As an Irish wedding band we perform at a wide variety of weddings. This allows us to experience all types of weddings, from the traditional, to the alternative. The wedding industry is constantly evolving. Many Irish Brides are following trends that start across the Atlantic in the USA which they see on major wedding blogs and social bookmarking sites like Pinterest and Instagram. Here we profile some of the hottest summer wedding trends this season.
Pretty in Pink Pastel
While pastel colours have always been popular with Summer Brides, pink is now back with a bang. It is very much the blush, nude and pearly pinks this season, not the bright hot pinks. This translates across the colour scheme and can be seen in the Bridesmaids dresses, invitations, floral centre piece, button holes and general décor. It is a return to feminine romance. Gold, peach and mint complement this colour well.
Lush Romantic Flowers
Last season succulents and wildflowers were en vogue and featured in many bridal bouquets and center pieces. A return to romance has now paved the way for pretty Peonies which are in season in May. Gerberas and Zinnia’s are also in season in June and July. The other floral trend is the garland, lavished over doorways and as runners on dinner tables. Fern garlands are very popular and the quirky Bride will use citrus garlands of lemons, limes and oranges on their stems to create a sense of whimsy.
Cakes That Sparkle
The traditional porter cakes covered in white icing have evolved into masterpieces of art. One of the biggest trends is to have a cake dusted with a fine fairy dust of glitter. Gold’s and silvers are very popular. For summer, Brides are choosing light lemon flavours and keeping the chocolate praline for winter weddings. For a while cupcakes were the alternative to cakes, but the emerging trend from the US are donuts in a variety of flavours.
Family Style Food
Dining has become more casual. A ‘family style’ approach of tapas, cheeses, cold meats and antipasto has become popular at many weddings. Food is served on large platters for guests to help themselves. While some Brides opt for this for one course, for example the starter, and then proceed to have the formal main course, others include this style the whole way through the meal. The other foodie trend is for spicy food including adding chilli oil, paprika and mixed spices to foods as Brides get braver in their food choices.