As I’ve already dedicated an entire post to looking back at 2008…

I wanted to pass on some observations and talk about coming wedding trends for 2009.

As wedding planners we get to see glimpses of things to come – we get to attend fashion shows, and national conferences where new ideas are being tested out –

And hopefully, hopefully we’re working with clients who are fashion forward themselves, and trust our design sense, and want to be trend setters…

I’ve heard in the past that “navy is the new black”, “grey is the new black” and even for a while “brown is the new black” –

My answer is that for 2009 – BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK! –

 I’m seeing a return to glamour with retro inspired looks using black and white as grounding colors with silver, gold or a pop of color as an accent…

I’m seeing clean contemporary spaces using high gloss containers, lounge furniture and clean lines

Little black dresses – chosen by each bridesmaid according to what flatters her shape…

Black is back…

I’m seeing Wine –

Great deep red wine tones of Burgundy, Claret, and Merlot in linen, accents and bridesmaids dresses. Wine pairings with food courses and wine tastings during cocktail receptions

Food trends will continue to rock the wedding world as couples keep looking for new ways to excite guests that have been to 15 wedding in the last year!

Participation, customization and visually interesting will be the buzz words – rustic cooking will make a comeback and family style service will replace lines at buffets.

Peruvian food and noodle bars will be edging in there next to Thai food and sushi stations- you’ll see more and more mixing of ethnic foods, and layering of exotic flavors…

I see the continuation of more eco-friendly weddings with charities delivering left over flowers to hospitals and nursing homes, fresh local seasonal ingredients will still be king, and I see caterers and reception venues upping their game in terms of the number of items they recycle at events…

With everyone talking about the horrors of the economy – I still see lots of weddings in 2009

I’m sure we’ll see longer engagements into 2010 to save money, and while people ride out the market for their investments to come back up…

2009 will be interesting – busy – lots of new flavors, colors and trends – people want to be entertained!

Happy New Year 2009!