Lauren's Overview of 2013 and looking forward to 2014!

2013 was a big year when it came to saying ‘I do’ in the celebrity world. From Texan songstress Kelly Clarkson to English rose Keira Knightley, it was twelve months of seriously lavish nuptials.
Alice Temperley had a huge bridal moment in the past year with the afore mentioned Miss Clarkson and Made in Chelsea’s Millie Mackinson (now Manderson) both choosing to wear her creations on their wedding day. Lacy and delicate, both dresses took a more bohemian route, eschewing the full, princess style skirt in favour of something a little more understated but equally beautiful.

In terms of trends, the popularity of mint green looks set to continue into 2014, as well as less traditional wedding dress colours. Kaley Cuoco, star of the Big Bang Theory, chose to don a sugary pink Vera Wang strapless gown for her special day, reminiscent of Jessica Biel’s dress when she married Justin Timberlake in 2012, a frothy Giambattista Valli number. Pink is the perfect way to express a quirky yet feminine twist on the traditional dress, and injects a dose of fresh Spring/Summer colours into your wedding day attire. Plus it co-ordinates beautifully with colours like mint and coral, which are predicted to be very popular in this upcoming wedding season.
And it’s not just celebrities that brides are looking to for inspiration, the recent big screen adaptation of glamourous and tragic The Great Gatsby has brought the twenties roaring back into fashion. From white gloved waiters to glittering crystal and delicately patterned china, it’s influencing everything from your dish ware to your bridesmaids gowns. And don’t forget the bubbly!
Additionally, intricate details such as laser cut patterns, as an elegant alternative to lace and contrasting metallics against traditional white for a luxurious finish are going to be big in 2014, with patterns like chevron continuing their swell in popularity.

The flower of the year is apparently the year, and it’s easy to understand why. Pretty and soft looking, peonies just scream wedding from all of their romantic looking petals. Plus they’re in season from mid May until the end of June, making them perfect for a summer ceremony.

But it’s not just about the dress or the colours or even the flowers. Let’s talk cake. It should express your personality as a couple and include elements that make it special. Whether that’s covering it in popcorn because you had your first kiss in a cinema or having your cake toppers engaging in a paintball war because it’s your favourite hobby, the more interesting and individual to you, the better. And when it comes to flavours, 2014 is the year to explore something unusual. Try something quirky like coconut and lime or something zesty, light and delicious summery like lemon.
And with A-list celebrities like Katy Perry and Kim Kardashian both becoming engaged in 2013, next year will be filled with even more inspiration for your mood board.

Guest post By Lauren Cowley.