Southern Planners' Wedding Trends for 2010

Photo from Green Wedding Shoes

Goin’ to the chapel this year? Deep South asked two of its favorite wedding planners what brides can expect to see in 2010. As Valerie Metrejean, owner of Southern Fete in Lafayette, La., preaches, though the South tends to be more traditional, there are lots of brides out there looking for something a little bit different. But different doesn’t always have to cost more, and the movement toward detailed, homemade weddings is building.

Alabama wedding planner Dana Goodman predicts that brides will get “back to basics” this year. This could mean downsizing your wedding and having an intimate gathering at home, making your own favors or letting bridesmaids choose their own dresses. “This trend is all about couples prioritizing what’s important to them and keeping their day intimate and meaningful. A day full of homespun charm and hospitality,” Goodman says. Read on for our full list of 10 trends and plenty of gorgeous photos to help you get the look.

Trend No. 1: Eco-friendly Weddings

Couples are keeping the environment in mind when planning their wedding. Being eco-friendly can mean using local vendors and products, an organic caterer or borrowing instead of buying.

Photo from Jasmine Star

Trend No. 2: Birdcage Veils

Your grandmother may have worn one, and now you can too. Add a vintage look to your ensemble with this stylish and hassle-free veil.

Photo by Ashleigh Jayne Photography

Trend No. 3: Homemade Favors With Meaning

Still a great way to thank guests for sharing your special day, favors are making a comeback. Homemade favors are certainly more personal and can also be less expensive. Choose a local product, like pralines, a bar of soap or  jar of honey, and put your own label on it.

Photo from Martha Stewart Weddings

Trend No. 4: Coordinating Bridesmaids Dresses

Choose a color, then let your bridesmaids find their own dress. It’s one less thing you have to do and will also make your bridesmaids much happier.

Photo from Grey Likes Weddings

Trend No. 5: Attention to Detail

Details really do matter when it comes to weddings. Guests will remember them, and so will you. Whether it’s a special favor, carefully planned menu, or incorporating a family tradition, details are a way to showcase your personality and make the day special.

Photos from Southern Weddings Magazine

Trend No. 6: Updated Photo Booths

Rent no more. Setting up your own photo booth allows for more creativity and is friendlier on the budget. Pick a fabric or site for the background and set up a Polaroid for an instant photo spot.

Photo by Jose Villa

Trend No. 7: Tulle For Brides

Ballgowns with plenty of tulle are back in. So go ahead and feel like a princess in that full skirt. (top pic coincides with this trend)

Trend No. 8: Weddings At Home

Southern gals don’t like to stray too far, and having ceremonies and receptions closer to home seems to be a way to further personalize the day and make it more intimate. These weddings can range from casual to formal and are sure to make the couple and their guests feel at-home.

Clockwise from top: Photo by Dave & Charlotte; photo from theknot.com; photo from Southern Weddings; photo from My Wedding Report.

Trend No. 9: Shorter Wedding Dresses

Playful brides can feel good about considering the shorter dress. Whether mid-calf or knee-length, this style promises comfort and style.

Photo by Stephanie Williams Photography

Trend No. 10: A Seamless Theme

In 2010, brides will be looking for more ways to personalize their wedding day. The easiest and least-expensive way to carry a theme is through your paper products. From invitations to favor tags, guests can see your personality in every aspect.

From left: Photo by Jason Cohen Photography; photo from theknot.com