As wedding trends evolve, one of the most whimsical updates sees brides swapping traditional bouquet tosses for an unexpected alternative: Labubu dolls. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, these plush toys have surged in popularity, especially among younger generations, and are increasingly becoming the stars of wedding celebrations. In 2025, it appears that throwing a Labubu—rather than a bouquet—is set to become the new ritual for brides eager to delight their wedding guests and create lasting memories.

The rise of the Labubu toss can be traced back to viral moments on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. In recent months, videos featuring brides throwing Labubu dolls at their single female friends have garnered much attention. For example, a bride in Melbourne caused a stir at her reception by tossing a Labubu keychain, prompting delighted screams from guests as they scrambled to catch the toy. This novel wedding element sparked playful commentary online, including speculation about whether a wedding in 2025 is truly complete without a Labubu toss.

Echoing this trend, a Singaporean bride named Zina Ng embraced the doll in November 2024 during her wedding banquet. After leaving her bouquet at her husband's home, the suggestion to toss a Labubu doll instead provided a fun twist that left her guests amused and engaged. Such moments underline not just the playful spirit of modern weddings, but also the potential emergence of Labubu dolls as a staple in wedding customs.

Labubu dolls are more than just toys; they tap into a broader cultural phenomenon. Their mischievous yet endearing design features wide eyes, sharp teeth, and pointed ears, striking a nostalgic chord among adults drawn to their playful aesthetics. Fully embracing the 'kidult' trend—where adult consumers indulge in toys reminiscent of their childhood—Labubus have found their way onto high-end bags and accessories, showcased by influencers and celebrities alike, from Rihanna to Blackpink’s Lisa.

This growing fascination has coincided with rising demand for Labubu dolls, complicating their availability. Following viral incidents of chaos among fans desperate to purchase these limited-edition figures, figures at Pop Mart—a company that distributes Labubus—indicated a need to pause sales in their UK stores to manage safety concerns. This decision came after reports of physical altercations in retail settings, where collectors clashed over the rare toys. As the company reassesses their distribution strategy, they aim to enhance the shopping experience that many fans find frustrating.

Consumer sentiment surrounding this decision has been mixed. One Northamptonshire-based collector, Ashley Bushey, reported spending upwards of £1,000 on Labubu toys and expressed frustration at the scarcity of these coveted collectibles. "It's a battlefield," she reflected on the high-stakes atmosphere of online sales, illustrating just how entrenched Labubu culture has become. This toxicity surrounding the rarity of featureless dolls reveals not just a desire for the toys themselves but also mirrors a societal yearning for playful escape amid contemporary uncertainties.

With young brides incorporating Labubus into their wedding days, this memorialisation of childhood joy through adult celebrations showcases a broader societal shift towards nostalgia-driven fashion and experiences. As the trend develops, the Labubu toss may well cement its status as a beloved addition to modern weddings. Through these charming rituals, couples and their guests allow a glimpse into the playful runway of adulthood, where enchantment meets celebration in a gentle nod to simpler times.

Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services