So often I speak with Brides who immediately say upon meeting for a Design Consultation "my colors are ______ and white" or "______ & silver". Now, if you have colors, themes, or ideas in mind by all means let us (your Designer or Planner) know. I have to admit when I hear these words, from a design perspective, what the Client is really saying is "I've chosen one color and a neutral". And there's nothing wrong with that. I usually then find myself helping them dig a little deeper to identify"Why?"
Most people don't think of Color as a science. Sure they recall the colors of the rainbow, the acronym "Roy G. Biv" from science class or the image of the Colorwheel but "Color Theory" is an actual artistic discipline based in both science and psychology. "But Janel", you say, "I really like Purple and Silver" or "Blue and White". And if that's what you want you will definitely have it but as we move forward with your Event or Floral Design I also want us to consider the psychology of design and look at the "Purple" as being presented well with the silver (a variation in the gray family) which is a neutral.
Sometimes Brides confess they chose the "Color" because it's one of their favorites and the neutral because they just want it to "Match". Ok, now being afraid of "mis-matching" or only trying to "match" colors with a neutral is one of the big mistakes I see. Carrying swatches around and trying to make sure every flower, linen, and accessory matches that color exactly can often result in a flat look and limited color spectrum (even if you use satin or shimmer materials). Remember, the slightest variation in color can make subtle yet alluring impact.
So, here's the trick to creating a rich, compelling color using "_______ and a neutral" or only one color with no neutral (a personal favorite). The key is not to worry about "Matching a Color", the key is to "Match Hues, Tints & Tones". I pull out my colorwheel and happily share with the eager Bride one of the simplest and most effective color harmonies... Monochromatic. Simply put, you select a signal color and then add white to make it lighter (this is known as tint) and/or add black to it to make the color darker (a darker shade or tone of the same color). It is the exact same color, just different versions of it. Be careful not to use a different or similar colors to your design (this is something different that I'll touch on another time) but the same color in different tints and tones along with a neutral. This will create a single color used with a range of depth, brightness and an unforgettable feel.
Questions about color theroy? Want to learn more about the science of color? More posts to come!
Silhouettes - In addition to the continuing popularity of the one-shoulder and asymmetrical neckline you'll be sure to see a return to carefully tailored yet retro and classic silhouettes like Mermaid, Empress and A-Line silhouettes. 
Fashion as Art - A new and very exciting fashion trend, which more unconventional Brides may be drawn to, is the Sculptural Gown. Yes, I know, it's not for everyone but on the right Bride this will be stunning.
"Mini" just for me - The "One bit", Amuse-Bouche, and Individual Serving-size item will continue to be popular in catering.
Food Magic - I've been on this trend for a while now and I know, this is not for your average Bride (or Caterer for that matter) but when technology, Food and Art come together I can't help but take notice. Molecular Gastronomy is a cutting edge food trend where advances in chemistry and gadgetry are used to prepare (and even change the property) foods to create unique dishes. Cleaver Chefs can be change something normally served in a liquid (like a soup) into a completely different form like a foam, sculpted into edible sheets or caviar-like beads that melt in your mouth. Another example would be taking salad dressing and transforming it into droplets encased in grape-sized edible shells. Way cool.
Head tables - For a number of years the Head table has been replaced by the more intimate Sweetheart table for wedding receptions. However, with reception designs creating a main focal point in specific areas of the room instead of elaborate tablescapes on all table (see "Center of Attention" below) it looks like the Head table is making a comeback.
Charming and Sentimental Touches - I love this trend. Well, I love any excuse to embellish. Expect to notice tons of little personal details like decorative pins, charms, lockets, framed pictures of loved ones, and other small personal statements. 
Ribbons (but beware the bow) - No, no, no big, poofy, round gift bows! Designs featuring the linear flow of multiple ribbons or sashes streaming across tables, the back of chairs or suspended from the ceiling and backdrops will gain popularity. Ultra chic, stylized, and sculpted Bows (not those shiny round, holiday wrapping-like bows) will be seen in dresses and use very sparingly in decor.
