Currently, couples are being careful with their money. They may spend the same amount of money as in the past, but it is being allocated differently.
1. Destination weddings:
Some couples are opting to combine their wedding with their honeymoon. People who are truly important to the couple will make the trip.
2. Bling:
The ‘wow’ factor is still very much a part of the couple’s reception. Jewel tones in linens and crystals in centrepieces and florals are prominent.
3. Entertainment:
Special entertainment ensures that your wedding is talked about for years to come. Whether it’s a magician, a belly dancer or a professional singer, it will create a buzz.
4. Two or more dresses:
One for the service, one for the reception. It’s a splurge, but it’s also a trend.
5. Botox:
Everyone will wonder why you look so refreshed on your wedding day! You may look as if you were at a spa for a week.
6. Trash the dress:
When it’s over, it’s over. So some brides are having some fun after the wedding! Jump in the ocean, roll around on hills or dance in the rain!
7. Funky accessories:
Bring your personality to your outfi t by having jewellery custom-made by a friend or a cool designer. Chunky, bold pieces will make a statement.
8. Add your personality:
Dye your petticoat a different colour or wear funky-coloured shoes. How about a brightly coloured shrug or shawl?
9. Coloured wedding dresses:
Choose a pastel blush or a vibrant hue; coloured wedding dresses are being offered by all your favourite designers.
10. Rock star photo shoots:
Get a little edgy and have fun during your photo session. Those will be the photos you will enjoy the most.
11. Wedding cakes:
Cakes for 2010 are stacked, with alternating shapes. Hexagons, circles and squares are the most popular, adorned with free-hand scroll work.
12. Cup balls:
Move over cupcakes, because cupballs are the newest rage. Essentially, it is a prepared cake, mixed in with buttercream icing, rolled in a ball and covered with a glaze. Cup balls offer the perfect cake-to-icing ratio in every bite.
13. Tapas and bites:
These tiny offerings are big for the cocktail hour and the late-night snack.
14. Comfort food:
This is huge this year. A late night buffet with grilled cheese and sweet potato fries is a big hit and is replacing desserts and fruit.
15. Interactive food stations:
Small plates and casual seating make for a fun social atmosphere.
16. Grand entrance:
You’ve seen the YouTube videos; grand entrances are all the rage. Whether it’s fireworks, a marching band or riding in on a motorcycle, do something special to showcase your arrival.
17. Hourly surprises:
Keep your guests guessing by introducing a new element every hour. A special performance, changing the room colour through lighting, a poutine station, a slushy bar or a sundae bar will keep them guessing all night long.
18. A flawless event:
Couples are hiring a certified wedding coordinator to help them every step of the way, or just for the day to ensure their event goes off without a hitch.
19. Mass transportation:
Take drinking and driving out of the equation and hire a shuttle or school bus to chauffeur your guests to and from your event.
20. Inspiration boards:
Whether you prefer cut-and-paste or one of the many free websites, create an inspiration board to help you plot and envision your entire wedding.
21. 100 mile diet:
Use foods that are organic and grown close-to-home for better-tasting food that supports your local farmers.
22. Green weddings:
Follow the three Rs. You don’t have to sacrifice style to have an eco-friendly event.
23. Change the time:
Breakfasts and luncheons are a memorable and welcome change of pace. They’re more cost-effective too!
24. Location, location, location:
Choose somewhere fun and unexpected to have your reception. Whether it’s an amusement park, museum, castle or a boat, choose a place that has a personal meaning for both of you.
25. Make an exit:
Once again, couples are leaving before their guests in a grand exit rather than closing the party.
