Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

2012 Bridal Trends - Funky Centerpieces

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Photo by: Genevieve DeManio Photography

Are you newly engaged and planning your destination wedding for next year? We’ve got the early scoop on what everyone’s going to be talking about, thanks to four of the industry’s top celebrity wedding planners: Preston Bailey (he’s on our A-list!), Sasha Souza (so is she!), Bryan Rafanelli and Nikki Khan. Here are a few of their secrets for what’s going to be popular next year:

Wedding Dresses that Aren’t White. Gowns in shades of pink, gray and even black were all over the runways at New York City’s Bridal Market this past fall. If you’re not ready to go that non-traditional, Preston Bailey suggests having your seamstress sew a fave colorful fabric beneath your gown, so guests can catch glimpses of it as you walk down the aisle.

Food Trucks. Sasha Souza says there is a food revolution happening at weddings these days, and renting an ice cream truck (or perhaps a local food truck selling cuisine popular in your destination) is a great addition to a reception.

Non-Conventional Floral Centerpieces. According to Bryan Rafanelli, smaller centerpieces are popular, especially bunching arrangements together in different sized containers (pictured). One of his favorite combinations is the mixture of exotic and classic: “tight bunches of pink carnations in square containers, coupled with orchids in another holder can look great.”

Being Budget-Friendly. According to Nikki Khan, “spectacular weddings are possible even on tighter budgets, and your wedding planner should be able to offer alternatives for too pricey items and services.”

If you’re in California next month, Preston, Sasha, Bryan and Nikki will be sharing more tips and trends The Wedding Faire & Symposium, held at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Northern California on January 7^-8, 2012.