Top 5 Multi-Cultural Wedding Trends for 2012

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As part of my guest post on Wedding Happy, a hot new (and free) wedding planning app, I was asked to share my thoughts on upcoming trends for 2012.  Everyone these days seems to want to bring a little pride & heritage to their style, and let’s face it, Multi-Cultural weddings are the new black dress: Hot, dynamic and never goes out of style.  In today’s global world where cross-cultural lifestyles are quite normal, it’s no surprise that more and more marrying couples are searching for fun and exciting new ways to bring their unique heritage into their wedding day.  There will certainly be no shortage of ideas to emulate, and for interfaith, intercultural and/or interracial couples the inspiration ideas are endless.  Here are my top five multi-cultural wedding trends to look out for in 2012:

Trend #5 – Global-Infused Details

From seating charts and paper favors and everything in between, multi-cultural couples can unleash their crafty and calligraphic side to the tune of many languages and geographic influences.  These papermade Korean Hanbok favors, for example, were added personal touches to an international guestlist, as evident in the table seating titles that ranged from London to Johannesburg.

Trend #4 – Stylish Elopements

With the global economy getting tested in all markets, marrying couples are feeling the pinch (and pressure) even more.  For multi-cultural couples, who often times have to negotiate the boundaries between lavish customs and budget-friendly events, the idea to elope can serve as a solution as well as an opportunity.  From this New York elopement, a style-savvy Polish bride and her Jamaican groom decided to stay true to each other, proving that eloping doesn’t have to be taboo…it can be super stylish too.

Trend #3 – Mixed Match Fashion

The adoption of mixed matched fashion is a fun solution for many distinct styles such as Sarees, Cheongsams, Mishananas, Kimonos, Lehengas, Ao dais, or Khmers. Also the art of mixing things up this way, gives each bridesmaid an opportunity to be confident at a colorful event.

Trend #2 – Alternative Invitation Styles

Sealed envelopes?  Been there!  Cookie-cut stationery?  Done that!  However, these custom made wooden invitations, are just one of the many ways for multi-cultural couples to add a touch of eco-friendly chic, elegance and charm to what should be: A uniquely inspired wedding day.  Consider it this way: There are no two couples like you, why should your invitations (or anything for that matter) be any different?

Trend #1 – Non-veiled Headpieces

Finally, the trend I’m most excited about is the “Non-veil”.  For many brides marrying into another culture, they will have to decide at some point whether to wear multiple gowns to represent each culture or just one.  Regardless of their decision, custom made headpieces offer modern brides a solution to ripped netting and stepped-on-trains.  I call this trend “The Non-Veil: A fresh approach to being creative and headstrong”pun intended!

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