2012 Wedding Trends

With the first few days of the fresh New Year, always comes the hundreds of emails and questions of “what’s hot” this year in the wedding industry. This is always a hard question to answer because it varies so much by region, budget and frankly, opinion; but there are always a few things that I see every year that stand out. So here are my top 6 wedding trends for 2012:

Understated versus the Big Blowout – This started out of necessity when the economy took a dive but it is really taking hold and I don’t see it going away any time soon. Brides are seeing that they can have a beautiful wedding without spending all the crazy amounts of money that has been spent in the past. Choosing to follow the “less is more” philosophy when planning their weddings is not only saving couples money but making the day more personal and intimate. You can see this in the extra stuff like favors which are often the first thing to go. But Brides and Grooms are taking more time customizing their centerpieces and place settings with simple yet very effective things like their monogram, pictures from childhood or even love letters.

Eco-friendly – This is also a big one that seems like it is going to stay around for a while. Yes, there are Brides that are really passionate about having a “green wedding” and go all out in order to be green as possible. Beware however, going green does not mean going less expensive. If you intend on having a completely eco-friendly wedding be prepared to shell out a lot more money. But if you are a Bride who is conscious of the environment and would like to do as much as you can without going broke or serving wheat grass in a skinny glass, there are plenty things you can do like using local vendors, growing some of your own food and re-purposing older items into your décore.

Vintage – I really like this trend. I have had Brides go really vintage and unique with their weddings, but just like going green you can add little bits and pieces to your day that will save you money and have guests saying “wow!” The big thing about this trend is going to things you already have. Antiques (everything from old books, unique glass jars, unusual fabrics and historical items) are a great way to add personality to the event. Consider it recycling and go through your attic as well as your Grandma’s. You have no idea what treasures you will find there. Thrift stores are also a fabulous place to find gems that you may have never thought to use. All it takes is your imagination and old stuff to create a show stopping wedding-on the cheap!

Church Alternatives – I really see a lot of couples opting out of the traditional church ceremony and looking for something different. It can be as simple as having the ceremony in the reception hall to getting married outside in a beautiful grotto. Obviously, the destination wedding is still popular but can be expensive. I see this as another way for the couple to mix things up a bit. I am not crazy at all about having the ceremony at Walmart or Taco Bell, but I have seen the reservoir, a mansion or large estate, park, barn and orchard all done well. There are lots of creative choices out there.

Non-traditional Receptions – I think this trend also started out in order to save money but because of the creativity, it is staying around. Receptions are not always the big theatrical productions of the past. Brides are now opting for shorter, less extravagant parties like pastry receptions. When they do this they lessen the cost of the food because they are not having a full meal. Then they don’t need as many tables, linens, centerpieces and so on. Another popular choice is a nightclub reception. The couple will choose to get married later in the evening and party the night away in a nightclub setting. Again, tradition is just not as important as bringing in your personality and fitting in your budget.

Making it Your Own – Finally, it all comes down to this – Brides and Grooms are really letting go of old expectations and rules and making their event their own. This is a great thing because the meaning behind their love story is starting to be told in a better way and guests are enjoying the unique experiences that they are having at each and every wedding they attend. Remember that this wedding is all about the two of you starting your marriage and as long as it isn’t tacky, illegal or dangerous I say make your own trend and love every minute of it!

Here’s to your Blissful 2012 wedding!