This year, we’re seeing some new trends in wedding cake toppers, not to mention a twist on some timeless classics. No matter what your wedding theme might be, and no matter what cake topper you might choose, every bride and groom-to-be should remember one thing: make it personalized. After all, without personalization, your cake topper is just a generic item with little meaning. Whether it’s incorporating your wedding colors, using a monogram, or adding your likeness, personalized cake toppers are always “in”.

Credits (clockwise from top left): Cotton Bird Designs, Red Light Studio, Jaime Mancilla, American Bridal.

Monogramming is by far the most popular personalization option for weddings, and has been a long standing tradition that is still holding strong today. Debuting your initials for the first time as a married couple is not only a point of pride, but it can also be incorporated into many details in your reception: none more prominent than your cake topper. Monogram cake toppers are a classic yet modern alternative to the traditional bride and groom “figures”. Easily suited to any type of cake, or cupcake stand, letter initials are a chic and simple cake topper idea for any wedding. Here are just a few examples of fun, modern and personalized wedding cake toppers that suit any theme.

Looking to keep it simple? Try a unique new trend and add a tiny bunting banner to the top of your cake. Personalize it with your initials, last name, or stick to your wedding colors for a fun, sweet, vintage take on the traditional cake topper options. This is a great option for those already looking to use bunting flag banners as decor for their reception, which is another hot trend in weddings this year.

If you like the idea of a bride and groom cake topper, why not go for one with a modern twist? Bird cake toppers are very popular this year, adding a rustic and vintage touch to the traditional cake topper tradition. Personalize them with your wedding’s colors, and even have them made in your own likeness (including suit and tie and birdcage veil!) for a fun and sweet touch.

Despite the wide variety of traditions, beliefs, and preferences, wedding cake toppers are a detail every bride and groom-to-be can enjoy.

If you’re looking for Wedding venues in Leicestershire, you’ll be hard pressed to find a location better than that provided by The City Rooms. Welcoming wedding celebrations of all kinds: civil ceremonies and partnerships both intimate and grand, this venue is equipped with everything you need to have the wedding day of your dreams. Multiple suites, a bar, and ready to cater to Asian traditional receptions, this is a venue for every couple. With so many wedding venues offering their services, it’s all about what sets The City Rooms apart from the others. Personalized service, recommendations for florists, photographers, entertainment and more are just a few things you can expect from this luxurious venue. Whether your tastes are traditional and classic, or modern and contemporary, you’ll find all your expectations are exceeded.

Searching for inspiration? The City Rooms hosts frequent Wedding Fayres, which offer a glimpse at both their reception and ceremony suites, designer bridal collections, showcases from partners, wedding vendors and more. Find out first hand exactly what this venue can offer you, and gain inspiration for your wedding planning.

The best venue for your wedding will always be one with plenty of experience hosting these events. Whether it’s your ceremony, your reception, or both, trust the venue that specializes in weddings. Get all the help you need with planning every detail of your wedding, recommendations from professionals, and utilize the expertise of a venue with a rich history.

Credits: Cakes, Photography, Styling, Florist, Stationary; found via Bijoux Bride.

Top: Check out these vintage, pastel, elegant wedding cake stands by Clara Finch.
Bottom: This stunner was created by Kitchen Musings, and is a fine example of a modern wedding cupcake stand. Every detail, down to the filigree paper cupcake liners, is absolutely amazing.

Top: Simple cupcake stands with cut outs, or lace “doily” trim give a great vintage feel. Both by Martha Stewart Weddings.
Bottom Left: Cupcake stands can really make a statement, like these fancy, glass pedestal cupcake stands from Pottery Barn.
Bottom Right: They can also be practical and affordable, such as these made out of simple, recycled cardstock paper.

Left: You can still enjoy the cutting of the cake tradition with a small Bride & Groom only cake to top the cupcake stand.
Right: Cupcakes don’t have to replace your wedding cake, but instead be extra treats for your wedding guests at the reception. This girly, chandelier type stand is a fun addition to any candy bar (found via this site).

Biodegradable wedding poppers: one of the most well known, and most commonly practiced wedding traditions is showering the Newlyweds after the ceremony. The Bride and Groom will exit the ceremony and head off to the reception, but not without first being showered with rice or confetti. Many modern couples have chosen not to use rice, for various reasons, and have since replaced them with other options, the most popular being paper confetti. This is often shot out of a small “popper”, which leaves a mess that creates unnecessary waste, and harms the environment. However, now there are wedding poppers that have biodegradable confetti and streamers, offering all of the fun, without any of the negative impact. Give your guests these favors and keep your conscience guilt-free, with these “Green” wedding favors.

Blooming seed papers: these favors are a gift that keeps on giving, especially when it comes to giving back to the environment. Seed papers are composed of Eco Friendly fibers and flower seeds, which can be easily planted, and will result in beautiful blooming flowers. These papers come in a broad range of shapes, all available with instructions and a personalized message for your guests. Not only will they remember your wedding day, but they’ll also be easily reminded by the flowers these favors provide.

Flower seed favors: these personalized cards can include your names, wedding date, and a personalized message for your guests. The flower seeds include instructions on how to plant, and grow, this Eco and budget friendly wedding favor. Make your wedding truly “Green” with favors that not only protect the environment, but also give something back. There are plenty of generic wedding favors out there, but none more unique and worth while than the gift of nature.

If you’re looking for the perfect vintage wedding shoe, you have to check out Emmy custom made wedding shoes. Based out of London, Emmy offers custom, unique, vintage inspired bridal shoes that are to die for. Check out their website for even more beautiful shoes: Emmy Shoes.co.uk

Many modern brides today go against tradition and have not just one dress, but two for their wedding day. This sounds a little over the top, but the motivation is purely practical. Many dresses, especially formal ball gowns with full skirts, are appropriate for cathedral ceremonies, and popular with many brides. However, once it comes time for the reception, we find the size of the dress impractical for a night of dancing. For this reason, many brides have a cocktail style dress, often short in length, for the after-ceremony festivities. Although it doesn’t sound like a budget friendly idea, you do have an innovative and stylish option available to you: the two-in-one wedding dresses by David’s Bridal. This design is ground breaking for the wedding industry, not only are they a stunning collection of dresses, in this season’s hottest styles, but also transform from ceremony to reception. Go from formal, to casual and comfortable in just one zip. The full skirt comes off to reveal a sassy and practical cocktail dress perfect for dancing through the night. Maintain the style and beauty of your gown, with a manageable length for your reception. This dress has it all, and your transition will be seamless!

As for the trends of this coming Spring, keep an eye out for romantic lace. Now, this isn’t your grandmother’s lace, this is a sultry take on a classic design element. Whether it be a lace fitted bodice, or lace embellishments, you’ll see a lot of it this season. Pleating and draped gowns are also growing ever popular, many fitted at the natural waistline with a bold sash. All of these styles and more make for a promising Spring wedding season!

Many wedding guests choose to draw from their current wardrobe to find their outfit, while others may purchase a dress specifically for the occasion. There are many places to find appropriate dresses to wear to a wedding, no matter what the overall style of the ceremony and reception may be. You can shop at your favorite stores and still find the best look for the big day, without worrying about any restrictions. If you plan on purchasing a new ensemble, a good idea would be to make sure it’s something you could wear for other occasions. You can even pair it with a shoe you already own, and cut down on excessive expenses.

Wedding attire is predominately easier for those apart of the wedding party. For example, the mother of the bride or ring bearer might have a specific outfit designed for them, to match the palette of the ceremony. As a guest, you’ll only be expected to avoid the most obvious faux pas, and generally choose an outfit that suits the occasion. Bright colors, casual shoes, and fun accessories are all widely present in a modern wedding. The best advice for wedding guests would be to make sure you know what the bridesmaids, and wedding party, will be wearing and try to steer clear of choosing an outfit that looks too similar. Finding a selection to choose from won’t be hard, as many online shops such as Very.co.uk offer a broad range of attire to choose from. Getting the right outfit that suits the occasion, and your own personal style is easy when you utilize your online resources.

Credits: Photography.

Gallery of Hilary’s wedding, as a feature in OK magazine, found via Dog N’ Bird!

Credit: Image, Courtesy.