I love all things weddings and want to share some fresh ideas that I’ve seen and some that I’ve thought of. Each year new trends for the ceremony, dress and reception are released, but I think showing your personality is always the best trend. If you are planning your wedding and you are looking for something “new” to go with the something “blue” I think these 5 new wedding trends are great ideas for the modern day bride:
Venue
First you need a venue. If you don’t want a church wedding possible locations can be a botanic garden/arboretum, ranch, lake, vineyard, museum, or theater. If you were high school sweethearts why not go back to where it all began and host your wedding at your high school. You probably can’t have liquor, but that will help cut back on costs. We hosted my husband’s family reunion at the middle school he worked at and it was great! Destination weddings are also very popular because you are already at the honeymoon location and most resorts offer free incentives such as a free ceremony or complimentary breakfast for the couple.
Parties
If you like to party, consider hosting a weekend celebration. Festivities can include a pre-party breakfast, lunch or dinner with just family or friends, or the bridal party. The day after the wedding can also include the same thing or enjoying an activity as a group such as golf, a spa day or bowling.
What to Wear
Your gown. Your wedding dress does not have to be white. There is no law that says you can’t get married in a colored dress. Designers are creating fabulous frocks in colors such as pink, blue, black and white and gold like the one shown here by designer Ramona Keveza. Last weekend while dress shopping with my cousin, I saw a pale gray wedding gown at David’s Bridal that was absolutely gorgeous!
Food
At the reception, instead of a buffet of the traditional chicken, serve a dinner of favorite foods you and your fiancé enjoy. Replace the traditional round tables with long family style ones. If you want Chinese food, serve it. New trends include finger foods such as sliders, food trucks and a signature drink. If you don’t want one big wedding cake, have several different flavored cakes propped on cake plates. Or skip the cake idea and serve your favorite desserts at a dessert bar.
Do You
Hate the idea of the garter and bouquet toss? Don’t do it. At a wedding I attended, the bride presented her bouquet to her sister along after a beautiful speech. Also, don’t be afraid of bold colors. If you are not a “pink” girl like me, use whatever colors you like. Professional dancers, belly dancers, a local entertainer and photo booths with props are popular new forms of entertainment at receptions.
Whatever you decide, keep in mind that your wedding day is a special event between you and your loved one so tailor it to your personalities. I hope these ideas inspire you so your day can be enjoyed with your family, friends and most importantly with each other.
BMWK – What ideas would you like to share with other brides?