Top 7 Wedding Trends for 2012

The New Year is just around the corner and if you’re a bride to be, you’re likely wondering what is going to be hot for 2012.  Here are the top trends for next year:

1. A strong Royal influence is expected for 2012.  From the style of Kate Middleton’s wedding dress, to her sisters’ white bridesmaid gown, the comeback of hats and all things royal, you’re sure to see the influence of Kate and Williams’ nuptials at many weddings.

2. A very popular idea at weddings is specialty stations.  From dessert bars, candy bars, photo booths, or different stations set up for various food items.  E.g.  Hors d’oeuvres bar, pasta bar, meat station, etc.  If you choose to go this route, pick something that reflects yours and your fiance’s personality.

3. Jewels are making a comeback and they’re everywhere – from the bride’s hair to the centrepieces to the jewellery of the bridal party. Just make sure you don’t overdo it and look as if you’ve been hit by the bling fairy!

4. Black is back.  Trends are toward black tie, fancier venues, more ornate, and more formal.  Many brides are opting to go with a more formal look after several years of casual weddings being more popular. And black tie doesn’t necessarily mean that everything is “black”..  a white palette is very popular for weddings due to the influence of celebrity weddings (Kim Kardashian’s for example) and of course, the Royal Wedding.

5. Wedding themes are making a huge comeback.. Whether it be a beach theme, western or whatever is your “thing”, themed weddings highlight the personalities of the couples involved and provide some structure and fun to the wedding.  Think about what reflects yours and your fiance’s personality (Hollywood glamour?  Perhaps a wine tasting wedding?) and build on that theme.

6. Dessert tables seem to be far more popular than the traditional wedding cake.  Instead of having a large cake that has to be cut and served to all your guests, consider having a dessert station with various petit fours, miniature cakes, truffles and other delights – there is sure to be something for everyone!  But consider that many will take more than one to “try” more than one taste.  Make sure you order enough!

7. Surprises tend to be a big trend.  Whether it’s surprising your guests with something unusual (like your dinner being catered by a food truck) or fireworks, or maybe a ferris wheel, brides are continually looking for ways to personalize their wedding and get that extra “wow” factor.

Regardless of what the trends are, your wedding is a once in a lifetime experience, so make it your own!  Consider your likes, dislikes, hobbies and make your special day reflect your personality.