Although 2012 is far from over, it’s fun to look back over the last 9 months and see what trends really took hold and which ones are just about  to hit, and hit big!

Metallic Details – Adding a ‘Midas Touch’ to just about anything makes it look more elegant and special. Candles, Cakes, Flowers, gowns… you name it and I can find a photo of something with a spark of silver or a glimmer of gold.

Mini Pies –The perfect combination of crust and filling in a slightly larger than bite-sized portion will have your guests drooling, and asking one another “How cute is that?”

Mini- Everything! – Not just the pies but, just about everything can be mini-sized, from the cocktails to the appetizers!

Personal Touches –   Whether it is a cake that looks like a Gustav Klimt painting, hand detailed table numbers or unique place card holders, couples are making their wedding more personal by incorporating their taste instead of opting for ‘cookie cutter’ weddings. Its all in the details…

Lighting – Statement lighting at the wedding and reception, using various forms of light to create the right mood. Flickering rope lights, overhead lanterns, candles, all forms of lighting can be used in addition to the lighting already offered by the venue to transform a space from casual to cozy or vice versa.

Although very cute, the ‘mini-sized’ trend will probably come and go but, the personal touches are definitely going to be around for a very long time.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago