A trend is defined as a general direction in which something is developing or changing. Weddings have evolved by the latest trends in décor, food, and fashion. In 2016, we have seen many trends form that can be expected to carry over and develop into the upcoming year. Here are a few forecasted influencers for 2017.

Wedding Dresses: With bridal fashion week a few weeks ago, we are seeing nontraditional colors making a bridal appearance. Blushes and dusty blues mixed with textures are a few of the styles brides will be choosing over the traditional white or ivory gowns. Fashion forward brides will be choosing styles with crop tops and two-pieces as they gain popularity. Thinking outside the box, brides will be opting for white jumpsuits and rompers than a traditional dress for smaller nuptials. The smooth flow of a bohemian styled wedding dress topped with a floral crown is definitely a look that we have seen in 2016 but one that we will continue to see brides choosing in the upcoming year.

Wedding Party Attire: Mixing and matching is a bridesmaid style that has become increasingly popular this year. Next year is forecasted to have the same trend, but the girls will also have printed dresses thrown into the mix. Similar to wedding dresses having texture, bridesmaids dresses will be seeing a spike in sequined bridesmaids gowns in a variety of colors including rose gold. We cannot forget the groomsmen! They too will have an increase in mixing and matching tuxes to fit their style.

Florals: Instead of the full-flowered wedding arrangements, brides will be selecting simpler arrangements with plenty of greenery, branches, leaves, and succulents.  As well potentially being a cheaper option, the greenery garland can have a multipurpose. Once the garland is finished with at the ceremony site, your florist can transition the greenery to the reception. Moving the garland will be easier if the ceremony and reception are on the same property. For a dramatic effect, brides will be adding a hanging floral wreath or suspending greenery above guests’ heads. In 2017, greenery will be the way for brides to go.

Food: In 2017, food pairings will be making a breakthrough. Cocktail hours will pair small bites corresponding with themed cocktails. Mini tacos paired with margaritas or sliders combined with craft beers are just a few cocktail pairing ideas that you can expect to see in the upcoming year.

Desserts: Traditionally at a wedding, there is at most two cakes, the wedding cake, and the groom’s cake. Wedding professionals are beginning to see a trend that will become widely popular in 2017. Instead of a large wedding cake and groom’s cake, couples will opt for one or two smaller cakes paired with an assortment of little desserts like specialty cookies or mini cupcakes.

Décor: 2017 will be the year of the geodes. We have already seen the famous geode cake, but we will now see an overload of geodes and agates. From cakes to invitations, place cards, and even bridal jewelry, the rock formation style will become increasingly trendy.  Mixing metallics will be more widely seen starting next year. Silver and gold are on the outs, but metals such as copper and rose gold will become more prevalent.  Adding metallics to attire, centerpieces, linens or other bits of décor will add a sparkle of bling. 

Choosing a Wedding Date:  Couples have seen Saturdays are the “norm” when selecting a date of marriage. However, Saturdays are typically the first day of the week to be chosen at a venue. Brides and grooms will need to start selecting Fridays or Sundays if they are dead set on a particular property for their wedding day.  Couples looking to book in 2017 or even 2018 are becoming more open about choosing a nontraditional date of Friday or Sunday. Choosing another day could potentially get you discounts (couples should ask before assuming) and extra time to spend with out of town guests.

Are you surprised by any of these trends? Where do you think weddings are headed in 2017? Do you believe any décor ideas were not forecasted?