Top Spring Wedding Trends for 2018
From charcoal to charcuterie, keep your eye out for these eight trends on the rise this spring.
Trust us: we’re not here to tell you that we’re seeing a lot of florals this spring. Instead, we tapped our very own wedding and event experts Julie Stulberg (The Carlu) and Diana Ho (Arcadian) to share which trends are on the rise this season, from cosmic colour palettes to tiny hot dogs.
LET’S GET NAKED
Hey, sometimes less is more, right? We’re starting to see naked (frosting-free) tiered cakes take centre stage at our clients’ weddings. “These beautiful cakes look more organic, rustic and casual compared to your typical fondant or buttercream cakes,” says Julie. “They are still just as tasty, and can be decorated with live plants, dripped chocolate, sugar flowers, and even fruit.”
TICKLE ME PURPLE
Last year was all about greenery and simplicity. This year, Pantone shocked everyone with their colour of the year: ultra violet. While we don’t condone going overboard on this deep, blue-based purple, there are understated ways of working the cosmic hue into your wedding details. “You can try to add subtle violet hints with your floral combinations, napkins for your place settings, or even on your invitations,” suggests Diana. “Try pairing metallics – such as a gold charger with a purple napkin, or a silver mercury vase with a mix of white and purple florals as a centerpiece – to give your wedding day a bigger statement.”
LOFTY GOALS
Industrial and loft-like spaces like Arcadian Loft and Aperture Room are in high-demand for 2018 weddings. “Couples are more interested in these venues due to their modern and simple – yet edgy – blank canvas to create their dream wedding,” explains Diana. One other great benefit? There won’t be a fuss looking for an alternative plan in case of inclement weather.
UP YOUR CHARCUTERIE GAME
Charcuterie boards have always been a trusty go-to for any event, but why not make that kind of spread more of a focal point of your wedding’s cocktail reception? A rustic harvest table decked out with plenty of crusty breads, cured meats, soft and hard cheeses, fresh crudités, and housemade dips has become a crowd favourite among our clients. “We suggest adding one of these tables in addition to interactive food stations and/or passed canapés,” says Julie. “This gives guests the opportunity to graze at their own pace, and choose their own food.” Plus, no one will complain about being hangry!
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOOK
Taking a cue from Etsy, more couples are starting to make their “guest book” a more personalized representation of themselves, whether it’s a framed photo for guests to sign, or an artist-designed guest book. “From puzzle piece to Jenga tiles, we are seeing an influx of creative ideas,” says Julie.
BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
So long tropical paradise, hello bohemian era! “Expect to see macramé and crystal rocks everywhere this year,” says Diana. “If you’re looking for something fun to do with your bridal party, take a local macramé workshop to fuel the inner DIY-er in you. You can use these pieces as table runners, bouquet wraps, chair décor, and more. It will also be a wonderful keepsake that you can use to decorate your living room after the wedding!”
CHARCOAL IS (STILL) CHIC
There’s no doubt about it: charcoal is everywhere, and the culinary industry is going crazy with new and inventive ways to keep this food colour trend afloat. From charcoal ice cream and squid ink pizza crust, to black macarons and wedding cakes, this trend is perfect for those looking to inject a little drama and moodiness into their celebration.
COMFORT IS KING
Even though your heels might be killing you by the end of the night, that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a little comfort food. “Our chefs are increasingly seeing more requests for simple and easy light night fare,” says Julie. From our interactive s’mores station to tiny hot dogs and grilled cheese, we’re bringing it back old school with favourites from your childhood. Bonus: these bite-sized snacks are perfect for soaking up all that extra alcohol.
Photo credit: Purple Tree Photography