2016 Trends: New Takes on Classic Themes

Keeping it “classic with a twist” is a surefire way to create a modern wedding that’s still timeless. Here’s what’s happening in wedding trends for 2016:

Style: Soft & Saturated

Brides are still wearing gowns, in fact, they’re wearing more than one (princess at the ceremony, party at the reception)! But if you’re keeping it classic and gown-only, you’ll see layers of lace, illusion backs with fine detailing and buttons, all sorts of sleeves, and long trains paired with cathedral-length veils. You can find them in white along with an array of light colors like gold, blush, grey, and blue.  Such soft, neutral looks carry over into the bridal party, with bridesmaid dresses mixing and matching. When they’re not wearing a barely-there color, you’ll find bridesmaids in rich jewel tones.

Wedding themes: Pinterest Pretty & Keeping It Classic

We’re living in the days of Pinterest-loving brides, so it comes as little surprise that DIY weddings are still very trendy. While the classic wedding is still popular, couples are also choosing reception venues that allow for a lot of creativity – sites where you pay to rent the space, but are responsible for bringing your own décor, catering, and other rentals. More brides are setting aside large chunks of their budget strictly for decorations. You’ll see elements like crystal chandeliers, eclectic place settings, and Instagram-worthy lounge areas staged with vintage furniture.

Flowers: Loose & Lush

The floral industry is experiencing a return to the cascading bridal bouquet. Brides want flowers with a natural feeling: lush, loose, and looking like they were just plucked from a garden. Brides can pin charms to their bouquet ribbons or photo lockets in remembrance of deceased loved ones.

When it comes to flower colors, anything goes! The traditional white bridal bouquet is also never out of style, but it’s getting a bit of an update as florists mix shades of white and blush for texture and interest. Bridesmaid bouquets are taking a cue from the mix-and-match dress trend, varying to suit each girl’s personality.

Food: Unique Eats

The traditional sit-down, three- or five-course meal is experiencing a sort of revolution. While you’ll still see these formal dinners at chic, classic weddings, many more brides are also turning food into an interactive event. Family-style meals and food trucks are increasingly common. Dinners that feature locally-grown and in-season ingredients are also very popular. These more casual, farm-to-table dinners go hand-in-hand with family-style dining to foster a comfortable, homey environment.

When it comes to desserts, “interactive” is still the name of the game. Dessert tables of pie, ice cream, candy, or cupcakes reign supreme. Some couples choose to have both a classic wedding cake (it’s tradition!) along with a dessert bar just for fun. And as food trucks are gaining popularity, so are dessert “trucks” like gelato carts and gourmet popsicle stands.

Then there’s the late-night snack – a treat that many guests have almost come to expect nowadays. Couples can go greasy and delicious (pizza) or offer a home-town specialty (ex: cheesesteaks in Philadelphia) at any style of wedding. B