Wedding trends for 2010

CLEVELAND - Crystals are sparkling everywhere as a top trend this spring for the bride and groom's big day.

Wedding gowns are iced with crystals. At the Perfect Bride in Rocky River, Cathy Kuhn pointed out several newer looks, including textured head-to-toe lace, one-shoulder designs in champagne tints and even dresses with pockets. Wedding veils never go out of style, but birdcage short netting veils are a retro trend this year.

When it comes colors for the wedding party, shades of regal purple and Tiffany blue are popular this year.

For the reception, Chagrin Falls wedding planner Brandi Hamerstone suggested an elegant tree dripping with light-reflecting crystals and votives as an alternative to a floral centerpiece.

"Crystals allow for a lot more creativity in the linens, more creativity in the space," said Hamerstone.

And in table linens, bold prints like black and white damask look very new.

"It's being paired a lot with magenta. Girls love pink," said Hamerstone.

There are also more table linen choices than ever in gauzy fabrics with textured embroidery, sparkling sequins or beading.

Something old is new again in wedding cakes. Buttercream frosting is back, edging out fondant which guests often leave on the dessert plate.

Many brides are pairing a smaller wedding cake with a cupcake assortment.

"Everybody loves cupcakes because it gives you the ability to offer different flavors," said Hamerstone. And some couples are involving the men more by adding a groom's cake that says something special about him.

Instead of the standard guest sign-in at your wedding, consider a book of your engagement pictures. "You can place at sign-in table, guests can go thru pictures, see your pictures and also sign in the blank spaces in the book."

And a fine art book of your wedding day photos capturing the whole story from start to finish, giving you an incredibly natural looking, romantic narrative of your priceless wedding day memories.

For more weddings tips, click here and here .