Our 2016 Wedding Trends!

{Photos left to right: Clary Pfeiffer Photo, Tamara Gruner Photography}

We are officially a month into 2016 and have already seen so many exciting trends for the upcoming year! Looking into the new year with fresh eyes and seeing the possibilities for our weddings is one of the most thrilling aspects of our job. Usually the new year symbolizes the time when we start kicking our planning and design into high gear for our summer weddings and this year is no different! The new year brings with it new trends and colors, including the 2016 Pantone Colors of the Year. Rose Quartz and Serenity are two beautiful and versatile colors that can be used in many aspects of wedding design and decor. Along with the fresh colors of 2016, we did a round up of a few of the exciting trends we expect to see this year, and a decor idea that we think should be a trend in the coming year!

Bright Metallics & Soft Tones
This year we expect to see more of the beautiful rose gold and copper that were present in wedding decor last year. Rose gold sequined linens complemented with soft cream and blush tones in the florals and place settings is an idea we can’t wait to see come to life! For the couple who wants the bright pop of metallics, but also is interested in a more natural palette, copper accents are the answer. What color combination is better than beautiful copper paired with earthy greens and soft neutrals?

{Photos left to right: 5ive5ifteen Photography, Roots of Life Photography, EnV Photography}

Organic Aesthetic
So many brides are going back to their roots for their wedding decor. Organic styles such as “just picked” bouquets peppered with succulents is becoming more and more popular. Color palettes including earthy greens, ivory, soft blush or deep marsala are as popular as ever. Boho chic is in! This organic aesthetic also reaches to the style of bridesmaids dresses and even bridal gowns. Bridesmaids wearing mix-matched dresses with different lengths, necklines, or tones while the bride wears an ethereal, light and flowing dress is a look we can’t get enough of.

{Photos left to right: Austin Gros Photography, Of Georgia Photography, Diana McGregor Photography}

Wedding Gowns
In the past we’ve seen structured gowns in the spotlight, but this year lace & floral appliqué, tiered gowns, and feathered skirts are in! Like we stated previously, the organic look is one many brides are leaning towards this year, and we couldn’t be more excited! Sleeved dresses are also becoming a trend. Brides seem to be steering away from strapless and embracing the three quarter length sleeve with subtle lace or sparkling detail.

{Photos left to right: The Robertson’s Photography, Kurt Boomer Photography}

Untraditional Wedding Cakes
The end of 2015 gave us a glimpse into what to expect this year when it comes to wedding cakes. Some brides are straying away from the traditional, multi-tiered wedding cake and loving the “naked cake” trend. This style gives the cake a more natural, and once again, organic feel! Couples can personalize these “naked cakes” with embellishments such as succulents, pops of brightly colored flowers, and berries. Some couples, however, are abandoning the cake completely! Pies, cheesecakes, macaroons, and doughnuts are popping up as sweet treats for the wedding guests.

{Photos left to right: Our Labor of Love by Heidi, Sarah Tonkin Photography, Kate’s Party Ideas}

Customization of Details
Couples are taking advantage of their ability to customize decor this year as well. Everyone wants their wedding to be unique; a day that represents their personal style. Couples are finding that the best way to do this is with complete customization of ceremony and reception details. From a close friend or family member officiating the ceremony to signature cocktails at the reception, customization is here to stay. We’ve also seen couples go bold with decor. Large custom built chandeliers, flower walls as a ceremony backdrop (thanks Kim & Kanye!), and boldly colored, intricately designed goblets paired with a custom created charger are a few of our favorite trends!

{Photos left to right: Lauren Gabrielle Photography, Melissa Fuller Photography}

KKWE Trend Alert!
There is one more decor idea that we think should be a trend, so let’s make it happen! We love the idea of mixed and matched reception seating! As an alternative to traditional ballroom seating consisting of rounds or rectangular tables, why not consider an eclectic mix of farm tables, lounge seating arrangements, high tops, and regular tables to create an untraditional seating arrangement! This seating plan can be dressed up with traditional decor elements to be more formal or can be paired with earthy florals, hanging lanterns and geometric elements to create a boho-chic environment for your guests. We want to see more of this versatile mix and match style in the new year! Tie the look together with cohesive decor, and you have a one-of-a-kind event!

“For 2016 wedding gowns you will see fine tailoring and many of the beautiful details such as lace appliqué, layering tiers floral and illusion necklines.  Wedding Cakes seem to be important to some, but I’m finding that in initial conversations that our brides are wanting more of a variety of sweet treats.  For colors, although Blush and Cream seem to still be the trend, we are beginning to see more couples step outside of that box and bring in vibrant colors.  Laser cut signage seems to be coming around more, this allows our couples to introduce some personal touches for more then just menus on the table. These photos are a great example. What a wonderful year to get married!” – Kelly Karli
{Photos left to right: Ryan Scott Weddings, Sonya Khegay, Scott Clark Photo}