends in cannabis weddings is the bud bar—a sleek, sophisticated station staffed by a trained “budtender” who offers guests various strains, edibles, or infused beverages. Think of it as a wine tasting, but with rolling papers.
Bud bars are:
- Customisable to your guests’ experience levels
- A great way to guide people through different highs (sativa for dancing, indica for chilling)
- Often paired with detailed menus, dosage guidelines, and lounge areas
They’re interactive, Instagram-worthy, and honestly, a lot more fun than watching your drunk uncle try to do the worm.
Say Goodbye to Hangovers
One big reason cannabis is replacing champagne? The next day.
Weddings are long, emotional, and usually packed with food, dancing, and late nights. While alcohol can leave you dehydrated and groggy, weed (when used responsibly) doesn’t come with the same crash. Couples and guests alike are waking up refreshed, not reeling.
This is especially appealing to wellness-minded folks or those who simply don’t vibe with booze culture. Weed offers a softer alternative that doesn’t mean compromising on fun.
High-End, Not Hazy
Forget the old stoner stereotypes. Cannabis weddings today are polished, elegant, and curated to fit each couple’s aesthetic. From hand-rolled joints in metallic cones to floral arrangements with hemp leaves, weed is blending into the décor as seamlessly as the cake or candles.
Even wedding favours are going green:
- Personalised pre-rolls in glass tubes
- Mini CBD oils with the couple’s names
- Edible samplers tucked into welcome boxes
And let’s not forget the cannabis wedding cake—a layered beauty that’s either infused (with low doses, of course) or simply decorated with fan leaves and earthy, botanical touches.
Thinking of Including Cannabis in Your Wedding?
Here’s what to consider before going full flower power:
- Know your crowd – Not everyone smokes. Offer options like CBD or keep it optional.
- Check the venue rules – Private properties are your best bet.
- Stay legal – In South Africa, cannabis is legal for private adult use. Don’t sell it or serve it like alcohol.
- Mind the smell – Use outdoor lounges or well-ventilated areas.
- Label everything clearly – Especially with edibles. Guests should always know what they’re consuming and how much.
Weed Weddings in South Africa: Legal Grey, Private Bliss
In Mzansi, cannabis is legal for private use—but still not legal for commercial sale. That means couples can include cannabis at private weddings on private property, as long as there’s no money exchanged for it and it’s for personal use.
Some wedding planners are starting to specialise in green weddings, helping navigate the legalities and plan chill, stylish, and compliant events. If you’re keen to go this route, it helps to partner with vendors who understand the local legal scene.
Cannabis is becoming part of a broader cultural shift where couples want their weddings to reflect who they really are. And for some, that means swapping the bubbly for a beautifully rolled joint or adding a sprinkle of CBD to their celebration.
So, whether you’re the bride, the groom, or just a guest vibing in the background, cannabis can offer a new way to toast to love—one that’s calm, conscious, and a little extra elevated.
Because nothing says “forever” like sharing your last nug.