So you’re just starting to plan your party or wedding reception and are wondering what is trending this year. This year’s food, décor, and themes will add a little twist and excitement to any event.

Cocktail and food pairings are gaining popularity. For appetizers, try serving a mini taco with a margarita shooter, a ravioli or meatball in marinara with a mini glass of Chianti, or a special beer with a pretzel or pizza bite, and of course passing a cookie with a milk shot is sure to bring a smile to your guests. Couples are also opting out of cakes and choosing a variety of sweets for their dessert like ice cream bars, s’more bars or a variety of pies.

For the latest in décor, metallics are still going strong with rose quartz taking center stage this year. Silver is fading out a bit with the golds, in the form of table linens to room décor to laser-cut signs, adding just the right amount of bling to any event. Even rustic chic décor is adding metallic touches to create a more glamourous look.

Floral walls and hanging centerpieces are also big this year. Use the walls of flowers or greenery as a backdrop to a ceremony, cake table, head table, or photo booth. Hanging centerpieces add a dramatic effect and allow for more room on the tables for low arrangements and candles.
Unique seating options are trending and adding some interest to parties and receptions. Mixing the style, size and arrangement of the tables by choosing round, square or farm-style seating creates a more eclectic look. The use of lounge furniture to form seating areas or creating more intimate spaces with draping is another good way to break up a room. Ceremony seating doesn’t need to be straight with a center aisle. Try a circular, semicircular, or chevron pattern, or consider a spiral arrangement where the ceremony is held in the center.
For the technology inclined, drones are becoming increasingly popular. If you’d like an overview of the outdoor portion of your event, then the use of a drone to film gives a great birds-eye view and unique perspective of the venue and the event.
Destination weddings and events are all the rage and very popular but they can also be very expensive, difficult to plan, and exclude guests that can’t travel, so couples are turning to hometown destination weddings and events. Find a venue that fits your theme or transform your venue to fit the destination you are visualizing. Create a Bali, Tuscany, or tropical feel through décor, food, flowers and entertainment. Try an Indian or a Mexican menu to make things fun and memorable. Scour antique stores or Asian markets to give the room an international flair or shop for some exotic decorations. Consider bringing in a hula or dance group to match your theme. Bringing in tropical flowers or leis can add just the right touch when creating an island feel and can make you and your guests feel like world travelers.
Creating a personalized wedding and event that has a wow factor through space arrangement, room decor, interesting food, or special touches will always create a memorable event for you and your guests.

Erica Thimsen, Helping Hand Parties & Weddings
www.helpinghandparties.com
256-698-4048

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