The Modern and Dramatic Bride

Modern brides know how to make a statement. Whether via show-stopping centerpieces, an extraordinary display of fabric and lighting or a bold color carried throughout the day, newly engaged couples are choosing elements that are designed to make jaws drop. Selecting the component that makes the most impact on your guests can be difficult. The choices are endless, so it's important to consider what it is you love most.

Fresh cut floral is a natural choice for many brides, and a fabulous way to make a dramatic statement on your special day. A modern trend when using fresh floral is to 'feature the bloom.' Opt for the blossom that means the most to you and use it exclusively throughout the day. A striking arm bouquet of standard Calla Lilies paired with centerpieces of tall glass vases filled with identical lilies is an example of choosing one remarkable flower and letting it take center stage.

Fabric treatments are an outstanding way to add drama to your reception site. These special treatments can serve many purposes. They can bring your favorite color into the event in a bold way, they can create intimacy and warmth in a room that seems a bit too large or cold, or they can call attention to a particular area of the reception i.e. behind the head table, over the dance floor or near your cake. The possibilities are endless.

Lighting is another unique way to add modern sophistication to your day. Soft, romantic candlelight can create a chic look at your ceremony and reception sites when done in abundance. Line the aisle with a row of 10-hour votives and cover every stationary surface in your reception site with candles of all shapes and sizes. The candlelight will create a warm glow in the space and make for stunning photographs. An additional opportunity to lend a modern air to your reception would be to utilize Par and LED lighting. Shining LED lights in vibrant tones onto fabric panels or in the four corners of the room creates an atmosphere unlike any other. Par lights, each with an attached gobo featuring a favorite pattern or your new monogram, can be shone on to a blank ceiling or wall. Furthermore, pin-lighting your centerpieces is a sleek and impressive way to not only showcase your arrangements but also to generate dramatic ambiance.

Last but certainly not least, feature things you love. Modern brides know that it is the unique elements that only she and her fiance can bring to the day that set the tone. Giving out your husband's favorite candy as favors, serving Mojitos because that is what you and your new husband shared on your first date, or creating one-of-a-kind table numbers featuring the two of you, being a modern bride means sharing all of the wonderful things that make the two of you the new Mr. & Mrs.!