By: Alison Sigman

Wedding trends usually take years to change and evolve. Well, leave it to the first year of the new decade to throw out all old standards for weddings for something all new. Trends this year not only go against the traditions instilled by us for decades but bring back some trends we thought were gone forever.

The biggest trend to cause a stir this year is the non-traditional wedding dress. Short, white dresses are gaining popularity, as is black accents on more traditional dresses, but it is the red wedding dress that is really turning things upside down. Bridesmaid’s dresses are getting an overhaul as well. Many brides are allowing their ladies to choose a dress that best flatters their own body type while keeping in the same color family. Big colors for 2010? Turquoise, orange, and fuchsia with black or metallic accents. Look for colors such as lavender, pink, green and blue to be quite “in” this spring as well.

Other touches and accents being seen this year are lace and beading. Lace is timeless, romantic, beautiful and versatile; beading – either in small touches or head-to-toe – is being seen in gowns this year.

Recent runway shows saw a number of asymmetrical necklines: Strapless gowns, once popular, is now seen as on the way out.

Weddings at home ala Father of the Bride, are making a comeback. Weddings are no longer about the drama of the accessories or venue, but instead are about the intimacy of the gathering. This is also why full plate dinners are being chosen over buffet lines as well. These dinners give your guests a chance to sit and enjoy themselves, while also cutting back on the amount of food to order. Butter cream frosting is making a comeback as well. Just like flashy venues, fondant cakes are becoming a thing of the past. Some couples go a step further and forego traditional cakes all together. Cheese cake, carrot cake, and even ice cream sundae bars are all things to look for in 2010.

Finally, the wedding favors are also becoming more of a personalize affair. Suppose the groom popped the question in New York City? Country apple candles are both useful to guests and give them a little inside on the magical affair. Give each couple a picture frame and have a photography “studio” set up at the reception. Camera printers are quick and inexpensive, and a way to personalize each guests experience at your special affair.