If you're one of the lucky ladies that got engaged today, or over the holidays, it's time to start planning! We're breaking down the hottest wedding trends for 2012 so that you can look your best, and have the wedding you deserve. We found inspiration from wedding blogger Mark Kingsdorf and guru Susan Southerland, and added some extra tidbits of our own.
From the decorations down to the perfect gown, we have covered everything you need to know in order to have the most wonderful and up-to-date wedding!
1. The Gown The hottest topic in bridal fashion this year is the colored wedding gowns that hit runways this winter. Vera Wang (bottom) came out with black and nude gowns for her Fall 2012 Bridal Collection. And Elie Saab (top) added pastel colors to his Spring 2012 Couture Collection. Other new gorgeous gown trends are illusion necklines, sleeves, and lace (all inspired by the Royal Wedding of course!)
3. Bridal Fashion Comfort is in! Many brides are customizing their dresses to maximize comfort. Add straps to your strapless dress so you don't have to adjust as often. Wear some pretty flats at your reception or outdoor ceremony to stay comfy but still stylish.
4. Makeup At your makeup trial, experiment with fashionably bolder lip colors or smoky eyes. Have fun with your makeup, but stay true to yourself!
5. Cake Break with tradition by showcasing your favorite desserts. Instead of the traditional tiered wedding cake, consider serving your guests pies or a dessert buffet.
6. Theme Vintage elegance is IN. Include details that match your decor and style like a black and white dance floor, antique apothecary jars, lace, feathers, or vintage cars. A vintage wedding can be enhanced by a neutral color scheme (black and white, champagne, or cream) with a pop of color.
7. Favors One wedding favor that is right on-trend is a dessert serving station. Your guests can pick cookies, candy (try custom taffy sticks!), or other treats to put into a goodie bag that they take home.
8. Decor Theatrical backdrops and lighting are an elegant trend for your reception. Use floor to ceiling draping to add ambience, or to transform a less-than-perfect space.
9. Champagne Instead of traditional Champagne (only produced in France), consider Prosecco, an Italian white sparkling wine. This bubbly beverage is mostly used for toasts, but is also being given out in goodie bags. We also recommend searching your favorite local wineries for their own version of "California Champagne" to add a local flavor to your celebration.
10. Meal Fun food is definitely trending this year. Find a catering company that will cook food at the tables in front of your guests, or choose creative serving options. Also consider having your caterer use family recipes that have meaning to your and your groom. It's all about entertaining and Wowing your guests.
11. Photobooths are always a big hit. They are a perfect way to capture the fun (and funny) personalities of your guests while they enjoy the evening. The pictures can be printed with a custom border and used as favors for your guests, plus you can have a second set printed and use it as your guestbook.
12. Goodnight Kiss Traditionally this was a Champagne cocktail made of only the best ingredients. But for 2012 weddings, the Goodnight Kiss is being redefined to be a small snack or beverage that is served as guests leave the reception. Consider a comforting glass of milk and a small cookie to bid farewell, or a decadent espresso or mocha to get the afterparty started. Or pay tribute to the original Goodnight Kiss and serve a bubbly cocktail and toast to your guests before they find a cab home. Whatever you choose, this will leave a great last impression on your guests.
Happy Planning!
~ Jennifer
Intern for Lavender Blue Events
Intern for Lavender Blue Events
