As you are looking to creating the vision that you want for your wedding day – all that really matters is what you like and what message speaks of your personalities. But no one wants to be out of touch with those fresh new ideas that might just be a perfect definition of your relationship.
So, how do we know what’s hot and not?
October’s Wedding MBA conference brought together many of the leaders in the wedding industry who shared what they are hearing, seeing, and, quite frankly, pushing for trends this year. Ahead of the game at the time, we now see their predictions trending everywhere from bridal publications, to Pinterest, to local wedding preferences!
So, we’ve done our research and pulled together what we see trending as the top 5 considerations for 2018 – and the 5 trends it would be wise to consider as so not 2018.
Top 5:
Industrial Spaces: Industrial venues have been around for some time, but this year they move from a consideration to the perfect blank slate for creating your special look. A bit more urban and hip when compared to the “rustic-barn” space, the industrial space can be dressed up or dressed down, and are more convenient than an outdoor event that always requires a Plan B.
New Age Boho: Think dressed up Bohemian here with rich velvet a central theme – even in summer. 1970’s macramé will make it’s come back in a big way everywhere including tablescapes, backdrops and wearables. Wood and greenery will continue to be a go-to for décor. And the newly revived Celtic handfasting ritual will become a much seen – and much loved – part of the wedding ceremony.
It’s Your Wedding Party: Wedding parties will trend smaller – no more endless “clown car” bridal party processionals! And those wedding parties will be “gender-less” – no longer will it be boys to the right and girls to the left, but you’ll see more bridesmen and groomsmaids. Because special friends are special, regardless of the gender.
Statement Bars: The bar is now a central piece of the reception. Personalized bar spaces sporting couple logos, vintage camper vans, or overstuffed seating are all the rage. Add in some regional craft beers, local wines, and whiskey, gin or tequila flights make for a celebration worth remembering!
Lighting, Lighting, Lighting: Lighting makes a statement, so you can use it to your advantage to create the mood that you desire. Industrial and outdoor venues look fabulous with the addition of Edison bulbs. Just a few strings of lights transform the space from plain to party. Or use lights in the border of trees or hedges to create interesting depth and a fairy-like quality to your space or venue entrance.
Just say no to:
Rustic: Stark, hard core rustic is out! No more burlap and lace or Mason jars please. Upscale your rustic desires by going Boho or Woodsy instead.
Nude Shoes: Shoes are a great way to make a statement (but no more Converse!) – so nude is – quite frankly – simply boring. A pop of color – even if just on the sole (Louis Vuitton red soles anyone?) – goes a long way to add personality, and is an opportunity to get a great pair of shoes to remember this special day – and that goes for the groom as well!
Shiny Metals and Glitter: Shiny is out this year – instead look to copper (great for that Boho look!), brushed silver or matte rose gold. Something a little less glitzy and more elegantly understated is what’s in.
Naked Cakes: Out with the naked and in with the “semi-naked”. Seriously – just a thin swipe of buttercream frosting and then icing on top and dripping over the sides. A little more than before, but a little less than the standard. And look for creative twists like multiple cake flavors, the groom’s cake (it’s still in), or so are doughnut bars and uniquely crafted ice cream bars.
Sit-down Meals: Sit down multi-course meals are out for wedding receptions. Rather – food trucks are still all the rage – as are build-it-yourself appetizer stations. And comfort food bites are so in – think high-end mac n’ cheese, sliders, or bacon-wrapped anything!
Obviously, whether you choose to follow the latest trends or not is totally up to you – tradition never really goes out of style in the wedding arena. Do what you like best … and show it off with class and aplomb!
And what better way to set the stage for your classy event than with your wedding website. Our next post will share our Tips for Creating an awesome and guest-helpful wedding website.
