A wedding is, perhaps, the most traditional of celebrations but, with ever more choice available and couples frequently opting to pick up part, or even all, the bill, they are most certainly evolving. For now, it’s probably fair to say that flowers, stunning attire, good food and family get-togethers are non-negotiables, but how you interpret them can make your nuptials a very individual day to remember. We’ve rounded up some of 2019’s best wedding trends for you to consider.
DARK MOODY ACCENTS
Last year we reported that touches of black had made their way, very elegantly, into the bridal realm. This year that slightly sombre mood is more pronounced with venue décor, floral arrangements and table settings embracing edgy, dark hues. No, this doesn’t mean you have to go Gothic (unless, of course, you want to) but layering white or pale place settings and napkins over a dark base tablecloth dressed with dark foliage (real or convincing fake), shimmering candles and lots of sparkling glass – or reversing the colours – will create a dramatic effect.
BRING ON THE BALLOONS
Everyone loves balloons, right? Proving they’re not just for kids, the latest trend is for balloon walls rather than flowers. Arrange them around the doors, snaking around pillars or even hanging from the lights – and wait for the fun as your evening guests decide to try out helium karaoke!
STATEMENT CAKES
After a few years of stands laden with designer cupcakes and pretty dessert tables bearing a plethora of different treats, it seems the big, one-piece wedding cake is making a comeback, if it ever really went away! The Meghan Markle effect is still in evidence with couples opting for delicate, natural flavourings and all-out beautiful decoration. Colour is another big element with gold, bronze and pale pastels much in abundance. But, if you really can’t bear to ditch the cupcakes, why not go for both with a single layer of wedding cake and the rest simply for decoration and the cupcakes arranged on the side tables?
SWITCHING THE SET-UP
If you’re not going for a church wedding and, in some cases, even if you are, there’s absolutely nothing that says you have to walk down the aisle and say your vows with your back to a room full of your nearest and dearest. Lots of couples are taking inspiration from conference-style set-ups such as circular or square seating arrangements which allow them to play to the audience, as it were.
OFF THE WALL
You don’t have to dress like a ComiCon character to embrace this trend. Couples are inviting Stormtroopers, Hobbits and the like to turn up on the day and mingle with guests – think of the photo opportunities. There’s also a move towards fortune tellers, balloon twisters and magicians to add to the experience.
DJ PLUS…
Gone are the days of choosing between a DJ and a band. Follow the clubbing trend (think Café del Mar) of having both. Find a DJ who’s happy to perform alongside live musicians – anything from electric violins to saxophones – and you’ll be bringing a little bit of clubland and individuality into your big day.
LIGHTBULB MOMENTS
Stray away from the traditional string bulbs and fairy lights to include statement lighting in your décor. It could be anything from Chinese-style lanterns to storm lamps lit with candles. Whatever you choose, lights always make a big impression, so going for something distinctive will help to lead the rest of your scheme.
SMELL THE MEMORY
According to theknot.com, having a special scent crafted specifically for your big day is the way to go. Smell is one of our most important senses and having your personalised scent sprayed around the venue, spritzed on invitations and even gifted in candle form as a wedding favour, means your guests will always associate that fragrance with you and your wedding day.
WEDDING ART
This is an idea from the States, courtesy of marthastewartweddings.com, and it’s one we absolutely love. Hire a local artist, of which Bahrain has plenty, to render some part of your big day – it could be the venue, an element of the décor or something else of your choosing – then use the illustration in multiple ways such as on save the date cards, invitations or seating cards.
INTERESTING EATS
Think mounds of profiteroles – croquembouche on a grand scale – pyramids of macaroons, or anything else that can be crafted into gorgeous architectural-style formations. Add on creative live cooking stations such as crepes or smores or treat your guests to a delicious cheese fondue.
