2012 TRENDS
Wedding Gowns & Accessories - The focus will be more on the texture and layers of the dress. Trumpet skirts (kick out at the bottom) will be the most popular. Victorian style dresses will common in 2012. Look for long sleeved ceremony dresses. Brides will opt for a second, flirty dress to change into for the reception. To stay within budget, less will be spent on the ceremony gown allowing money to purchase the second dress. For accessories, chockered pearls and lace necklaces will be adorned. Tiera's and veils are out; lavish hair accessories will compliment either updo's or long hair left down. Necklaces and hair accessories will compliment simple dresses; whether there is one or two dresses.
Engagement Rings - Colorful gemstones accented with diamonds instead of diamonds being the main stone. Platinum and white gold are top choices, but mixed metals/twisted bands arrived in the industry in 2010 and are expected to be big sellers again in 2012. Diamonds are an investment, therefore, couples are choosing the engagement ring together as they would any major purchase.
Flowers, Decor & Trends - Going back to basics. Spending an extra few days on your honeymoon is in! Smaller guest lists and making the event more intimate is becoming important. Couples are choosing to omit parent's business acquaintances and friends and focusing on personal touches. Outdoor ceremonies are a HUGE favorite! Brides and grooms are deciding to make the event more personal. Large, real floral arrangements are in the past. Candlelight is the simplest and least expensive way to make your reception have a "wow" factor. Candlelight adds romance and sets the mood for the evening. Couples are wanting more fun and less time for their guests standing around. Parents are now being included at the bridal table. Brides and grooms wish to honor their parents throughout the evening. Vidography has been omitted the last 4 years and made it's comeback in 2011 and will again be popular in 2012. You will begin to see "goodnight" stations that consist of coffee, chocolates, mini doughnuts, bottled water, cookies, bagels and sometimes even the Sunday paper on the table for guests to help themselves to on the way out. This will also take the place of having favors. Invitations - handmade invites with pocket folds will be a favorite. Longer engagements are permitting the couples to contribute their own creativity to their event.
Cakes - Tall cakes - 5 to 7 layers will be most popular with the size of each layer being smaller. Rolled fondant is out, butter cream icing is taking presidence. Adornments are back on cakes in 2012. Look for ruffles, beading and glitter. Cakes will be incredible works of art. Dessert stations will be offered with elaborate displays of the items.
Dinners - The time of the reception will determine the food served to guests. Friday evening and Sunday afternoon weddings with appetizers only will be common in 2012.
Drinks - Open bars will always be found at receptions. Liquor stations, wine stations, coffee and tea stations make it big in 2012. In addition to the serving of full glass drinks - sample tastings will be offered in liquor and wine after dinner. Coffee stations will offer all of the flavored creamers as well as tea in different flavors.
Going Green - Growing flowers for centerpieces or bouquets. Recycling family gowns to create a "one-of-a-kind" wedding dress. Edible wedding favors. Using potted plants for centerpieces; tulips in the spring, mums in the fall. You can then give them to guests or plant them at your new home and enjoy them for years to come.
Colors - Sapphire blue, violets, yellows & golds, royal blue & charcoal are to be favorites. Neutral color pallettes with a bright, luxurious color for the accent.
Bouquets - Big blooms with vintage jewels or tassells.
Most Importantly - this is YOUR wedding day. Use the colors, styles, and flavors YOU like. That's the great thing about weddings - imagination. Don't be afraid to throw out ideas to YOUR wedding professionals. We are here to help YOU make YOUR wedding day everything YOU want it to be. Have fun planning!!!
Joy