2012’s Trendiest Bridal Accessories

Bridal accessories will be bolder this year and will also reflect the new wave of brides who want to personalise their look or simply be unique; by incorporating traditional elegance with their own modern flair.

Here is the "glam list” for this year:

Victorian-inspired – Accessories are taking a cue from the Victorian era. This year, we are seeing motifs that were once popular on Victorian jewelry such as: flora, fauna and bows. The incorporation of ribbon, lace and tulle on jewelry pieces, is another Victorian influence.

Sashes– Sashes are multifunctional; providing a focal point to simple dresses and helping to create an hourglass shape. They canbe bought in various colours and most are embellished with feathers, jewels, crystals and beadwork. The popular colours this year are: black, blush pink, deep purple, mauve, lavender and champagne or ivory

 

 

Head Gear - The shorter, face framing “bird cage veil” is still popular, as well as fascinators. Ribbon headbands or metallic headbands that incorporate flowers, plumes and crystals are also trending. Other stunners are: bohemian styled-headpieces (similar to what Kim Kardashian wore on her head, for her wedding), jeweled barrettes, embellished hairpins and dramatic, crystal haircombs.

Bold Colour – Modern brides are now exploring coloured gemstones and crystals instead of the traditional clear crystals, diamonds and pearls. Some brides are even opting to match their jewellery with the colour of their bridesmaids’ dresses, for example sets in sapphire, turquoise, onyx, ruby and emerald. Other choose to match jewellery to their shoes, if they have chosen to wear a coloured shoe!

New spin on pearls – Brides who love pearls are now going a fresher route and choosing pearls in black, grey, blush and other pastels.  

Statement Necklaces – Stylish “bib” necklaces are all the rage this year or for those who think those are too daring – long, layered necklaces or chunky “torsade” necklaces (multiple strands of pearls or beads, twisted and held together with a clasp) can also be just as dramatic. These types of necklaces are best for simpler wedding gowns and also work especially well for sleek strapless-styled dresses.  

Wrist Wear- This year, is all about statement cuffs (filigree, studded or solid) as well as stacks of varied bangles, for example pearl bangles interspersed with diamond or rhinestone bangles.

Earrings – Chandelier and shoulder sweeping earrings are still “in,” particularly those that are in the geometric, Art Deco style.

Rings – apart from the engagement ring, trendy brides are now wearing cocktail rings, which feature large real or faux gemstones.

Eco-friendly jewelry – There is now greater interest from brides about jewellery that is ethically-mined, recycled or hand-crafted.

Some Wedding Gown Questions answered!

Decisions! Decisions…but perhaps none more crucial than selecting a gown. After all, this is what tends to “get the ball rolling” for most brides! Choosing the gown is often a precursor to selecting invitations, the cake, catering and décor; since they all feed off of each other for style and design inspiration.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions I receive, about gowns:

What are the pros and cons of using certain bridal gown fabrics?

Chiffon is a perfect choice for our climate; it is very light-weight and tends to keep brides cooler than heavier fabrics. However, since it is so delicate, it can snag and tear quite easily. Satin is a classic, formal fabric; the only drawback is that it can show every undergarment imperfection. 

Lace is a perennial favourite – it can be made see-through or used with an underlay. It does not tend to wrinkle as much as organza and taffeta. However, both organza and taffeta’s strengths lie in being able to achieve full skirts and complicated folds.

What are some tips to consider before I buy my gown online?

Ensure that on the website, you can view detailed photos and even get “zoom” views of gowns. The retailer should also provide descriptions including style, fabric, colour, and size, so that you know exactly what you’re purchasing.

Bridal gown sizes do not usually coincide with regular clothing sizes. Therefore, even though the websites may provide you with gown sizes, be sure to view the website’s body measurement guide and gown length. Enquire about hem and sleeve length as well, since adjustments on embroidered or heavily beaded hems or sleeves, are near impossible to achieve in an easily concealed way.

Before purchasing, ensure that the retailer’s website is a completely secure online environment and it does not store or share your credit card information. Find out whether the website ships internationally, so you can arrange for your gown to be shipped directly to you here. If the retailer only ships to the United States or Canada, you can use your US or Canadian Skybox, or simply arrange to have it delivered to a relative or friend who lives abroad.

What gown colour should I choose?

Oscar de la Renta showcased dresses in robin's egg blue and sage green in his Spring 2012 Bridal Collection. Likewise, Vera Wang showed dresses in a taupe, black, charcoal and celadon green. The most popular colour this year though, seems to be “blush pink.”

Both Badgley Mischka and Monique L’huillier showed dresses in blush pink throughout their collections this year. Even Jessica Biel in her recent October 19, 2012 wedding to Justin Timberlake, chose a petal-pink ball gown.

However, if you’re not adventurous enough for colour, you can look to your skin tone for a hint of what “white” would be best. If you are very pink or your skin has rosy undertones, ivory is a good choice. Olive or medium skin tones lend themselves well to champagne, ecru or off-white gowns. If your skin tone is dark, a crisp white or ecru gown would look stunning.

What’s the difference between a trumpet styled gown and a mermaid styled gown?

Trumpet styled gowns tend to flare out just below the hips, while mermaid styled gowns are more fitted and flare out from the knee or lower down the body.

For more articles, visit our website http://www.trinidadweddings.com
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Insider tips for that perfect wedding photo

Like it or not, if you’re the bride, all spotlights are going to be on you for your wedding. If this makes you feel a bit self conscious and camera-shy; don’t worry, there are methods to camouflage what you don’t like and yes…in certain instances there are even ways to fool the camera!

Here are some tips:

Makeup

(1)  Use water-proof makeup - which is made with ingredients that repel water. The first step for face coverage, is to ask your makeup artist for water-proof versions of: primer, concealer, foundation, setting powder and lipsticks or lip stains. Primer helps makeup go on evenly and prevents creasing and caking of your foundation. Waterproof cream-based blushes tend to stay well-pigmented on the skin and last throughout the day. This is in contrast to powder blushes, which may need re-applications.

Wearing waterproof mascara is also essential. It is good for standing up to light perspiration or minimal eye-watering.

Airbrushed makeup and mineral makeup also stand the test of time and heat. They also tend to have a more natural look. An added bonus is that most mineral makeup lines tend to provide both UVA and UVB protection for your skin.

(2)  Touch ups – Always have some pressed powder or oil-blotting papers on hand to freshen up your makeup. A critical area for touch ups are the eyes; since natural oils produced by the eyelids can cause eyeshadows to pool in the creases. 

Posing

(3)  Observe proper posture –Always try to be aware of creating height in photos. When sitting or standing, try to maintain a straight back with relaxed shoulders (this requires some practice!), keep your tummy in and wear your best smile. However, avoid sticking your chest out!

(4)  Use your bouquet effectively - The majority of photographers will recommend that when you pose with your bouquet; you rest your lower arm softly against your hip bones. This avoids the unnatural look of brides trying to angle their hips away from the camera.

Close-up photos may require you to hold your bouquet above your waist; and for full length shots, you can try holding your bouquet below the waist.

(5)  Knowing your “best side” – if you’re self-conscious about your double chin, how a particular side of your face looks or a particular type of angle (for example, a side profile photo) be sure to let your photographer know in advance so that he/she can suggest solutions.   

Timing

(1)  Ask your photographer to shoot during early morning or late afternoon, in order to give your skin a softer and warmer tone.

For more tips and articles, please visit: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

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TrinidadWeddings.com...giving a voice to "solopreneurs"

One thing I’ve learned about being in the wedding industry in Trinidad and Tobago, is that in the majority, the industry consists of small to medium-sized operators or vendors; and of the small ones, there are micro-operators.

These “solopreneurs” are the ones who have taken their love of decorating, consulting and creating and made their hobbies into sideline businesses.

When I started TrinidadWeddings.com in mid-2004, one of the visions was to create a “voice” or “platform” for those very solopreneurs – the people who would never be found in their amazing niches if it wasn’t for the internet and the TW Wed-Zine magazine.

Eight years later, we are more than ever committed to finding avenues where buyers can “support local” and where our advertised vendors can get maximum value.

This is why we will be partnering with Eventuality Limited for The Ultimate Epicurean and Boutique Market on October 27 at the Crown Plaza’s Ballroom.

It’s the first installment of markets for the Holiday season and is designed to facilitate independent vendors or independent business owners who need additional opportunities to market their services through in-house promotions and on screen advertising.

Andrea Coutain, Event Developer for Eventuality Lifestyle Events says “This event is different from the other “markets” as a vendor gets more than a table; vendors are given event marketing support leading up to the event and product marketing support at the event.”

 
There will be fantastic products and sampling from the Sweet and Savory section, make-up demonstrations and products in the Wellness and Beauty section. Customers can try on fashion clothing and accessories in the Jewelry and Apparel section and get home essentials at the Home, Art and Décor section.

TrinidadWeddings.com will be there to offer advice to brides-to-be and to offer a selection of top-quality bridal jewellery, hair ornaments and sashes. TW Wed-Zine magazines and bridal emergency kits will also be on sale.

Entertainment will be provided by Peter Louis of the band Zandolee and Random Rewards to customers throughout the day.

The Ultimate Epicurean and Boutique Market is supported by TrinidadWeddings.com, Heartbeat 103.5FM – Radio for Women, Gourmet Market by XE, AVit Support and First Batch Gourmet Cookies – Homemade from Scratch.

Admission is free of charge to the public, so I hope to see you there!

For more information on this event or future events check:www.facebook.com/theultimateepicureanandboutiquemarket or email at info@eventualityltd.com

Wrapping it up…the eco-friendly way

I first met Harper Della Pina, designer of the Wrapture Collection by Seams, last year in New York. What really got us deep in conversation was how versatile her dress designs were for destination weddings; and especially for the climate here in Trinidad & Tobago.

And another plus? Her designs are all eco-friendly!

In fact, Harper’s collection was featured as part of the Green Bride Guide's eco-style predictions for the upcoming Jolie-Pitt Wedding!

Her dresses are designed for both brides and bridesmaids. They’re made from natural fabrics such as hemp/silk, pineapple pina fibre (yes…from the pineapple plant!) and 100% silk. The silk that Harper uses, is entirely hand-made by a family mill in India.

Her dresses are all wrap dresses – so they’re versatile for fittings, varying body shapes and can definitely be worn again after the wedding. Harper says, “The Wrapture Collection is a ready-to-wear “design your own collection” and the only wrap and tie gown collection of its kind.” Her gowns are available in various retail stores in the USA.  

Recently, Harper’s “Dalia” Gown was centre stage at a photo shoot done by planner and photographer, Binita Patel. Here’s what Binita had to say about her inspiration behind the shoot:

“This shoot was inspired completely by the bright yellow tones of Spring sunshine.  I really wanted to make sure that everything about this shoot felt very organic, fresh, clean and simple.  Our linen supplier had a wonderful textured tablecloth, with a petal-like pattern that just felt so natural.  This was the starting point of the design.  From there, I enhanced the concept by choosing chargers and napkins to really emphasize the bright sunshine tones of the overall inspiration.  

The Willowdale Estate is very rustic and humble, so I went with more classic-shaped stemware and wooden chivari chairs, to add to the organic feeling of the theme. I wanted the florals to feel simple and wild... straight out of nature almost.  Even our hair and makeup artists stayed true to the theme by selecting clean and fresh tones for the bride's look.  Everything came together beautifully, and the Willowdale Estate served as a beautiful and open backdrop for the shoot.”

Check the slideshow here for beautiful images from the shoot:
http://slideroll.com/?s=37k5crh8 
 
Credits:
Planner - Binita Patel
Location - Willowdale Estate (willowdaleestate.com)
Photography - BINITA PATEL Photography (www.binitapatelphotography.com)
Hair - Maricruz (www.maricruzhairstyles.com)
Makeup - Liz Washer (www.bridalbyliz.com)
Models - Kendra & Matt
Dress - The Wrapture Collection by SEAMS (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.159734224059887.32283.142700012429975&type=3)
Florals - Orchids N ' Blooms (orchidsnblooms.com)
Stationary - Allure (www.allureinvites.com)

More Dress info:

The Wrapture Collection 'Dalia' Gown retails for $680. Made in the USA of 100% silk. This style is has a full length pleated skirt
https://www.facebook.com/WraptureCollectionbySEAMS
Headband and matching Groom's Bowtie in our Etsy Shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/SEAMS  

 

 

A Bride’s guide to beach weddings in Trinidad & Tobago

Photo provided through the kind courtesy of
 Liz Chung LukPat Photography
http://www.lizphotoimages.com/

 

Weddings on the seashore are something most of us can easily envision – the bride’s gauzy gown floating in the wind, the groom looking into her eyes and the ocean’s waves in the background.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the planning elements involved:



Logistics
It may be considerate of you as a host, to arrange transportation for your guests and wedding suppliers. Will it be by boat, maxi taxi, bus or car pool? Remember too, that if you’re having a wedding on a secluded beach or if it will be held in the late evening,  guests may be concerned about security for both themselves and their vehicles. It may also be a good idea to include a map of your venue, within your wedding invitation.

Amenities
Once your guests arrive, they will require restrooms, seating, garbage disposals and shady areas out of the sun. A practical solution may be to choose a hotel or venue, which features a beach front. This way, guests can retreat inside to use amenities, once you pay the requisite fees to the venue. Once dining and dancing are going to be on the agenda, be sure to erect some sort of sturdy flooring in those areas, to prevent guests’ feet from sinking into the sand. Also remember that you will have no electricity, which may pose problems for lighting and sound, unless this is planned for in advance.
 

Choosing a tented reception venue
If it is not possible to have your wedding near to a waterfront hotel or venue, you may have to opt for a tented reception venue. These have the advantage of flexibility –a tent can be erected almost anywhere (once permission/a permit has been obtained). Tents also come in varying sizes and styles and can accommodate any number of guests.

They will also work well during the dry season. However, you will have to create a comfortable environment under a tent. Therefore, you will have to think about renting portable restroom facilities, air conditioning/fans, tables, chairs, a stage, dance floor, tent walls, installing lighting and providing cooking and electrical facilities for the caterer and DJ.

Your budget may also increase, since decorators may also have to get sturdier design elements rather than lightweight decorations that would fly away or fall down with the breeze. Alternatively, you can go the affordable “au natural” way and use beach sand, sea shells, raffia, baskets and starfish as your décor!

Time of day
It may be more practical to have an early morning or a late afternoon wedding, since during the day, beaches tend to be crowded. During the day, there is an increased chance of having curious onlookers in the background of your wedding photos and unwanted sounds on your wedding video. If you are having a wedding on the beach, at night, remind your guests to bring warm clothing since it may get chilly.

How to book a beach wedding locally?

Depending on which beach you choose, you may have to write the Tourism Development Company (TDC) and ask for permission. Beaches which require permission are: Maracas, Las Cuevas, Vessigny and Manzanilla. Your letter must reach the TDC no later than one month before your wedding. There is a rental fee and a caution fee to be paid; and you will have to organize a police presence, as well as notify the Lifeguard Services Department.

Once perfectly planned, beach weddings can go without a hitch. If these issues seem too much for you to handle, a good option is to hire a wedding co-ordinator. 

For more articles, visit our website: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Join our Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/trinidadweddings

 

 

What’s hot in bridal shoes for 2012?

Based on a request from Disney Studios to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of Cinderella; renowned French shoe designer Christian Louboutin, was recently asked to create a modern “glass slipper.”

His stunning, final design was a lace shoe – to give the effect of transparency. The shoe was studded with crystals, two crystal butterflies and an entirely crystal encrusted heel.

The current collections of bridal shoes are now no less intricate and eye-catching. In terms of embellishments, brides are leaning towards shoes featuring: lace, bows, crystals, brooches, sequins, feathers, and ruffles.

Here are some of 2012’s top bridal shoe trends: 

Metallics – metallic shoes are “in” not only because of the glitz they bring but also because of their versatility. Pewter, bronze, silver and gold shoes can certainly be worn again after the wedding.

Prints – brides are foregoing the typical white or ivory bridal shoe for interesting prints in florals, geometric and even animal prints.

Pastels – pastel shoes are having a resurgence, perhaps because of the popularity of vintage-themed weddings. Favourite colours for shoes are: mint, lavender, blush pink, and baby blue.

Colour – the coloured bridal shoe trend has been around for the past two years. This year, a different take on colour comes from neon and with colour-blocked shoes (shoes with different bands of colour).

Cap toe shoes – these are shoes with a “cap” of metallic or a “cap” of colour or different fabric to the front of the shoe. They were first made popular by Coco Chanel.

Velvet – velvet shoes are currently the “it” shoes for bridal. Again, this type of lush fabric goes very well with weddings that have a vintage theme.  

Peep-toe platforms – these types of shoes are favoured by brides because of their comfort factor. The platforms to the front of the shoe are more comfortable than regular stilettos since feet don’t have to arch very high.

Bridal wedges – wedges are now being glamed up with crystals, pretty straps and other embellishments. They are perfect for garden weddings.

The “unconventional” – some brides are going the quirky route by choosing personalized Converse sneakers, ballet flats and custom-painted pumps. Some do-it-yourself brides are choosing to decorate their own shoes by doing hand-appliqués and applying their own crystals.  

For more wedding articles, click here: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

The proof is in the make-up!

It’s humid. The temperature is like a furnace inside your bridal gown. Then, the perspiration comes - even though you don’t want it to. Little by little, you feel the beads of foundation trickling down your face. The perspiration drops accelerate and roll into your eyes. You try to wink them away but all you get is a train track of black mascara, eyeliner and blush, all down your face.

Phew…then you wake up. It was only a wedding nightmare after all!

It may seem like a bad dream but the reality is that sometimes even the best makeup doesn’t stand a chance against our tropical climate’s humidity, wind, rain and heat. This is particularly true if you’re having an outdoor or beach wedding. Add bouts of emotion and tears to the humidity factor and you have a recipe for a streaky face and raccoon eyes.

One solution to keep that “blushing bride look,” is to use water-proof makeup - which is made with ingredients that repel water. The first step for face coverage is to ask your makeup artist for water-proof versions of: primer, concealer, foundation, setting powder and lipsticks or lip stains. Primer helps makeup go on evenly and prevents creasing and caking of your foundation.

Waterproof cream-based blushes tend to stay well-pigmented on the skin and last throughout the day. This is in contrast to powder blushes, which may need re-applications.

The eyes are the most critical area, since many brides tend to tear up or be prone to contact lens irritation. Waterproof eyeshadows, gel-based eyeliners and waterproof mascaras are good choices. Be aware though, that not all mascaras are created equal.

“Water-resistant” mascaras may not equal the staying power of water-proof mascaras. Water-resistant mascaras are good for standing up to light perspiration or minimal eye-watering. However, water-proof mascaras can go the distance of lasting throughout a shower or a swim!  If you’re wearing fake eyelash strips, it is also best to use water-proof eyelash glue.

Some make-up artists also recommend using makeup setting sprays. These are products designed to help your make-up become more water and sweat resistant. Liquid sealers are also available and are applied with a wand or brush. They work well to ensure makeup is long-wearing. However, they tend to leave a film or shine and so may not be suitable if you want to use shimmer eyeshadows and blush.

It’s important to note that rubbing can remove almost any type of waterproof makeup. Therefore, it’s best to avoid rubbing your eyes. Your makeup will last longer if you pat your face, especially with blotting papers.

After all, you need a dewy, fresh face and a pretty pucker for your “I do” kiss!

For more wedding articles, click here: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Trinidad Weddings' Ultimate Guide To Writing Thank you Notes!

This week, on a visit to my daughter’s school, I happened to be waiting in the reception area for a short while. A bold sign displayed on the notice board caught my eye, “Be a CLASS act, have good manners!” 

It struck me how much this holds true not only in daily life but when it comes to events in general and weddings, in particular. It’s an area often overlooked after the flurry of the honeymoon is over and as newly-weds settle into married life and back into their working lives, post-wedding.

However, proper etiquette dictates that even if you have thanked guests in person, you are still expected to send out a formal note or card. Thank you cards should always be handwritten and should contain a personalised message to your guest.

Your thank you notes should be sent within 6-8 weeks of the date the gift was received. Although it does involve “work” – (sometimes writing hundreds of cards!) it is a gesture that guests will appreciate and remember for years to come.

If you have received a gift from a group, perhaps co-workers or another association, you are required to send a thank you card to each person in the group. Should the group’s members be in excess of 10 persons, you can do a general thank you card to the entire organisation.

Here’s a fool-proof guide to get you started:

1.    Keep a detailed list of gifts received and from whom.

2.    Direct the note to all of the gift-givers of the particular gift; with the names and titles that you are accustomed to addressing them by.

3.    Always mention the gift by name and try as much as possible to avoid referring to it as “the gift”

4.    Mention any special effort that the guest would have made for you e.g. helping you craft a speech, volunteering their time, giving a heartfelt toast or travelling from abroad.

5.    State how you plan to use the gift, particularly if it was a cash gift. You can say that perhaps you are putting the monies toward new appliances or using it for a one-year anniversary vacation.

6.    Only if it is realistic for you, you may also want to mention a future encounter with the gift-givers, for example having them over for dinner or going out for drinks, but this is totally optional and depends on how close you are, to the guests in question.

7.    Thank you cards need not be limited to guests alone. They can also be sent to wedding suppliers who did exceptional jobs, your officiant, persons who organised the bridal shower and bachelor party and your parents!

For more articles, visit: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Bridal Hair & Makeup Trends for 2012

Last year the bridal beauty watchwords were “natural and luminous.”

The emphasis was on the bride showcasing healthy, glowing skin; and there was widespread use of highlighter, bronzer or face shimmer, as well as peachy, coral or pink shades of blush.

This year, the look in bridal makeup is “romantic, feminine and retro,” with a profusion of pink and orange blush tones, pretty pastel eyes and dramatic lips.

Some trends in bridal hair and makeup trends for this year are:

Eyes - The smoky eye with the nude lip combination remains popular, however, this year, pastel eyeshadows in colours such as: lavender, mint green, pink and peach, are in vogue. These demure eye colours are being juxtaposed with false eyelashes or heavy mascara application and/or liquid eyeliner.  Alternatively, the eyes can be kept very neutral with colour enhancing the bride’s face, from a brighter choice of blush and lipstick.

Lip Colour – Many brides are going for a more “retro glam” type of makeup, preferring a neutral eye, in exchange for a deeper lip colour. These vibrant colours are replacing the nude and sheer lips of previous years. Last year’s lip “it” colours were deep mauve, cranberry, red and rose. This year, red will stay but bright pink, coral and orange-toned lips will be popular. There will be a preference of lipsticks versus lip glosses.

Hair – The most popular hairstyle for this year’s modern bride will be the chignon or ballerina bun. An embellished headband or a veil worn away from the face is a perfect complement to this hairstyle. More and more brides are choosing to wear their hair up or away from the face.

Bridal hairstyles with loose waves and soft curls will also be seen. These natural and “easy” hairstyles are a stark contrast to the formal, up-do’s of years gone by.

Brides who still favour a more structured hairstyle can choose the very vintage-like pin curls or a modern take on the “bee hive” hairdo.   

Creative Cake Toppers

The tiny plastic, bride and groom figurines, which were popularized in the 1950’s are now a far cry from the cake toppers which are used today. Some people believe that the trend of cake toppers started with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s wedding cake in 1840, upon which, there was a figurine of the goddess Brittania, blessing the newlyweds. Shortly after this, cake toppers began to be mass-produced in the 1890's.

Modern cake toppers now come in a selection of ethnicities and materials, such as: glass, wire, acrylic, resin and porcelain. Flowers, sculptures, and large monogrammed letters are replacing the traditional bride and groom cake toppers.



All embellishments, including the topper on this cake are made of sugar!
Photographed at Lenotre - Paris, France
Photo copyright: Trinidad weddings 2010

Here are some ideas:

Monogram or initial cake toppers in Swarovski crystals - not only do these appear in clear crystals but now can be customized with coloured crystals (for e.g. in pink, red etc.) for a co-ordinated look. Small wooden dowels are usually inserted into the bottom of each letter, to make it ready to be inserted into the cake

Cake jewellery – these typically hang off the top of the cake from wires and are usually in the shape of hearts, birds, stars and butterflies.

Figurines that represent your hobbies - e.g. a groom fishing for his bride or a groom golfing or playing football etc.

Fresh flowers - this option is much more affordable than having sugar or gum paste flowers made and you can personalize it by having some of the same flowers that appear in your bouquet, appear on the top of your cake, or you can have the flowers that appear on your invitations ( e.g. roses, calla lilies) , appear as “live” versions on your cake.

A walk on the wild side – Acrylic toppers in zebra and leopard print

Birds – This year, natural motifs are very popular on cakes. Birds, in particular, especially handmade ones made from wood, porcelain, burlap and polymer clay are being seen.

Fondant figurines – if you have a very skilled cake artist he/she can make customized figurines for you out of fondant icing.

Themed – if you are fan of a particular cartoon or show, you can select toppers to suit for e.g. Disney or Star Trek characters.

How to choose your wedding colours

This year, the Pantone Colour Institute predicts that the reigning colour at weddings will be tangerine. The last time we saw this hue so popular was in 2009, when wedding decor ran the gamut from burnt oranges to vibrant tangerines.

In 2010 there was a new-comer - the colour turquoise. At that time, it was all the rage for turquoise to be paired with chocolate brown or for a more vintage, retro effect it was combined with red or yellow. It was also popularly paired with burgundy or black for more of a modern flair and drama. The turquoise craze was followed by a pinkish-coral colour in 2011, that Pantone dubbed “Honeysuckle.”

Here’s a guide to selecting a colour scheme

1.    The location of your wedding could be a beginning point in choosing your colours, for example, if it will be held in a rustic setting or outdoors, you may choose more earthy colours to complement it. However, if it is in a hotel ballroom, you can select colours that would match with the existing décor that’s in the room.

2.    The theme of your wedding can also guide you about colour selection, for instance, if you have chosen a “nautical” theme, you can go with navy blues, crisp whites and bright reds, or if you have selected a “tropical” theme, you can choose oranges, pinks and yellows.

3.    When selecting a colour, always consider the mood you would like to create or as we say locally, what’s the “vibe” of your wedding? This is where you get to determine the mindset you would like to set for your guests – for example, ethereal and romantic? Trendy and modern? Remember that the more vivid the colours you select, the more upbeat and dramatic your wedding’s mood will seem. Colours like red, purples, oranges and yellows set a mood of fun and lend excitement. If you select milder, more muted or metallic colours, these will lend themselves to a more elegant or sophisticated ambience.  

4.    Start an inspiration board – use a bulletin board or even a paper folder and save magazine clippings or photos that inspire your wedding colour choices. Visit your local fabric stores or hardware stores and watch the paint charts, to see what colours or prints catch your eye. Then ask for swatches, so that you can add them to your inspiration board to help with your decision-making. Another great idea is to show your inspiration board to your florist, your cake artists as well as your decorator.  This will help them get a better sense of how you envision your wedding’s décor.  If you want to explore virtual inspiration boards, you can visit www.pinterest.com

5.    Choose a primary colour and one or two secondary colours. It may not be a good idea to select more than three colours because it will make your wedding palette look confused.  

6.    Be open to more unusual colour combinations or trios such as:

·         Blush pink and grey

·         Gold and teal

·         Gray, yellow, navy blue

·         Fuchsia, black and turquoise

·         Black, white and yellow

·         Plum, chocolate brown and yellow

·         Aqua, teal and yellow

·         Coral, kiwi-green and ivory

And lastly, when selecting your colours, always be yourself and don’t be afraid to break with tradition. Your guests will be delighted by a wedding that is not the “same old!” Go back to http://www.trinidadweddings.com