Putting A Twist On Tradition

Summer has traditionally been a choice season for weddings, but these 8 new summer wedding trends from The Knot prove there’s always room for some creative fun.

1. Dynamic Colors

Sophisticated bright colors are hot. Sticking to two hues, or two plus an accent color, will keep things unified. Instead of splashing color all over the reception space, choose one dynamic color for a strong statement, like all-pink centerpieces instead of multicolored ones.

2. Laid back Music

A pianist or string trio work well for a formal cocktail hour, but consider some alternate music styles that just feel like summer. Steel drums or a singer with a ukelele create a laid-back vibe. To add an upbeat tempo to the evening, bring out classic swing or big band music.

3. New Themes

Beach and garden themes are summer classics, but you can change things up by adding a personal touch. Think about your favorite summer hangouts when you plan your theme. Add specific elements that remind you of a childhood beach or cabin in the woods. You can also hint at your honeymoon destination by adding elements from that part of the world to your wedding theme, like black lava rocks in the bottom of your centerpiece vases if you’re going to Hawaii.

4. Unexpected Invites

Reverse the typical color scheme on your invites to use the colors in an unexpected way. Instead of using pink lettering on a cream-colored paper, use cream lettering on a pink invite. One hot idea is to get fabric-printed invites, programs and escort cards for that laid-back summer look.

5. Natural Centerpieces

Ask your florist to hollow out watermelons to use as a centerpiece container that looks fun and seasonal. Or go natural and eco-friendly with your containers. Use wooden vases or pedestals with grass to give centerpieces a natural textured feel.

6. Wine Smoothies

Cold and frosty, just what your guests need in the summer. Instead of a run-of-the-mill margarita or daiquiri, ask for a wine smoothie. It consists of fruity wine blended with ice and fruits of your choice. It’s a refreshing and creative signature drink, so inquire with your caterer about it.

7. Seasonal Wedding Cakes

Think of flavors like fresh strawberries and whipped cream filling for a strawberry shortcake-style wedding cake or a citrus filling like Key lime, lemon or orange vanilla buttercream. Also consider serving other desserts. The Knot suggests hiring an ice cream truck to arrive at the end of the night to offer summer favorites to add just the right dose of nostalgia to the night.

8. Eco-Friendly Party Favors

Eco-friendly favors are bigger than ever, and they’re fitting if you’re having an outdoor wedding. Give guests locally grown herbs in recyclable glass jars or tin cans. You can dress them up with ribbon or paper that match your wedding theme. You can also consider donating to a local charity as your wedding favor.

And one tradition that never goes out of style is hiring a wedding limousine from a safe, professional Cincinnati limo service.

Image courtesy of Timeless Photography / FreeDigitalPhotos.net