Wedding décor trends for 2013

This year many modern brides are going for understated elegance regarding their décor. Others are going the more eclectic route—without having everything too “matchy-matchy.” Generally, brides are also still embracing the vintage trend and selecting themes and mementoes from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s, in particular.

Perhaps this has much to do with a resurgence in television shows and movies such as: Mad Men, Boardwalk Empire, Pan Am, and the making of the movie version of The Great Gatsby.

The colours associated with these bygone eras are mainly pastels. Therefore, some colours that may feature in décor this year are: mint green, blush, peach and pale yellows.

Here are some of the trends for 2013:
• Handmade—Hand-crafted paper bunting and fabric pennants are popping up all over in weddings this year. Also gaining in popularity are wooden letters and coloured cardboard banners, signage and even quirky chalkboard signs that announce: “Mr & Mrs” or “Just Married.” There has been an increase in flowers that are hand-made from fabric, buttons, brooches, paper (tissue, origami or collage) and even pom-poms. Instead of throwing rice or petals, guests can be given ribbon flags instead, yet another handmade element. The photo opportunities for these are amazing.

• From light to dark—Light shades moving into darker shades of the same colour are what is called an “ombre” effect. This is becoming quite popular in décor; so for example, we are seeing very pale aquas going into deep blue-greens, or light lavenders into plum shades. 

• Tablescapes—This trend was popular in 2012 and will not wane in 2013. To achieve it, use multiple arrangements, perhaps in varying heights or sizes, in combination with candles and accessories such as: pearls, figurines, antique books, frames, bird cages, lanterns, scattered crystals, twigs, birds’ nests, terrariums, fruit, seashells and photos. 

• Rustic sparkle—mixing traditional rustic elements such as baskets, bark, feathers, burlap, check and gingham with luxurious items made of china, crystal and glass. 

• Mix and match—Instead of having the identical centrepiece on each table, brides are going for more visual interest. They’re mixing different styles, heights or colours of centrepieces. Mixing textures will also feature prominently in 2013, with brides choosing textured linens and linens featuring bold patterns.

• Caged and covered—Look for floral centrepieces, statement blooms, or mini terrariums to be covered with bird cages or with elegant glass, bell-shaped receptacles. 

• Floating flowers—Centrepieces are now hanging from the ceiling. Blooms are now being suspended from lanterns, glass vases, or cones. Another alternative is hanging garlands, flower chandeliers and pomanders.

• Green accents—The use of succulents/cacti and herbs (think rosemary, mint and basil) in centrepieces. Other trendy “green” accents are moss and wheat grass.