CheekyChicago

What’s in a wedding in the New Year? Trends that say ‘I Do’ in 2009 emulate the beauty of days past, with a splash of style that’s purely modern.

Gowns

Brides are wearing romantic, vintage gowns that give a nod to Veronica Lake’s Hollywood Glamour era. Creamy, ivory lace and embellished dresses with lots of layers and texture replace the simpler choices of years past. Thick ribbons and silk flowers wrap the bride in decadence. The look is pure vintage, with lots of detail and design – even if the dress is new.

Gorgeous gowns that recall the past are also adorned in vintage style…intricate broaches (one favorite bridal touch – replace your ceremony broach for the reception with a monogrammed broach signifying your new married name); dramatic, embroidered veils like the elegant Mantilla; and classic accessories, like couture satin shoes and purses that harken back to the starlet days of the 1950s – these components complete the bridal look in 2008.

Couture Invitations

A splendid affair begins with the invitations and Save-the-Dates. This year’s invitations are going to be custom designed, with hand calligraphy instead of standard wedding font typestyles. (One favorite touch – if a friend is an artist, have them custom design an “icon” you can use on all printed pieces – from Save the Date to invitation to program to ‘Thank You.’ We suggest framing it after the wedding – it is the best wedding gift you could possibly receive.) The print is vintage letterpress, in rich romantic inks, sealed with a silky ribbon accent.

Florals

Detail and texture are also the fashion for floral designs. Whether bouquets for the bride and her party or centerpieces at the reception, flowers share the spotlight with fruit and feathers and jewels for a romantic, whimsical touch.

Flower choices this year are all-things-romantic, like textured peonies, garden roses and spray roses. Antique silver urns and julep cups round out the lush florals. Vintage-inspired jewels fasten silk ribbons for sparkling beauty. Fresh lavender, silk ribbon-tied boutonnieres round things out for the guys.

Eat, Drink

What could be more romantic than a specialty cocktail, designed just for the bride and groom? This year’s wedding celebrations start off with the perfect sip, showcasing the happy couple’s style.

Tempt the palate with chic, bite-size goodness: panini lollipops, passed as an hors d’oeuvre in glass bud vases with greens; mini-sandwiches; and petite donuts with a shot of milk to end the evening on a sweet note.

Throw in some lush lounge seating and your guests will be celebrating in style. Sofas, pillows and rugs that evoke a luxurious living room to be enjoyed throughout the evening provide the final detail.

This year’s wedding is certain to be an affair to remember!