Wedding Trends for 2012

As the real world approaches the end of 2011, the wonderful world of weddings is already into 2012 and onward. Just to make sure we are all on the same page, I decided to talk about Wedding Trends we are seeing for 2012.

DRESSES

• Illusion Necklines have been seen at Carolina Herrera, Alfred Angelo, and Monique Lhuillier. Their interpretations of this fashion style are completely different. My favorite is this one by Monique Lhuillier.

photo source

• Two-Tiered Skirts are a great way to hide larger hips and thighs.
• Lace Sleeves. All thanks due to Kate Middleton. (Warning: If you try this trend and your arms look like they are stuffed in sausage casing, then it is not the right trend for you.)
• Blush is an acceptable alternative to the traditional white or ivory.

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Engagement Shoots have become increasingly popular. It not only helps you get to know your photographer. It also helps you become comfortable having your photos taken together and you learn how to pose for a flattering shot. By the time your wedding day rolls around, you will feel like a professional model. 

FOOD

• Stations are making a permanent home as wedding reception dining options. Frankly, they are much more interesting than a standard buffet. Setting up stations around the room allows for traffic control and eliminates the long wait holding a plate. 
• Dessert Tables are HUGE! It will include your wedding cake plus so much more. One of our recent wedding couples even had a gelato cart wheeled in to serve the frozen treats they shared on their first date. 
• Groom's Cake... yes, its back. Since most of the wedding day is about the bride, this is a way for her to surprise him with a little reflection of his interests. 

DECOR

• Full-Blown Themes... not just color schemes. I'm talking about the other elements that make up ideas like "A Midsummer Night's Dream" or "Alice in Wonderland".
• Non-Floral Accents. Brides are taking notes from fashion and incorporating things like feathers, fabrics, and metals into the wedding decor. Jeweled accents never seem to go out of style. Bling is sticking around a little while longer. 
• Personalization does not have to mean DIY (do it yourself). We're seeing lots of personal touches that are created by professionals. You can have a monogram created by a graphic designer to be strategically displayed from your stationery to your wedding cake decorations and dance floor lighting. You can name the tables after all of your favorite songs and have your invitation designer print them for you with the same font and paper stock as your invitations, programs, and menu cards. You can even hire a writer to help you create the perfect vows.

I'm sure we'll touch on a lot of these topics in more detail later. For now, please enjoy the holiday season with your friends, family, and loved ones. 

Muchos Smooches!