What's Hot?

If you're making 2008 or even early 2009 your year for a wedding celebration, planning ahead with an eye on the latest trends is easy with this year's seasonal fashions. An up-to-date look is essential for your dream day; this year's themes include glamorous styles and simple details, while the weather and climate will also play a role in the final selections. Whether you're searching for a fairytale wedding gown or looking for a unique way to bring together guests at the wedding reception, here are a few of the top wedding trends for 2008-2009:

1. Lace and Bead Embellishments
 The back of the wedding dress is the focal point this year, and both lace and beaded styles are back on the runways in criss-cross designs. Deep v-backed dresses are a popular find, and embroidered flowers are making an appearance for summer and fall.

2. Eco-Friendly and Organic Weddings
From pesticide-free flowers to serving organic menus in the catering department, having a green wedding is both an environmentally conscious and personal choice. More couples are choosing natural fabrics and sustainable foods for their wedding day, and some are even giving their wedding gifts as donations to favorite charities.

3. Local Attractions for a Location
Botanical gardens in the neighborhood or attractions like the zoo are all prime locations for a unique wedding. More couples are looking at attractions and distinct settings for a more customized wedding event.

4. Bold Colors
Far from the standard white, cream, and pastels, stronger hues are making an appearance. This year's lineup includes royal purple, emerald green, and a deep burgundy red.

5. Chocolate Fountain Centerpiece
This has become a popular addition to many catered parties and events, and continues to draw a crowd to the table with melted chocolate and plenty of dipping fruit.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                           6. Alternative Cakes
Tiramisu, cheesecake, and other favored confections are replacing the standard tiered wedding cake. Couples who enjoy pastries and even cupcakes for dessert are working with wedding cake designers to create a unique, show stopping dessert.

7. Margarita Machines
Frozen margaritas easily dispensed from a machine are a fresh find this year. These machines can fit easily into the punch bowl line, and are a fun way to offer a new drink for all guests.

8. Disney Princess Chic
Disney princess chic. From the Little Mermaid to Princess Jasmine, character-inspired princess dresses hit bridal boutiques in June 2007. Disney will be launching 34 different designs in 2008.

9. You Tube
As many couples take advantage of blogs and individual wedding websites to share their special day with the world, capturing the highlights and uploading them to YouTube and distributing to social networking sites is becoming a low-cost alternative to wedding movies.

10. Spas for Guys
A male pampering session can include a manicure, complete shave, and a pre-wedding massage. Many couples are opting for a pre-wedding relaxation session. Spas and resorts are accommodating the need with fresh spa menus and special couples pricing.