There’s a lot to love about weddings this fall. See what’s new!
Weddings are wildly diverse variations of essentially the same exact thing: Two people in love, pledging their commitment to each other for life. No two weddings are alike, because no two couples are alike, and that’s what makes every single wedding uniquely special.
However, there are tons of trends out there that are adding fashionable flair to many fall weddings. We’ve highlighted the latest and greatest here to help couples in the Lowcountry and beyond gather ideas for their own big day.
Whether you’ve been daydreaming about your wedding for decades or you’re just starting to dive into the details, let these top trends lend some inspiration to your planning phase. Happy wedding!
COLORS
Color palettes are warming up for fall, with jewel tones like emerald, burgundy and plum grabbing some attention away from the muted and blush hues we’ve been seeing. Gold, brass, copper and other metallics are still trending as accent colors.
WEDDING WEAR
The strapless gown seems to have become an ever-popular style, but spaghetti straps and open backs are making a comeback. Current styles are including more frills, layers and ruffles, all helping to create dimension and add to the interest of the dress.
CAKES
In general, cakes are shrinking, and simpler is still on trend. “Naked” cakes, along with the use of local fresh flavors, are very popular, as are “drip” cakes in colorful shades that give a touch of casual whimsy to the traditionally formal cake table. Couples also continue to opt for other desserts, with pies being a favorite. Go for traditional fall flavors like apple or pumpkin, or freshen up the palate with lemon or Key lime.
FLOWERS
Dahlias are the hottest flower out there, with hydrangeas close behind. Table centerpieces are seeing more green and brown elements like twigs, pinecones, thistles and ivy, with berries or small blooms used for pops of color. Brides are realizing there are lots of natural ways to add interest to bouquets and other arrangements, too. And simple succulents can be stunning as centerpiece accents.
FOOD
Specialized food stations are still trending, so look for gourmet coffee bars, craft beer or spirits tasting stations, even taco bars and barbecue sauce sampling tables. The trick is to not go overboard with too many options that don’t complement one another. Pick a few that appeal to your personalities, and hire an expert to wow the crowd and answer questions as guests are served.
SOUTHERN STYLE
Southern weddings aren’t so much trendy as they are timeless, but today’s brides and grooms are finding unique ways to give their nuptials that “Gone With the Wind”-type feeling. Monogrammed favors, Southern cocktails (think whiskey sours and mint juleps) and regional treats like pralines, mini pies and tarts are all great ideas. And if you’re getting hitched here on Hilton Head, you’re in luck: We’ve got “Southern charm” exceptionally well covered.
MUSIC
Gone are there days when an organist or pianist would hold court at the wedding and a DJ would spin the tunes during the reception. Wedding bands used to be for the fanciest big-budget affairs, but more and more couples are opting to incorporate live music into their nuptials. Jazz trios, acoustic guitarists and string quartets during the ceremony are popular right now. When picking the musicians who will provide the soundtrack for your day, think about what kind of mood you’d like to set for every stage of your wedding day, from the walk up the aisle to the sendoff at the end of the night.
BRUNCH
Brunch isn’t just for the day after anymore. More couples are opting for brunch weddings, which allow everyone to enjoy pleasant temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere while leaving hours left in the day for guests to enjoy fun activities together. Plus, a wedding reception that offers mimosas, a waffle bar and gourmet coffee selections sounds like a pretty great way to begin married life.
SMALLER PARTIES
More brides and grooms are paring down their guest lists to keep their nuptials intimate and allow more money to be spent on setting the mood they want and lavishing their special loved ones with the best food, drinks and little extras they can find. Bigger isn’t always better — as long as you don’t make great-aunt Edna mad when she doesn’t make the cut.
ROMANCE
Weddings are by nature romantic, but brides are upping the ante with soft lighting and even softer touches. Candlelight centerpieces and crystal chandeliers set just the right mood, while elegant sofas and chairs upholstered with velvet or leather are sophisticated and romantic. Touches of romance from yesteryear add personal charm as well. Elegantly framed wedding photos from your families’ older generations can serve as wonderful decorations that remind everyone how timeless and trendy you are.
