Photo: Lauren Fair Photography
As we start to say goodbye to sun-kissed weather and welcome a brand-new season into our lives, it’s time to say hello to the fall wedding season. With this crisp air and smell of pumpkin spice come some unique wedding trends — fit for even the pickiest of brides. And while some ideas may be incorporated seamlessly into your wedding style, others may feel a bit too risky to attempt. Either way, take note of the four most popular fall 2016 wedding trends that we’re seeing this season and do with them what you wish!
1. Daring Wedding Gowns
As we’ve seen the past few seasons, wedding dresses are becoming more daring. Some wedding dress designers are tossing out tradition — often using different fabrics and colors to create a more 3D effect. Plunging necklines and cutouts are in — which of course includes crop top and skirt ensembeles — a trend that appears to be here to stay.
2. Minimalistic Décor
Instead of pouring thousands of dollars into floral arrangements and towering centerpieces that block guests’ views at their tables, much wedding dé’cor is being toned down this season. This minimalism creates an overall atmosphere that looks effortless and natural is quickly becoming sought after by many brides.
3. Unique, Personalized Menus
Instead of having the usual dinner option of steak or fish, the new trend is to have food that fits in with the bride or groom’s culture (or just liking!). Whether it’s having a BBQ bar or appetizers that encompass one specific genre of food while the main course is another, it’s become quite trendy to mix and match food, serving cuisine that appears to have come straight from the couple’s favorite restaurant.
4. Craft Cocktails
Signature cocktails have been a trend for years at weddings, but the newest trend is doing more craft-style cocktails that look like they came straight out of an episode of Mad Men. In addition to an open bar that serves liquor, beer, and wine, couples are employing a classic cocktail bar where they can order drinks that look like they are straight from ’60s.
Jen Glantz is a “Professional Bridesmaid” and the founder of Bridesmaid for Hire. She’s the author of All My Friends Are Engaged and frequently wears old bridesmaid dresses to the grocery store and on first dates.
See More: Fall 2016 Wedding Dress Trends