Trend Watch 2011:

So I’ve had a chance to catch up on the many magazines and reading material that have been gathering…

Here are some of my top 15 favorites. I adapted this from the magazine called “Arizona Weddings”

1.    Smaller guest lists. Host an intimate affair. It not only helps save you money, it allows you to spend more time with a cozy group of friends.

2.    Create a Wedding Website. A great opportunity for you to share detailed information for your guests in a timely and efficient manner. Build the site early, update it often.

3.    Fine Print. I’m a paper fanatic. I think it looks so uniform and coordinated when you pay attention to details of papery. Escort cards,  menu cards, welcome notes, ceremony programs, bag tags and coasters are just a few of the many options you can thread your signature theme throughout the entire soiree.

4.    Footloose. So I’ve seen couples share their first dance with a plan and others who just stumbled through. Live it up on the dance floor with confidence. Take lessons to have a choreographed routine to the first dance as Mr. and Mrs.

5.    Oooh La La. Have you heard of Boudoir photo shots? For his eyes only, this sultry session can leave him breathless.

6.    Let there be Light. Atmosphere lighting will create the romantic mood all couples wish for their wedding. Candles, pin spots, uplighting and gobo lighting are a must to bring your event to life.

7.    Be Bold. Chunky wedding jewelry is the craze in the most popular wedding magazines. If you wish for a classic strand of pearls, that’s fine too. I was just exposed to a new concept I think you’ll all love. How does the idea of recycling your bouquet into jewelry sound? Contact me for more information.

8.    Hang out in Lounge Seating. Kick up your feet and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a personalized lounge. We offer different styles and looks that have made this popular trend a must.

9.    Sweet Endings. Dessert bars as late night snacks or after dinner treats will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. These beautifully coordinated displays can also serve as your favors.

10. Swag Bags. Thank your out of town guests by offering them a pretty, yet practical package upon check in. Maps, necessary wedding info, transportation schedules, hot spots and local treats will really wow your guests the minute they hit town.

11. Entertain the Kids. Consider a separate area for the kids. A party that is uniquely their own complete with babysitting and kid-friendly food and activities will be the perfect solution for guests with families.

12. Reinventing Film. A good videographer will truly capture the emotion of the day. This has been a recent sought after request I’m hearing from all of my brides. I encourage this edited media clip for each couple I’m working with these days. You won’t regret a well produced short film of your big day.

13. Let us Entertain You. We’ve gotten really creative with this one. How about a Michael Jackson impersonator? A photo booth or PicFlips mobile studio provide a fun and clever take home for your guests.

14. Change Things Up. The gown you wear for the ceremony doesn’t have to be as formal for the reception. Change into a different party dress and get your dancing shoes one. Who says it needs to be white? Shoes have certainly shifted from matching to hot color and have caught the eve of many photographers as a must have shot.

15. Lasting Memories. Well wishes or Make a Wish Wishing Wells are great alternatives to the traditional way of recording your guests’ attendance. Personalized messages rather than old-fashioned guest books are a meaningful extra… long after the I do’s.