It’s no secret that summer is the most popular time to tie the knot. But this season brides are turning up the heat with unexpected details and show-stopping surprises that could rival any royal wedding. Ahead are eight wedding trends you’re bound to see all summer long.
Pops of Color
Color is back in a big way, but don’t expect anything too matchy-matchy. Couples are foregoing tradition and planning their nuptials around a mood, rather than a color scheme, to determine the look and feel of their big day.
So, let’s talk palette. Pastels will always be considered classic, but high-contrast hues and moody jewel tones are going to take centerstage, from the floral arrangements to the bridesmaid dresses. After all, ultra violet is the Pantone Color of the Year! But brides are taking it a step further this summer. Pops of color are showing up on table linens, glassware, and even candles.
Dramatic Backdrops
Floral walls primed for photo ops dominated the wedding circuit in 2017. This season, dramatic backdrops are still on-trend, they’re just taking different form—namely, commissioned murals, neon signs, and Instagram-worthy escort card displays.
Transparent Décor
Heads up! See-through décor is making a major comeback, particularly in Lucite chairs and transparent cocktail tables. This nod to mod adds a touch of glamour without being too distracting. It’s a perfect choice for modern weddings or couples who gravitate toward a clean, Scandinavian aesthetic.
Interactive Food Stations
Food trucks are here to stay, but couples are upping the ante with self-service food and beverage stations at the reception. Think dessert tables, help yourself cocktails, and custom coffee bars. No bartender necessary.
Small Wedding Parties
Can’t decide who will be your maid of honor? You don’t have to! Some brides are taking a page out of Meghan Markle’s playbook and skipping the bridal party altogether, while others are enlisting one or two close family members and friends. If you’re on a tight budget, this is one way to save money on bridal party gifts and bouquets.
Nontraditional Venues
Summer is prime time for outdoor weddings, but ceremonies are moving indoors to nontraditional venues, like art galleries, industrial warehouses, and boxing gyms. (Yes, you heard that right!)
Crystals
If you’re going to a bohemian wedding, chances are you’ll run across healing gemstones in one way or another. New Age brides are creating crystal centerpieces, gifting gemstone jewelry to bridesmaids, and even donning crystal crowns. They’re sure to add a bespoke touch to ceremonies—and a little magic too!
Custom Guest Entertainment
Weddings are as much about the guests as the couple now. Traditional wedding favors are taking a backseat to experiential gifts, like cabaret singers, tarot readers, astrologers, and aerial acts. We’ve even seen theatrical performances. It’s the dawn of a new era.
Want to stay on top of wedding trends and be in the know about the next big thing for your nuptials? Book a ticket to the Great Bridal Expo in a city near you.
