2011 Wedding Trends

The 2011 wedding trend predictions look to a return to vintage and classic styles, an upswing in backyard receptions and a mixture of tech-savvy and eco-friendly weddings. The top wedding trends for each year are based on industry research, polling and trend-spotting by top wedding vendors and wedding professionals. Here are some of the trends to expect for weddings this year.

Sophisticated elegance returns, and this year we will journey back to basics. Wedding decor will be simple and understated with modern design elements and personal touches. Scripted calligraphy, custom monograms and classic wedding cakes embody this trend. Brides will wear pearls and grooms will ditch the Converse in favor of more tasteful wedding day attire.

 

 

 

 

METALLICS

Metallics are definitely the “it” color of 2011 weddings. In the early planning processes, I’m seeing them used in floral arrangements and fashion, as well as table linens and catering. This is a very fun color palette to add a nice pop of energy to your wedding. Whether you select two bright hues with a metallic accent or several metallic shades used together, bright color palettes combined with metallics are huge this year.

Since metallics make such a bold statement on their own, couples will scale back “over-the-top” decor in favor of a more restrained style aesthetic.

 

 

 

 

BOLD PALETTES

More in-depth color coordination is also a trend. Brides are still wearing white most of the time but the bridesmaids are wearing bold, bright and vibrant colors. Accenting classic black with a bright color is also a trending idea. Brides are also combining two and three colors instead of just one complementing color. The classic white and black with accentual accessories and bouquets in vibrant colors are always a popular standard regardless of wedding trends. Although violet purple and magenta are increasing in popularity, the orange wedding theme remains a favorite from 2010.

 

 

 

 

TEXTURES

From the dress to table décor, textured fabrics bring a sumptuous, opulent vibe to this year’s weddings. Wedding gowns feature 3-D appliqué, layered, light fabrics (tulle, lace, chiffon), romantic ruffles, oversized floral and illusion fabric with eye-catching beading. Textured linens are layered to dress up reception tables, chair covers may be embroidered or beaded and branchy centerpieces and floral arrangements will captivate wedding guests.

 

 

WEDDING INVITATIONS GO GREEN

The green weddings movement continues full speed ahead. From totally paperless wedding invitations and save-the-dates, to stationery printed on 100% recycled paper, invitations have truly gone green.

 

 

 

 

 

OUTDOOR VENUES

Couples marrying this year are gravitating toward outdoor ceremony and reception venues. The raw, minimal backdrop of an outdoor setting leaves room for personalization and customization—a major perk for creative, hands-on nearlyweds. Lakeside venues, vineyard locations, country clubs and spaces situated alongside sprawling mountains dominate, and they’ll be spruced up with personalized touches that represent the bride and groom.

 

 

 

 

CULTURAL WEDDING DETAILS

At long last, brides and grooms are embracing and showcasing their unique cultural traditions and ethnicity. Whether it’s a religious wedding ceremony ritual, traditional wedding day garb, cultural cuisine infused throughout the reception dinner or wedding decor with bold, ethnic prints, showcasing these traditions is a big trend.

 

 

 

 

REVVED-UP WEDDING RECEPTIONS

Does the best day of your lives have to end so early? Not for couples and guests in 2011, that’s for sure! Couples are planning a post-reception after party lasting into the wee hours of the night with drinks, entertainment, more dancing and snacks so wedding guests can party all night long. Consider even hiring a pizza vendor or hot dog truck to be staged outside as your guests leave the party—what a great treat! 

Alongside chic color palettes, pulling together a trendy wedding is all in the details. Plan it all right down to the last feature! If time is an issue and details aren’t your forte, hire a wedding planner to help transform your wedding dreams into reality. Bring the focal point to the wedding cake table, add character and a personal touch to your place cards with an original look inspired by you and your grooms’ personalities, give that special touch to the décor of the chairs—think about all the small details that will make an extraordinary difference.

No matter what your style, consider these trends when planning your 2011 wedding. Keep in mind that your wedding will be one of the fondest memories of your life. Share the story of your romance, your special love and your hope for the future with your family and friends. Personalize your wedding, make it sophisticated and make it dazzling!