January 9, 2012

Wedding Trends for 2012

What better way to start the New Year than with my predictions for trends in 2012!

When it comes to the way we create the look and feel of a wedding or civil partnership, it all comes down to fashion and the way that fashion is moving. The most famous or infamous (depending on your point of view) being “Vintage.” What started a few years as a quirky tag which some “antique” dealers used to make junk sound less like, well….junk has become big business. Everything from fashion and interior design to publishing and home wares has grown to accommodate the trend.

In terms of weddings and civil partnerships, here are my 5 top tips for the year ahead:

Escort Card Tables

I absolutely love escort card tables. What started as a trend in America has made it to our shores and, year on year I see them sweeping aside those boring old table plans. Instead of having everyones name on one large sheet of card (which is usually too big for the easel and ends up bowing), escort cards show the name of each guest and which table they will be seated at. The wonderful thing about them is that you can create your ideal table layout anyway you like according to your venue. Perfectly lined up for a smart city wedding or hanging on ribbons in a tree for a country celebration.

Dessert Tables

This is a trend that I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of in 2012. A more grown up version of the Candy Bar and another import from the States, this is a fabulous idea for couples with sweet teeth, who want to spoil their guests with a whole array of desserts rather than just a piece of cake. Think individual trifles, meringues, cake pops and macarons. All bite size and beautifully displayed to complement your colour scheme. Oh, and if you want to include cup cakes, make sure they’re really small!

Photojournalistic Photography

The watch words here are “keep it natural.” This is a trend which is all about capturing the moment. Without being contrived or staid, good photojournalistic photography can put even the most camera shy at their ease and capture those perfect spontaneous moments that make a celebration so special. The E Shoot is also on trend for 2012 and is a great way for couples to get used to the idea of being photographed before their wedding and learning what style of photography they feel comfortable with. Just you, your photographer and a location of your choice!

Stationery

Quality and craftsmanship are key for 2012. Its all in the detail with letterpress stationery creating that all important wow factor. With the look and feel of something that has been individually crafted by a skilled artisan, letterpress is perfect for couples who want to style their day with something a million miles away from formulaic and characterless mass produced stationery. Create the look with Save the Date, RSVP, Escort and Menu cards.

Flowers

Its all about nature in the floral world in 2012! It may sound strange, but relaxed informality is at the forefront of floral design. The look of effortlessly arranged country flowers which look as though most people could do them (but most can’t) is leading the way. Rich textures with flowers, plants and foliage are perfect for romantic celebrations and are a million miles away from some of the more contrived creations that have been seen over the last few years. Seasonal flowers that haven’t been flown half way round the world are also driving this latest trend.

Photo Credits:

Escort Card Table – www.scarletpetal.typepad.com

Dessert Table – www.temptingcake.com

Photography – www.helenmaybanks.com

Stationery – www.artcadia.co.uk

Flowers – www.euphoricflowers.co.uk