With smaller guest lists and eight-hour affairs, weddings are taking on a more A-list status than ever before. Couples are upping their wedding wow factor with ritzy details such as elaborate orchid displays, endless desserts, and both welcome and farewell gifts. What else is topping the trends list?
Race To the Halter
The new neckline is definitely a plunging halter, and the hottest 2006 gowns go as low as you dare. We can't get enough of this gorgeous Reem Acra gown that's the epitome of glamour.
Host Guest Stars
Hand over the spotlight to your talented guests. Including friends and loved ones with a knack for music, a flair for public speaking, or even a talent for salsa dancing is the hot new way to personalize your wedding. The caveat? Don't get pushed into featuring a semi-talented family member -- make sure they're truly a first-rate act.
Saying Thanks
Favors will never lose favor, but robust welcome bags are gaining attention. These gift bags are especially welcome at weekend weddings with out-of-town guests. Fill anything from a personalized tote to a rustic handmade paper bag with carefully-chosen snacks, local sweets, and a weekend itinerary -- and leave the goodies in your guests' hotel rooms.
DIY Vows
According to officiants around the country, whether you're having a religious or civil ceremony, reciting personally-penned vows is becoming as standard as kissing the bride. Tip: Because this trend is still catching on in some places, check with your officiant first. Ask if it's okay to write your own vows. Cheers!
The hottest twist on the champagne toast is pink.
Luxe: Dom Perignon Rose 1995, $369.95/bottle; Perrier-Jouet Fleur de Champagne Rose 1999, $169.95/bottle
Moderate: Laurent Perrier Rose Brut NV, $59.95/bottle; Veuve Clicquot Rose 1999, $55.95/bottle
Modest: Nicolas Feuillatte Rose Brut NV, $34.95/bottle; Lucas Carton Rose, $35.95/bottle
Ceremony Double Takes
As interfaith and intercultural marriages become the new norm, having two ceremonies (one Chinese ceremony and one traditional ceremony, or one Hindu ceremony and one traditional ceremony) does too. Guests are invited to attend both ceremonies, and the programs explain the meanings and significance of all the cultural and religious aspects for those less familiar. This is also leading to a fashion trend: brides are wearing two gowns and changing between the ceremonies.
Pass the Dessert
In addition to delicious cake, caterers are introducing passed desserts -- hors d'oeuvres-sized confections such as mini ice cream cones and bite-sized tarts that guests can grab without having to leave the dance floor.
Eat (Chocolate) Cake
No longer just for the groom's cake, chocolate -- inside and out -- is back in a big way. Dark chocolate fondant and buttercream, as well as fondants in bright colors, are most popular. And think about adding a charming non-edible detail, such as a personalized cake topper, or a favorite edible -- the sugar monogram -- to your cake. It makes for a longer lasting keepsake than a year-old tier of your cake.
Think Purple
Last year it was teal; this year a more royal shade, purple, is in vogue in every tone -- from the lightest lavender to a deep eggplant. What better way to take your aubergine palette up a notch? With a great pattern. Think starbursts, swirls, and playful dots on anything from the invite to the bridesmaid dresses, wedding cake, and cocktail napkins.
Roadtrip Honeymoons on the Rise
The roadtrip has gone five star as honeymooners are using their postnuptial trips to rent a sleek convertible and drive through the world's most breathtaking scenery. Route 1 along the Big Sur Coast in California is a popular drive -- and one that also allows couples to split their honeymoon and experience two different types of locations and activities. As they make their way north, they'll enjoy hiking and touring the wineries before arriving in San Francisco where they'll take in a taste of the city. Roadtrips have also gone international. We love honeymoon drives through Italy's Amalfi Coast, Burgundy in France, and Germany's Black Forest.
MORE TRENDS...
... morning coats (also called cutaway coats) -- featuring long rounded off jackets with no satin detailing -- are back after a hiatus. Traditionally worn at morning or daytime weddings in lieu of a more formal tuxedo, the morning coat is showing up at all times of day or night, in both black and gray.
... the sweetheart table -- where the bride and groom can grab a quiet moment -- is in big demand.
... accents of subtle color on gorgeous gowns are popular. We love pale blue, blush pink, and light lavender.
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