Event Design Trends for 2011
Everyone who is an event professional needs to stay on top of trends in weddings and event design. Why? Because whether you are an Entertainer, Planner, Florist, Rental Specialist, Caterer, Cake Designer, etc.., the more you know about current event trends, the more your customers will trust that they are going to have the best event possible since it is in your hands. This is the currency of our service.
So here it goes. I spend hours researching trends and talking to leaders in the industry and here is what I am seeing for 2011:
Color trends are one of my favorites. Here is what you will see this year!
Spring/Summer 2011 Colors: Honeysuckle, Coral Rose, Peapod, Beeswax, Silver Peony, Russet, Regatta, Blue Curacao, Lavender, and Silver Cloud.
Fall/Winter 2011/2012 Colors: Bamboo, Emberglow, Honeysuckle, Phlox, Cedar, Deep Teal, Coffee, Nougat, Orchid, Hush, and Quarry.
When it comes to fabrics, think TEXTURE! Be on the look-out for Dupioni fabric (it’s a polyester version of raw silk). Rosette fabrics are a must have for brides this year (look for Rosette fabric on clothing, purses, wedding dresses, decorative pillows, and tabletop design all over the place this year). BOLD Pucci style prints are hot! And the classic Embroidered Sheer fabrics are always a favorite among brides.
Every customer has their own ideas about design, but there are certain looks that tend to be consistent throughout the year.
Here are my picks on 2011 Design Trends:
Eco Chic – Many brides want to be ecologically friendly. They are using recycled papers for invitations, second-hand or vintage dresses, food from local farms, etc. Although some events are extravagant in their “eco” friendly theme, many want to create the look, without being excessive. Touches of burlap fabric (i.e. using a table runner) can do the job and look great paired with elegant fabrics.
Shabby Chic- SO FUN! Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures and prints. It can create a fabulous look.
Simple Chic – This look can be created by simply using color. Try ivory, tan or mocha colored linens mixed with turquoise blue Chiavari Chairs. Adding in some beautiful dish and glassware can really create an amazing look.
Color Chic - Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Here are a few colors that are fun to pair:
Teal & Papaya / Purple & Ice Blue / Gray & Yellow / Tangerine & Fuschia
How can you learn more about trends?
Visit the pantone website (www.pantone.com/spring2011), read trade publications (i.e. Special Events Magazine, Catersource Magazine, Event Solutions Magazine), watch HGTV (great design trends on Extreme Home Makeover), review the front cover of Fashion Magazines (for color trends), or visit the websites of the national bridal stores or www.theknotbiz.com.
Most of all use NACE. That’s what we’re here for.
A number of NACE members throughout the country have great blog sites about trends as well. Use NACE as a source for great information to stay on top of the industry trends.





