Wedding Experts Share Their Must-Have Tips & Trends

Since it's likely you'll have many questions throughout the planning process, we've gathered some expert advice and a few of the latest trends from top wedding planners, floral designers, and décor and registry experts to share their insider tips. Read on for ideas to spark your wedding imagination – you'll see tips on everything from unique entertainment and themes for all of your pre-wedding parties, to color palettes and bridal attire to consider, to impactful ways to personalize your fête.  Happy planning!

"Think outside the box for your wedding-weekend events and create one-of-a-kind experiences for you and your loved ones. Plan for a laid-back barbecue, a colorful welcome fiesta, or a sexy jazz night in lieu of a sit-down rehearsal dinner, or consider a themed pool party rather than a standard day-after brunch." - Allyson Joseph of Bob Gail Events

"For the couple who has everything, consider gifting an eye-catching item. Christofle’s gold 'MOOD' 24-piece set is an avant-garde decorative piece that houses flatware for six. Its ovoid shape and reflective exterior make it ornamental as well as functional." - Thomas J. Blumenthal of Gearys

"Customization continues to evolve, as more and more couples want their weddings to be unique. When we plan a celebration, we always try to incorporate an element of surprise or awe that is focused on the couple and their likes – anything from the menu design to the print materials to a perfectly personalized note for each guest at their place setting." - Jeannette Tavares of Evoke Design & Creative

"While a classic palette with whites, nudes, and a hint of blush will never go out of style, there is something to be said for rich, vivid tones that create an unexpected and beautiful aesthetic." - Michelle Durpetti of Michelle Durpetti Events

"New statement pantsuits, tuxedos, and jumpsuits speak to the modern bride’s avant-garde style and self-assured confidence, while providing effortless comfort. Look for chic twists on typical embellishments, too!" - Belle Manjong of The Boutique by B.Belle Events

"We love incorporating pops of vibrant colors in classic bouquets for an eye-catching and fun, yet elegant design. Try adding less common tones, such as red and fuchsia, to your blush- hued bouquet for a fresh and bold bridal look." - Melissa McGowan of Flowers by Cina

"When deciding on a venue, think of a space that will transition easily from ceremony to reception. Your floral designers will be able to quickly repurpose visually stunning flower structures from earlier in the day into elevated arrangements for evening festivities." - Heather Thomas of HeatherLily

"Make every detail count on your tabletop. I love personalizing the napkins – not only do they add a special element to the look of the table, they also serves as keepsakes for the bride and groom to use in their new home after the wedding!" - Heather Lowenthal of Posh Parties

"Impersonal favors are a thing of the past, so gift intentionally or not at all. Find unique ways to give back to your guests, such as sending them on their way with a mini cake featuring their name written on top." - Callista Osborn of Callista & Company

"Think of ways to make an impactful impression! One couple wanted to make a statement at the entrance of their reception, so we created two golden, mirrored walls and affixed escort cards to the structure for a dazzling décor element." - Sojourner Auguste of Erganic Design

"When it comes to springtime weddings, freshening up your celebration with the smallest subtleties can be as easy as selecting the color of your chairs. Instead of settling for a standard neutral palette, add a fresh pop of color with light pink, mint green, powder blue, or even orange!" - Jerry Smolar of Chameleon Chair Collection