Wedding Trends Look Book 2023

inspiration in full bloom

Think, travel, celebrate, charm, decorate, dress, live – colorfully.

-KATE SPADE

SPONSORS:

Photos by Lauren B Photography and Anna Grinets Photography

By Matthew Trettel

Wedding Trends Look Book

by Matthew Trettel

with Erika Blank

Edited by: Ellaina Cullen

Cover Photo by Vick Photography

Copyright © 2023

The Wedding Guys, Inc.

Tenth Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

There are few experiences in life that will be as anticipated and meticulously planned as your wedding day. It is one of life’s celebrations that warms the heart and brings tears of joy. With it, two lives come together. But for most, the process of planning and preparation is much more than they had ever realized.

A decade ago, we started a journey to create the definitive source of wedding trends. Over the past ten years we’ve brought our lens to the pop-culture elements that we feel are worthy of your celebration. We wish to inspire you to dream outside the box — to create a day that embodies you and your fiancé. A day that welcomes those that are most treasured to you as you come together to celebrate your marriage in their company.

On every page of the Wedding Trends Look Book, our goal continues to be to inspire. We want you to discover new ideas and fresh ways to do things. Our wish is to deliver clarity in creating a styled wedding event. Through each of the past nine editions, we have given full access to our creative minds providing you with the tricks of the trade in designing your own Signature Wedding.

Our 10th Anniversary edition is no exception. So, take a deep breath, relax and let your wedding planning adventure begin!

For information address The Wedding Guys, Inc. 2131 Broadway Street NE Minneapolis, Minnesota 55413 888-715-7620

www.theweddingguys.com

ISBN: 978-1-7335166-4-8

By Matthew Trettel

INSTALLATIONS

Each year we scour the cultural climate to determine which latest craze will make its way into weddings. For 2023, installations undoubtedly continue to be one of the hottest trends. This is why we are devoting our first pages of the Wedding Trends Look Book to the magic of creative décor and floral installations for your wedding. These statement pieces can transform space. Materials used and the application of these items can be varied and spectacular. Whether a dramatic canopy over the ceremony or a notable feature to call out the dance floor, installations create a wow factor for weddings.

We first saw installations expand out of the organic balloon designs that have been popular for the last several years. From abstract balloon arches to cascades of multi-sized balloons, these artistic creations were used primarily as entrance effects, photo ops, and ceremony backdrops. Then the ideas expanded into sizeable concepts from fully covered balloon ceilings to statements that incorporated both balloons and floral. But the idea didn’t just stop with balloons. Designers looked to other elements like paper flowers, laser-cut papers, flower petals, gauzy fabrics, and a variety of other materials.

When combined with lighting, an installation brings a great depth that defines volumes of space or accents individual event elements. Clusters of disco balls, at left, not only create a festive atmosphere, they generate prisms of light dancing across your entire reception space.

Other distinctive materials include anything organic. Consider the textures created when foliage cascades from a ceiling installation with lush green fern, loose eucalyptus, and dainty vines dripping effortlessly from a black metal grate. The greenery installation, at left, creates the perfect canopy over a ceremony and anchors the entire space with a dramatic focal point. Edison bulbs add a sense of drama when hung at different heights amongst the foliage. Ideas expand when you add Italian lights or clusters of chandeliers for a stunning statement. Consider using lighting in combination with other elements when designing your installation. Even the selection of light bulbs can have a significant impact on the overall effect. To create the warm glow of amber, you can use Edison bulbs. These vintage-inspired filaments come in a series of shapes and wattages.

FLORAL INSTALLATIONS PROVIDE GUESTS WITH A VISUAL EXPERIENCE

DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE

Looking to do something a bit more conventional? Balloon backdrops are still popular and provide a perfect opportunity to incorporate your color palette. The balloon backdrop, at right, creates a great focal point for this cocktail hour where guests can “chill out” while enjoying each other’s company. White and gold balloons combine effortlessly with Ruscus when woven around a gold metal armature.

For over 100 years Golden Valley Country Club has hosted the area’s most beautiful love stories. Come celebrate yours surrounded by the gorgeous views, caring and attentive staff and world-class service that are our hallmark.

Let us share our expertise in designing a celebration that is uniquely you.

Memories Minutes From Minneapolis

This is just one of many ways to use this trend in your wedding. You could also construct an asymmetrical arch as the entrance to the ceremony or hang maximalist balloons in bright colors over the head table as a playful feature. Whether you fancy disco balls or dazzling chandeliers, an installation will make a crowning touch to your wedding celebration.

Photos by Rachel Elle and Anna Grinets

POP CULTURE

Designing your wedding can be a lot like planning the interior of your home or choosing the perfect outfit. The colors, textures, and patterns are a reflection of who you are and how you want to present yourself. As we search for trends across the globe in streetwear, interior design, and pop culture, we envision how these ideas can influence weddings. The best part is that everything you see in the world around you is fair game. Think about the outfits you see on the Paris Fashion Week runway, the illumination of an art studio, glassware at your favorite restaurant, and even furniture settings in hotels. You can weave any of these elements into your wedding day with a spark of creativity and imagination.

In the Wedding Trends Look Book, you will find our predictions for upcoming trends and ways to absorb these ideas and make them your own. Guests will be delighted to see that you have taken inspiration from across the globe and infused them into your décor, fashion, and overall ambiance.

2022 was the first year fashion runways were back in full action and designers delivered. One particular look that we consistently saw throughout the catwalks was leather and vegan leather in all forms. Oversized coats, thigh-high boots, jumpsuits — you name it. Celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner love this look with alluring head-to-toe looks or rocking a biker flair with leather chunky boots. Black is the most popular hue for this material, but we love to see tones like lavender, camel, or off-white. Make a dramatic wedding exit with a fringe leather coat, or use leather napkin rings for your tabletop. The possibilities with this material are exciting and endless.

Leather is no stranger to interior design, either. Today, this versatile material is introduced in unique ways as kitchen cabinet pulls, wall coverings, throw pillows, and more. Leather is timeless and adds an affluent aesthetic to any room in your home.

More than ever, emerging trends are surfacing from social platforms like TikTok. Over the past year, we’ve seen a heavy presence of what is being termed “Dark Academia’’ in both fashion and the home. Picture a wood-burning fireplace, floor-to-ceiling leather-bound books, antique finishings, and sophisticated furnishings. The days of “modern farmhouse” are fading away and we are seeing moody tones and drama take center stage, at left.

Photo by Sarah Newhouse

LEATHER ELEMENTS WILL PLAY A UNIQUE ROLE IN HOME AND FASHION AESTHETICS

This year, homes are becoming artful displays of individuality. Cookie-cutter color palettes appealing to the masses are out, while off-beat touches are in. Darker tones like midnight black or a deep forest green create a rich sophistication and pair beautifully with textured vases, at left. You can also thoughtfully place pieces of art that you may have collected on your travels. What matters is finding ways to showcase your interests and curating a space that feels authentic to you.

Both leather and unconventional colors evoke a feeling of luxury. Implementing these into your wedding is an unexpected twist your guests will love. Layer these pieces into your fashions, like a black wedding dress, or into your centerpieces and you will be on trend for 2023.

DARK TONES AND RICH TEXTURES LAYER BEAUTIFULLY WHEN JUXTAPOSED

COLOR STORY

Each year Pantone® sets the world to color driving trends in all visual categories. Within the stylish palettes they define, they choose one stand-out color dubbed the “Color of the Year”. 2023 has finally arrived, and we’re excited to discover the go-to color of this year.

Color plays such a crucial role in wedding design, and we challenge you to consider it in a whole new way. Instead of letting one specific tone guide your design, think of what you want your wedding experience to feel like and then focus on the hues that elicit that feeling. Get inspired by looking at home interior trends and how they can be translated into the perfect wedding day look. Need more inspiration? Look in your closet and see what tones you naturally gravitate towards. We love to turn to the fashion runways to see what fresh colors best align with each wedding design, and you will see all the 2023 fashion colors throughout this edition.

We can promise you’ll hear the question, “what are your wedding colors?” countless times as you plan your wedding. This question might come right away from your attendants since “wedding colors” are usually directly associated with what color the bridesmaid dresses will be. However, color today is incorporated into every single part of the wedding aesthetic. Through invitations, statement pieces, tabletops, styled floral, cakes, and even the plates you’ll choose to serve your meal, there are many things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing colors for your day.

A decade or two ago, couples would stick to one or two wedding tones and leave it at that. Rather than choosing a single color, today’s couples are opting for comprehensive wedding palettes and color combinations that can truly evoke a certain mood or ambiance for your event. For instance, choosing bold Sempervivum ‘Rubin’ succulents for your bouquet is a delight for your wedding guests and is certain to make them stop and stare. Colors change with each season shifting our focus to relevant, trend-forward schemes each year. Pantone is one of the best color resources for your wedding design. Their forecasters select palettes for fashion and home interiors every season. Each December, they also announce the Color of the Year which is the hue they feel most impacts the industry.

For the Pantone Color of the Year, they’ve selected “Viva Magenta” to represent 2023. They describe this year’s hue as “powerful and empowering. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement.” Viva Magenta vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength.

Viva Magenta is a symbol of the global zeitgeist of the moment which illustrates a brave and fearless future and welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit, and inclusive of all.

MAGENTA BRINGS A SENSE OF FEARLESS CONFIDENCE

The Chameleon Chair® lets you unleash your creativity with an endless array of color and fabric options custom designed to perfectly fit the Chameleon Chair® Rent the one chair with a million options, exclusively at Haven & Gather.

Alim Yakubov

FASHION & STYLE

Twice a year, designers, bridal salons, and influencers from around the world gather for the most anticipated wedding event of the season to preview the latest collections from the best ateliers in the world. Each April and October, New York Fashion Week becomes the epicenter of all things bridal fashion and sets the tone in trends for the coming year. Engaged couples and wedding enthusiasts eagerly await as couture designers like Galia Lahav, Monique Lhullier, and Ines Di Santo show off their newest creations. These fashion houses bring their A-game and flaunt the most exquisite dresses through fabulous high-energy runway shows and private showings. Designers have thrown all the rules out of the window by blurring the line between bridal and street style more than ever. Brides want to feel like an elevated version of themselves as they transform into a vision on their wedding day.

Last year, we saw an influx of over-the-top fashion with statement sleeves, corset bodices, and cutouts. These trends are amplified this year with even more glitz and glam. Pinterest and TikTok have allowed brides globally to have couture bridal fashion at their fingertips, and nothing is off-limits. Designers are shifting away from their signature looks and showcasing an array of radiant options for every bride. Discerning couples are more prepared than ever to surprise guests with these personalized and astonishing fashion choices. For 2023, expect a range of trends from sophisticated mock necklines to feminine floral embellishments and a rainbow of fabric colors that go far beyond the conventional white gown.

Courtesy of Galia Lahav

Bridal fashion has frequently taken cues from the royals, and this first trend is no different. Mock necks are making a comeback as several designers work their individual magic on this regal neckline. The neckline is like a turtleneck but is often looser fitting and sits slightly lower than a high-neck dress. For a modest look, this silhouette can be paired with layers of tulle and applique or take on a contemporary feel with illusion lace for a collar-like effect.

This style is fashion-forward and beautiful for a formal soirée with an A-line skirt and hand-sewn beading, at right. A mock neck is so charming in an Audrey Hepburninspired midi gown perfect for a courthouse wedding. If you are looking to dazzle, consider a sequin floor-length fitted gown with detachable gloves sure to catch the eye for a bold look. Mock necks are here to stay and are timelessly romantic.

CLASSIC SILHOUETTES ARE ENHANCED WITH A NEW TWIST ON MOCK NECKLINES

JULIE VINO Courtesy of Julie Vino

Photo by Walter Chin

Courtesy of Anne Barge

Courtesy of Rita Vinieris

LOOK YOUR BEST ON YOUR

WEDDING DAY

Another hot design this year is straight out of our garden wedding dreams. Floral-adorned frocks have been rising in popularity and this whimsical look is having a movement. The internet exploded after Sophia Bush’s wedding photos were released in the summer of 2022. We couldn’t take our eyes off of her custom botanical Monique Lhuillier gown and neither could the bridal community. Suddenly, everyone was craving more blooms in fashion.

Flowers are enchanting in many forms and extend beyond classic embellishments. Think alluring prints and dimensional multicolored layers of floral. This trend makes its way down the aisle with airy chiffon textures and printed spring wildflowers. An A-line becomes a vision with off-the-shoulder sleeves, 3D blooms, and a high slit, at right.

LIVELY FLORALS IN ALL FORMS ARE MAKING A STATEMENT

HALFPENNY LONDON

Photo by Zach & Grace

Photo by Jose Villa Courtesy of Justin Alexander

Courtesy of Ines di Santo

Courtesy of Madeline Gardner

Photo by Shane LaVancher

As the latest collections were introduced by bridal designers from around the world, we couldn’t help but notice pops of blush, pastel blue, onyx, and even shimmering gold. This is perfect for the creative bride that wants to embrace the unconventional and go beyond a classic white gown. Colored bridal gowns have always been incorporated into collections, but go above and beyond this year seamlessly blending evening wear with bridal.

One of the most exciting things about this trend is that these colors come in all forms. For a spring celebration, consider a billowing blue ball gown with oversized white flowers. For a full dramatic effect, a sultry black bodysuit and overskirt will have everyone’s jaws on the floor. Go for a flirty pretty-in-pink A-line with layers of mauve and blush for a sense of playfulness at an outdoor ceremony.

COLORS FROM ACROSS THE RAINBOW ARE MAKING THEIR WAY INTO BRIDAL

JOSEPH ABBOUD

TODD SNYDER

STEPHEN F Fashion

SPACE

Who doesn’t love a reason to celebrate? Yet, how one celebrates means something different to everyone. Since weddings have become so diverse, the traditional sit-down dinner and dance are being replaced by a more interactive and social setting. This has transformed the elements of what was considered “the standard” reception, and the introduction of a more designed environment has had a major impact. We’re seeing these intricate details transfer into your soirée, no matter the size.

For your wedding vibe, think about the gathering place you want to create for your guests. The best memories are made when friends and family gather. It seems as if every friend group or individual family has a favorite gathering place. In some families, it might be the kitchen. In your friendships, it might be a cozy corner coffee shop. No matter where or what your gathering place is, it is an important piece of creating those special moments and memories that last a lifetime.

Think of your venue as the ultimate gathering place where those closest to you will come together to celebrate you and your love. Your guest list is unique to you and your fiancé, so your space for the celebration should be one of a kind too! Think about how you can best utilize your reception space to create an interactive area for each of your guests to form their own memories. “Gather” won’t mean the same thing for all your guests. For your grandparents, it might mean a relaxed lounge in a quiet area of the room. While your younger guests might gravitate towards a collection of community-style tables with soft seating, at left.

Creating several lounge options in various locations allows your guests to choose an environment they prefer. A lounge generally starts with developing an environment. Set off an area with an installation like the chandeliers, at right, then add a visual pop with a modern mid-century sofa and brightlycolored chairs.

Dividing the space into multiple areas will make the overall reception feel more intimate, leaving a spot for dancing, lounging, eating, and mingling. Providing varying moments allows guests the chance to enjoy each other’s company. People naturally like to form conversation groups and combining furnishings in clusters and pods of seating allows them to do this effortlessly. Adding accent pillows allows you to customize the look of rental pieces.

CREATING A SENSE OF PLACE AT YOUR WEDDING WILL SET THE TONE FOR YOUR RECEPTION

Dmitriy Frolov

To display statement pieces of floral, we often add elements like tall sofa tables, at right, that also provide guests with a convenient place to place their cocktails. Lounges can easily be added around the dance floor for people to enjoy the entertainment. They can also be designed in quieter surroundings where guests can have intimate conversations. Some designs can be very elaborate while some are quite simple. It all depends on the room you are working in, your design aesthetic, and your vision of how guests will enjoy their evening.

Instead of a cocktail hour with high-top tables and passed hors d’oeuvres, we suggest creating a varied landscape with a built-out bar. Include soft seating with ritzy furniture to define an environment that feels more relaxed and inviting for your guests.

DESIGN CHOICES TRANSFORM YOUR WEDDING INTO

Simply dimming the overhead lighting and using uplighting can signal that the hurried activities of the busy wedding day have mellowed, and now it is time to kick back, relax and enjoy a cocktail. The bar is the most popular place at any wedding which makes for an amazing opportunity to weave in custom details.

At right, the bar is placed on the venue’s patio for al fresco sunset libations. The outdoor bar gives guests a chance to enjoy the coveted summer weather. Cascading arrangements with leafy greens, white delphinium, and airy ivory roses reflect the reception centerpieces and bouquets.

WE LOVE TRANSFORMING SPACES BY CREATING STATEMENT BARS

Tsezarina

Sponsored by:

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR PICTURE PERFECT WEDDING

Presented by:

JANUARY 29, 2023 | JANUARY 2024

J.POWERS Located at the Hilton Rochester 10 EAST CENTER STREET | ROCHESTER

Tickets at TheWeddingGuys.com

THE DETAILS

The variety of details that go into styling your dream wedding are limitless. When creating your look, you want to select pieces that produce a cohesive and memorable experience for all of your family and friends. Think about a layered tabletop design, enchanting floral draped above the head table, and even hand-crafted place cards. Integrating these elements is seamless with just a few clever tips and tricks.

Opportunities for centerpieces are vast with floral options ranging from towering creations that defy gravity to minimalist stems thoughtfully placed throughout the tables. Couples are letting their imaginations run wild using blooms in ways we’ve never seen before. For a luxe wedding look, you might consider an overflowing floral runner with garlands of greenery and white roses. Opting for an outdoor spring affair? Choose a color palette that mirrors the shades of the season with tulips and ranunculus displayed in pastel ceramic vases. Either way, a festive focal point that reflects your wedding vision is sure to set your day apart.

Don’t be afraid to channel a design that embraces contrast with a sprawling centerpiece of varying textures. This nature-inspired arrangement, at left, not only features bright flowers but also fresh fruit. The use of orange daisies, blush spider chrysanthemum, and coral roses blend perfectly with the fresh fruit. Infusing alternative components like grapefruit and kiwi along with berries and natural stems add a shock factor that your guests will swoon over.

Setting your reception tables allows you to make an impact while adding in personal details. Carefully selecting items like linens, cutlery, chargers, glassware, and menus are what make your day one of a kind. After the vows, toasts, and photo ops are said and done, these are the pieces that will leave guests in awe of your creativity.

Think of how you can layer décor and tableware in a compelling way to keep your guests interested. At right, a metallic mirrored runner sets the stage for a polished tablescape. Gold-rimmed chargers sit beneath classic china dinner plates topped with blush napkins. Vintage crystal glassware glimmers against the mod gold and white flatware. Embossed menus pop from the black table while flamingo flowers and ranunculus burst from the deconstructed centerpieces.

USE TEXTURED ELEMENTS TO PROVIDE INTEREST AND CONTRAST

Now that you have all of the smaller elements built out, think about how they will all come together in a cohesive way. Knowing your color palette and what aesthetic you’re going for is crucial for this to happen. And while you may think that you have to choose colors of the season, why not branch out and brighten up a winter wedding with vivid and bold hues?

Black bucket chairs with geometric legs anchor the light and airy space, at left. A Scandinavian-inspired wood table adds a natural look underneath the flourishing tabletop. Amber goblets and a deep golden runner provide a richness next to the pastel pillar candles. As mentioned earlier in the book, installations are more inventive than ever and this floral chandelier is a vision with a kaleidoscopic of tones.

ENVISION SPECTACULAR MAXIMALIST INSTALLATIONS TO MAKE A BIG STATEMENT

If you are truly looking to make a statement, think beyond the tabletop. A multi-tier ultramodern cake can be displayed as an art piece rather than just a dessert. Initially, you may not think of a cake as an accessory but it will surely turn heads when given the right platform. You can also take advantage of this opportunity to infuse personal details on top of a decadent confection.

Wedding Planning Made Easy.

Everything you need for your perfect day in one place.

This three-tiered masterpiece, at right, is trendy in its own way. It begins with deep navy blue icing with an ombre effect shifting to a royal blue. 3D gold rectangles crawl their way up the cake leading your eye to the bright red top tier. These daring tones reflect the floral on the centerpieces and the ceremony arch for a stellar vibe.

CAKES CAN BE DISPLAYED AS WORKS OF ART WITH CREATIVE DESIGN

The minute you send out wedding invitations, you’re setting the mood for your day by giving guests a first look at what’s in store. Here, you can give them a sneak peek into your monogram, floral, fonts, and decorations. They will be eager to see that you’ve continued the colors and patterns of your invitations into your various wedding signage like menus, place cards, and more.

Boho themes are still shining in weddings, just with less terracotta and more modern influences. At left, you’ll see stationery with desert influences and striking hues. Calligraphy is the focus of this invitation suite from the foil-pressed black invitation to the die cut feather place cards. The envelope is graphic with a custom mud cloth pattern on the lining.

SELECT AN INVITATION DESIGN THAT SERVES AS A FIRST LOOK INTO THE WEDDING

SIPS & BITES

Ready to embrace your inner foodie with a culinary journey? Thankfully, the traditional wedding menu has been forever changed thanks to popular TV shows like Top Chef and Chopped. This appetite for something different has pushed caterers to evolve their offerings and they are taking cues from the influence of trendy restaurants. The wedding culinary scene now offers an expanded range of options from farm-to-table to vegan and even gluten-free options. Food and beverage are not just a part of the wedding checklist. For us, it is an opportunity to treat your guests, expand their palate, and excite their taste buds. We love to open their minds to items they typically wouldn’t ever think to try and watch them be astonished!

The desire for couples to have a guest experience that is both unique and memorable has led to an increased willingness to experiment. Creative culinary design will allow your chef to play with the presentation while making your wedding an incredible visual experience. As you are planning your wedding menu, observe and take notes while dining out. This can be a perfect source of inspiration!

Wholesome comfort foods will dominate menus in 2023, but move over mac and cheese and enter fusion ideas incorporating more vegetables and vegetable-alternative pasta like the Peruvian Potato gnocchi with cauliflower and lobster garnished with signature purple potato chips, at left.

Antonia Truzzi

With the lack of travel caused by the pandemic, people are looking for ways to invoke a sense of faraway destinations. We’re embracing new flavors, textures, and colors, adding to the possibilities as flavor profiles change. Enter international fruits — alternative citrus, melons, and stone fruits wildly colorful with extraordinary shapes and flavors. Native to Mexico and Central America, mamey, for example, is a tropical fruit with a creamy texture and orange color similar to sweet potato or pumpkin. It has a smooth, rich sweetness that makes for decadent desserts like this trio, at right, featuring créme brûlée dessert, mousse, and mamey ice cream.

Things move fast in the culinary world, and this year global infusion will urge couples to showcase the traditional dishes of each family’s heritage that tell the couple’s story.

GLOBAL FUSION IS HOT IN WEDDING FOOD THIS YEAR

Whether Italian, Indian, Asian, or African, a great chef can design a plate with the right complementing flavor combinations. This trend has catering teams crafting a cultural mosaic from all over the globe.

The diversity and complexity of African cuisines are becoming more and more accessible to the US consumer. Discover African ingredients like fonio that has a rich, nutty flavor and a texture similar to couscous. You may also see garri which also has a nutty flavor and the consistency of cream of wheat. Shito is a spicy, sweet pepper sauce from Ghana delicious with a cheese spread. Harissa is another sauce from North Africa made of simple ingredients including red chiles, garlic, olive oil, citrus, and warm spices. Waakye, a Ghanaian cuisine, at left, is a dish with cooked rice, pepper, shito, and spaghetti wrapped in green leaves.

EXPLORE NEW FLAVORS

INNOVATIVE CUISINE INCREDIBLE VENUES

Your place or ours, some of life’s best memories are made when gathered around the table.

AS MENUS BECOME MORE COMPLEX AND INTRIGUING

The mixology craze has infiltrated the wedding scene and bartenders are now offering a beverage experience unlike anything we have tasted before. Cocktails have never been so diverse. Get ready for 2023 because the pandemic has driven a trend toward alcohol connoisseurs who are looking for high-quality drink experiences.

The signature cocktail may have taken a back seat to each person enjoying their favorite.

One change we are seeing this year is in flavors. While nuanced tastes allowed the spirit to be more forward, big and bold zests are now coming to the forefront. Watch for beers with unusual flavors like chocolate or chili pepper, or ones that combine fruity and savory flavors that appeal to consumers’ desire for a more adventurous experience.

ADVENTUROUS FLAVORS COME TOGETHER CREATING SURPRISING LIBATIONS

Arina

P Habich

Fearless palettes have bartenders looking for new flavor profiles year after year. Readyto-drink beverages like naturally-flavored seltzers are becoming elevated. Unique cocktail mixers have also driven awareness of new flavors as enthusiasts continue to look for eccentric flavor profiles.

Combining a variety of distinctive elements, like flowers and botanicals, with more traditional flavors helps mixologists maintain a well-balanced beverage. Think of a whiskey sour infused with mango, ginger, or chili pepper. A Moscow Mule becomes tropical with a hint of hibiscus. Introduce an air of adventure by combining an uncommon flavor like tangerine with more common flavors like cinnamon and thyme that creates the delicious Old Fashioned, at left.

sponsored by:

TRAVEL

Travel has returned substantially and is surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Couples are checking items off their bucket lists left and right while diving into adventures near and far. The previous two years have shown us how precious exploring the world can be, and people aren’t taking it for granted any longer.

After celebrations have been on hold, the 2022 wedding boom took off with an influx of destination weddings. Some travelers chose a location abroad due to a lack of venue availability in their hometowns. For others, it was a desire to bring family and friends together for an extended vacation. Guest experience is top of mind as couples design multi-day events for all attendees. You might begin the festivities with a welcome dinner paired with a locally-inspired tequila tasting. The next morning, plan a rejuvenating activity such as a sunrise yoga session before the wedding begins. The morning after, host a memorable brunch in a lively atmosphere before guests venture off on their own excursions.

This year, destination weddings are pushing the envelope with couples seeking captivating locations across the globe. And these celebrations aren’t only for the beach anymore. Glamorous vows in New York City make for a high-velocity weekend with endless photo ops. Imagine yourself in the rainforest for an eco-friendly ceremony in the lush setting of Peru. Support the local community by hosting a gastronomic meal with farm-to-table fare.

With the unprecedented amount of weddings this past year comes an influx of honeymoons. Last year we saw couples sprinkling in small domestic vacations in their travels throughout the year. In the coming months, travelers are enjoying elongated and more grand getaways with distinct immersive opportunities.

The option to work from anywhere and a pent-up travel budget give couples more options for extended stays that can’t be done over a long weekend. Witness the soaring landscapes of the Serengeti on an epic once-in-a-lifetime safari. Migrate through the romantic cities of Amsterdam, Paris, and Venice on luxury overnight trains. Taste exotic dishes on a foodie tour throughout Asia, and end the trip with an up close and personal visit with elephants at the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

IMMERSIVE HONEYMOONS ARE A TREND FOR THOSE LOOKING TO CONNECT WITH CULTURES

Balate Dorin

Independent boutique hotels, artisanmade pottery pieces, and carbon-neutral locations are popping up on Pinterest boards everywhere. Honeymooners are steering away from singular experiences at secluded resorts and searching for authentic exploration with the locals. Being conscious of the environmental impact of tourism is key for an “eco-moon”.

Sustainability is at the forefront for the next generation of sojourners. Supporting local artists, taking an in-home cooking course, and staying at unique properties that focus on renewable energy are ways to reduce your carbon footprint when traveling. No matter where you go, finding the people and heritage that make your destination unique will leave you feeling fulfilled and connected with the location and your partner.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL WILL TAKE PRECEDENCE IN TRAVEL THIS YEAR

Our AAA Travel Specialists will assist you in planning the destination wedding or honeymoon of your dreams. Whether you prefer a relaxing luxury experience or seek adventure travel steeped with cultural immersion, our experts work hard to find you the best value at unique destinations.

Sponsored by

JANUARY 2024

Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot

Tickets at TheWeddingGuys.com

step into planning paradise! step into planning paradise!

INSPIRATION: AUTUMN ROMANCE

Rich autumnal tones, abundant floral, and enchanting textures set the stage for this romantic soiree. Envision a sea of luxe fabrics, metallics, and glamorous chandeliers draping from the ceiling. A color scheme of fig, gold, navy, and chestnut fused with interesting materials lay the groundwork for this extravagant fête.

From the bride’s cascading orchid and hydrangea bouquet to the sweeping views of the fall foliage during the ceremony, the setting was a fairy tale. Modern gold chairs with ivory seats were placed in rows on either side of the yellow-golden damask aisle runner. Tall trees with white blossoms and flickering tea light bulbs swaying from the branches shaped an arch for the vows.

Family and friends received their first glimpse of this blissful day with a lovely invitation suite, at left. Refined layers of stationery reflected the couple’s personal taste and seasonal hues. Swooping calligraphy is placed delicately across the mahogany RSVP card that succeeds a floral-embossed formal invitation. A navy belly band packages up the suite with a gold wax seal that features the couple’s initials.

Finding the perfect centerpieces for your wedding tables can be an intimidating task. Consider choosing the right shapes, colors, and vessels for your venue and style. They shouldn’t be too imposing or too small for the tables and space.

Toffee roses, blush carnations, and rust cymbidium orchids were paired with white delphinium and fresh greenery in this moderately-sized centerpiece, at right. This arrangement popped from the black acrylic table in a gold square vase. The volume of the piece fits perfectly according to the size and structure of its surroundings.

Floral embossing from the wedding invitation is reintroduced in the day-of wedding signage including the table numbers and place cards. These elements are laid neatly adjacent to the place settings.

CARRY PATTERNS FROM THE INVITATION THROUGHOUT OTHER SIGNAGE

Guests were in awe of the attention to detail across the tablescape as they found their seats for a formal dinner. Ambient lighting provided an intimate and cozy setting where they could settle in for an evening to celebrate the newlyweds. Beneath the lustrous copper velvet napkins is a shimmering table linen with shades of gold and beige infusing leaf-like accents, at left. This subtle but luxurious fabric was an ode to the season and allowed the autumnal buds to take center stage.

Custom menus featuring a recognizable flower pattern is also seen on the welcome sign upon entering the ceremony space, at right. Crimson and caramel blooms found at the reception were introduced on the flower swag on the corner of the handmade copper stand. Coordinating these pieces as you plan your wedding is important to keep at the top of your mind.

Vick Photography

Chefs served a delectable three-course meal with carefully selected options for every palette. First was a salad course consisting of fresh mixed greens tossed with a cabernet vinaigrette and topped with Parmesan and soft herbs. For the main course, guests chose a pan-seared chicken breast with a cider reduction, spinach ricotta ravioli, or Red Lake walleye, each more delicious than the next. Curated wine pairings were enjoyed between plates before indulging in a divine slice of red velvet cake.

YOUR WEDDING DREAMS

FLIGHT

Wedding party members felt honored to be seated alongside the bride and groom at an elongated head table spanning the length of the ballroom. Towering candelabras with taper candles and glamorous chandeliers created a romantic atmosphere that resonated with the couple’s personal taste and dream wedding vision.

See the complete inspiration at TheWeddingGuys.com/AutumnRomance

SEASONAL MENU SELECTIONS MAKE FOR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

Vick Photography

INSPIRATION: GRAND GARDEN

Inspired by lush European gardens and the regencycore aesthetic popping up everywhere, flourishing flowers and pastel hues formed a grand and chic wedding day. Choosing a particular theme for your wedding isn’t necessary, but is sensational when executed properly. Working with a team of talented vendors will ensure your vision is carried out flawlessly. Every element should come together cohesively from the invitations to the furnishings and beyond.

Floor-to-ceiling natural wood beams anchor the sun-drenched ballroom making it a perfect setting for summertime nuptials, at left. Clean rows of contemporary gold chairs with cream seats light up the space allowing the abundant florals to shine. Low arrangements in vintage gold vases line the aisle as bold blooms in glass trumpet vases provide just enough height.

The botanical thread continues into the day’s fashion as well. Imagine the bride gracefully floating down the aisle in a satin A-line ball gown with a sweetheart neckline. A classic gown is modernized with a floral lace pattern and a high slit. Preceding the bride was her groom dressed in a formal tuxedo paired with an ivory jacket and sleek black bow tie.

Family and friends made their way into the airy reception space following the cocktail hour where they enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and an impressive charcuterie spread. Upon finding their seats, they discovered a romantic tablescape waiting for them. At left, a sky blue table linen sits beneath a floral lace overlay transporting you to a different period. The outside is brought in with a freshly-cut Italian Ruscus table runner.

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir flowed into glasses between courses that began with a beet, pistachio, and goat cheese salad, at right. The main course offered selections of Angus filet mignon, Parmesan panko-crusted walleye, or coconut curry. Decadent desserts were displayed buffet-style to enjoy after dinner and heartfelt speeches.

Matt Lien

In this design, a palette of light blue, blush, bright white, and greenery amplified the ethereal layout. Place settings were simple with crisp cotton napkins, silver flatware, and antique blue goblets. Lavish centerpieces were filled with seasonal blooms including anemone, blue delphinium, roses, astilbe, ranunculus, hydrangea, and Italian Ruscus. These small details will stand the test of time and create a visual experience for your loved ones. Floral installations are big in weddings right now and for a good reason. Enchanting arrangements are versatile and will elevate any celebration. It’s impossible to take your eyes off of the greenery chandeliers hung on iron light fixtures, at right, that made a statement during the ceremony as well as the reception.

DRAPING GREENERY ADDS DEPTH TO THE RECEPTION SPACE

Matt Lien

A Perfect Intersection of

Elegance & Luxury

As the festivities continued, guests discovered a seating nook tucked away in the bright fireplace lounge. Plush velvet sofas faced one another with circular iron side tables situated between them. The setting allowed for a laidback ambiance that gave everyone a chance to unwind and connect before they hit the dance floor. No formal wedding is complete without a cake. Two tiers of buttercream piped cake gave a blank canvas for the florist to work their magic. Roses, ranunculus, ferns, and greenery created a mini centerpiece across the top tier with petals placed along the bottom tier. Every aspect of the wedding day featured stunning and intentional elements suited for this garden wedding. See the complete inspiration at TheWeddingGuys.com/GrandGarden Matt

Lien

INCORPORATE YOUR UNIQUE THEME INTO EVERY DETAIL OF THE DAY

Kelly Brown Weddings

INSPIRATION: MODERN BAROQUE

Inspired by the opulent period of the early 1700s, gilded accents and ornate décor come together in a theme titled Modern Baroque. Light and dark contrasting colors set the stage by encompassing a fresh take on this iconic era. The design unfolds in maximalist fashion with table settings and pieces that feel more like an art exhibition than a wedding reception.

Guests are welcomed to their seats with a layered place setting atop a sleek black acrylic dining table. A metallic Victorian charger is grand beneath a silky onyx napkin topped with a hand-painted lavender dinner plate. The antique gold porcelain salad plate complements the collection with a lasercut menu. This stationery offers a classic script font tied with a place card that has a graphic pattern seen throughout the wedding.

Flatware with wooden bases adds warmth to the layout and goes along with the vintage atmosphere. Three tiers of simple yet elegant glassware make for a clean look perfect for a four-course dinner paired with Tuscan wines. Natural greenery enclosed in modern gold vases and scattered votive candles exhibit an uncomplicated and ambient design.

Anna Grinets Photography

The lavish feel continues to the ceremony with several textures seen throughout the landscape. Upon entering the space, your eyes immediately go to the distinct black and white damask aisle runner that pops from the polished floors. Graphic gold and royal purple ceremony programs lay on the lustrous black acrylic chairs, at left.

A vignette of hedge walls is a unique backdrop for the ceremony with antique black mirrors hanging from the greenery. Oversized calla lilies are stately on the platform that features a custom-printed design with the couple’s signature pattern. At right, you’re transported into a royal garden with golden statues sitting atop wooden pillars that add a regal element to the nuptials.

Anna Grinets Photography

This year, weddings are taking a turn and couples are looking to add experiential moments for guests. Incorporating an inviting lounge, at right, is a great way to let them know they can relax and stay awhile. A charcoal-tufted Chesterfield sofa is as welcoming as it is charming, tying in the moody gilded color palette with an array of throw pillows. Complete with velvety soft accent chairs and low lighting, this nook feels more like a cocktail lounge than a wedding reception. For an additional gathering option, low-top tables carefully placed in a tucked away area of the bar feel intimate and cozy. An exquisite linen and décor that matches the head table centerpieces elevate the look. Traditional layout rules are out the window and allow you to create a refreshing experience.

Anna Grinets Photography

CREATE INTEREST WITH WELCOMING AND CHARMING FURNITURE PIECES

It’s said time and time again that it’s all in the details, and that couldn’t be more true for this decadent design. Small additions make a big impact like navy seat covers juxtaposed with gold chairs. Instead of an open-concept entrance, drape the entire room with sky-blue and black damask-patterned curtains, at right. Exaggerated white foam chandeliers hover over the head table and lounge for dramatic dimension.

Opulence extends to the back of the reception as guests make their way to the bar. A custom pattern spans the length of the acrylic bar front featuring a monogram of the couple’s initials.

Hedge walls seen in the ceremony now act as a lush backdrop for the gold bar shelves. The cohesiveness in these details set this day apart from your average wedding celebration. See the complete inspiration at TheWeddingGuys.com/ModernBaroque

Anna Grinets Photography

SPONSORS:

inspiration in full bloom

Photos by Lauren B Photography and Anna Grinets Photography

Celebrity was founded with the goal of providing the very finest china, crystal, cutlery, and cookware available. Skilled handcrafted workmanship ensures the permanent quality and value of every piece.

Our commitment to you is that you will enjoy your investment not only today but for many years to come.

Celebrate a lifetime together with Celebrity China & Cookware.

Find out more at www.celebritychina.com or join us for a preview.