Wedding Trends of 2011

Honeysuckle was named the wedding color of 2011.

With the holidays over and 2010 now a memory, brides-to-be are looking ahead to what’s hot and new for 2011 wedding trends. From the ceremony to reception to décor and entertainment, there are many ways to personalize these trends to fit your wedding.

Murrieta's Well is just one of many beautiful outdoor venues in Tri-Valley.

Outdoor ceremony and reception venues are a big trend of the new year. Tri-Valley is home to a number of beautiful winery venues with views of the sprawling vineyards and rolling hills. Just a few examples include Murrieta’s Well, Garre Winery, Concannon Vineyard and Wente Vineyards.

Selecting wedding colors is often a first step in deciding a decorative theme. Honeysuckle has been named the wedding color of 2011. The vibrant hue is eye-catching and is a great choice for couples looking to make a bold statement with décor elements.

The popularity of food trucks has even hit the wedding day! This is a perfect option for the cocktail hour.

Catering and food options are evolving in 2011, as well. Trends in wedding dining mirror everyday culinary trends. Think small bites and food trucks! Tapas-style and buffets are hot this year, allowing for a more casual and informal affair. If you’re planning a very relaxed event, consider a trendy food truck.

Vintage elements like passed down family jewelry, photo booths, favors from classic brands and relaxed poses for photography create a romantic nostalgic vibe will give your wedding a timeless style.

Whatever your theme, colors or creative elements, the most important thing is to make it unique and make it your own. All the 2011 trends can be adapted to fit your style and budget. If you’re ready to get started, be sure to look into our complimentary planning assistance.

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Wedding Cake Challenge

This opulent five-tier cake is a graphic interpretation of damask; it plays up the pattern, which is traditionally tone-on-tone.

It seems like every television network has a cooking show right now and being a foodie is hotter than ever! An observant bride can even use these shows to help to find wedding inspiration.

A recent episode of  “Top Chef: Just Desserts”  put the contestants to the test with a wedding cake challenge. Renowned cake designer Sylvia Weinstock , who has been making celebratory cakes for more than 30 years, served as a guest judge for the competition.

The cake guru, who has created more than 500 cakes in her career, shares her expert advice to consider when selecting your own wedding cake:

• Visit reputable bakers and sample their cakes.
• If your special day falls in the winter or is a dinner celebration, a richer cake may be more satisfying. Try chocolate or hazelnut.
• If your wedding is a daytime event in warmer weather, serve a lighter cake, such as lemon-curd cream with fresh raspberries.
• Variety is the key. The wedding couple can opt to make each layer a different flavor. This will benefit your guests who are picky eaters.
  

  Cupcakes are a fun, whimsical choice for wedding desserts that can be creatively displayed.

The cake is a key tradition in weddings, but that doesn’t mean it has to be conventional. Several emerging trends provide a unique, updated spin on the classic.

• Cupcakes are a great, fun option that can be creatively displayed. Cupcakes can be less expensive than a traditional cake and are easier to select a variety of flavors.
• Cake pops are light, bite-size treats inspired by lollipops that will make a modern wedding fun and memorable. Fun flavors and decorative elements make these treats special.
• Make it memorable by nixing the cake and serving your favorite dessert . Think cheesecake, pies, truffles, meringues, tarts or profiteroles.
  

  Cake pops are inspired by a nostalgic favorite, the lollipop. But these treats and the fun embellishments are all modern.

Whatever option you choose, picking the perfect bakery or pastry chef to create your wedding day dessert is important. We have several great options right here in the Tri-Valley . Bibiane Bakery , Noland’s Cakes, and Primrose Bakery all specialize in delectable and creative wedding cakes and desserts.

If you’re planning a wedding and would like complimentary assistance finding the perfect venue and vendors, contact the Tri-Valley CVB at 925.846.8910 or sales@trivalleycvb.com.

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