Wedding and Bridal Trends 2024

HERE COMES THE BRIDE (AND GROOM)

It’s about that time! Soon, brides and grooms will celebrate their love by exchanging vows in momentous ceremonies, followed by the merriment of an unforgettable reception. The wedding season is just around the corner, and for many couples, it is time to make many pivotal decisions about wedding details. Due to the many components and alternatives involved in wedding planning, several local vendors have offered valuable insights into the changes, trends, and enduring traditions shaping the 2024 Wedding Season.

IT STARTS WITH A RING

When it comes to engagement rings, couples are drawn to unique shapes and cuts like oval, pear, and emerald to add a distinctive touch to the ring that is forever. Colored gemstones are gaining popularity as alternatives to traditional diamonds, offering the bride a vibrant and personalized look.

The Hidden Halo is also a stylish option that many couples are choosing. These unique ring features include a halo of accessory diamonds underneath the center stone and are only visible by peering at the ring from the side. These ring choices are lovely alternatives to the traditional solitaire diamond ring. Still. the classic solitaire is a timeless design many couples choose to represent their enduring love and commitment. Visit local jewelers Auction Hart, Boudreaux’s,

and Symmetry Jewelers to get an up-close view of these stunning engagement rings.

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED

Noting a few popular insights in wedding invitations, Melissa Mortillaro of Gem Printing Co. shares that couples are eager to infuse a modern flair into their traditional invitations by incorporating several newer features. One feature that has become popular is custom-lined envelopes that offer a contemporary touch. The custom-lined envelope approach can bring a fresh perspective to the classic style by using specific patterns, colors, or textures, updating them with sophistication. Couples are also incorporating hints of gold in various ways. This elegant addition makes an impact without overwhelming the design. The use of subtle gold gilded edges, gold lettering, gold foil printing, or even gold-lined envelopes is popular. Monograms, ciphers, fun facts about the couple, or watercolor depictions of beloved pets add a unique and delightful element to pre-wedding celebrations and the reception. Melissa from Gem Printing is well-versed in the latest trends in wedding invitations and other printed materials that bring a personalized touch and a touch of elegance.

SAY, “I DO” TO THE VENUE

When choosing a venue for the big day, there is no shortage of fantastic places in the Greater New Orleans area.

The Greenwood, located in Covington, is the newest Southern Hotel property. A recent refurbishment gives the space a fresh life and enhances the surrounding gardens’ beauty, making The Greenwood a premier location for a wedding celebration. Adding to the experience are the well-tended gardens providing a lush backdrop with a stunning 300-year-old Live Oak tree. For ceremonies and celebrations, the property boasts two ballrooms. The primary room hosts up to 300 guests, while a second room accommodates 150; the two rooms seamlessly join to welcome 500 attendees for larger gatherings. Chef Alex Harrell of the Southern Hotel’s restaurant, The Gloriette, serves as the designer for all of The Greenwood’s in-house catering, crafting their exquisite banquet menu.

Many longstanding wedding locales are steeped in history in their timeless charm and offerings. The Balcony Ballroom offers a beautiful space and unparalleled amenities, with all-inclusive premium wedding packages

for every couple. Southern Oaks is another longstanding wedding venue with stunning grounds and space and many all-inclusive amenities from which to choose. Many couples are attracted to the all-inclusive concept, as it makes the wedding planning process seamless and takes away a great deal of stress.

DOES THIS DRESS MAKE ME LOOK LIKE A BRIDE?

Let’s face it: one delight in preparing for a wedding is the joy of embarking on the wedding dress-shopping journey. The prospect of trying on an array of flowing, princess-inspired dresses is nothing short of a dream come true, but what can brides expect to discover in bridal boutiques for the 2024 season?

Floral appliques are distinctive elements in bridal gowns for the upcoming season. Whether they are charming rosettes adorning the bustlines or ones with a bit of color in the case of light green petals for a textural white flower embellishing a column dress, the applique designs affirm that this wedding season will be flourishing with the beauty of blooming flowers.

Bows have come back, making 2024 the year of the bow. Bliss Bridal owner Katie Yellin emphasizes, “We’ve taken such a turn to feminine style, and there’s nothing more girly than a bow. Whether it’s in the detail of the gown or veil or the decor on tables, bows are going to be seen everywhere.”

For the 2024 bridal season, look for intricately incorporated bejeweled bows on bodices, creating sculpted bow-like bustlines. You can anticipate many brides embracing the bow’s delightful charm in the upcoming year.

ELEGANCE NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

GLO Events Decor owner and designer Chloe Potter prefers to avoid fleeting wedding trends and explains, “We believe that a combination of classic elegance and personalized details will endure the test of time for couples looking back on their memorable day.” However, she excitedly embraces changes, including mixing timeless traditions with contemporary flair. An example of this mix is with European-inspired décor. This decor manifests the richness of the old world through elements like vinyl dance floors, dark wood tables, antique or vintage accents, and romantic lighting, such as opulent candelabras.

Another transition that Chloe is excited to see in 2024 is with unexpected color palettes and textures. She says, “The official wedding color of the year is called Marseille Bleu, named after the French Port City’s night sky; imagine a take on a more vibrant version of navy, a color that can be bold or neutral.” Couples can also expect soft, muted palettes with pops of rich colors and a harmonious blend of warm and cool tones to take front and center. The emphasis on interesting textures extends to fabrics and florals, with arrangements featuring fruit for added depth and a natural, layered design. These decor elements add an heir of sophistication that is truly memorable.

Maitee Gomez, owner and creative mind behind Royal Events Candle and Decor, shares some emerging trends and notable shifts in wedding decor she anticipates for the 2024 wedding season as well. Color choice has transitioned. Maitee notes, “In New Orleans, there is a request for chic and

classic elements and colors. We are seeing lots of black and white vibes, peach and pink tones, but also fun and full of texture weddings.” Interestingly, themed weddings and 70s-inspired weddings are trending and staying for at least a while. The demand for candles has significantly increased, reflecting a desire to establish a romantic and sensual ambiance through lighting. Cost-effective choices, such as choosing faux florals over real flowers, have gained popularity among couples. Creating a grand entrance for guests and setting the overall tone of the wedding has become a priority. In consultations, there’s a noticeable emphasis on Ceremony Altars and Aisle decor, recognizing the significance of these areas as the primary photo opportunity during this special moment for couples.