With the beginning of the year kicking off the biggest wedding planning season, it is only fitting to let you in on the latest trends for 2011.  According to One Wed and TheKnot.com, we’re in for more elegance, nostalgia and romance, an easy complement to our unique wedding favors.  Check out these pairing as this year brings…

1. The Return of Sophisticated Elegance

No more Converses and crazy cakes.  It’s back to basics with simple elegance in 2011. Wedding decor will be classy and understated, with brides choosing modern designs over DIY accents. Scripted calligraphy, custom monograms, brides in pearls and classic wedding cakes embody this trend. One Wed

 2. Grey is the New Black, Digging Deep Blue

We’ve moved from black to brown and now grey.  Yes, grey will be the neutral IT color for 2011 weddings. Not gloomy anymore, shades of charcoal, dove, stone, oyster and shell will be incorporated into wedding color palettes.  Paired with vibrant hues, it will really pop! In addition to groovy grey, navy (and other deep blues) will be popular for the coming year…thanks to Prince William and Kate’s royal wedding. One Wed

3. After Parties

It’s a day no one wants to end.  And with the latest trend of wedding reception after parties, it doesn’t have to—well, at least not as quickly.  Planning a post-reception after party lasting into the wee hours of the night with drinks, entertainment, dancing, and snacks is a fun way wedding guests can keep the celebration going all night long!  While you’re at it, why not send guests home with a trendy cocktail favor? One Wed

4. The Redefined Princess

With a royal wedding around the corner, you can bet Kate Middleton’s going to alter what princess style is all about. Put away the ball-gown skirt because the new princess silhouette will be body-skimming but with a bold train. Add statement-making headwear like tasteful tiaras (seriously!) and cathedral-length veils. And you can count on sophisticated sequins and beading showing up on everything from the wedding dress to the floral arrangements and the wedding cake. TheKnot.com

5. Sultry Ballerina Style

From feathered headpieces and shredded fabrics to airy plumes and pale pinks paired with black, the look of the season is all about Black Swan, right down to an ambience where everything happens after 8 p.m. One idea we love? Romantic ceremonies by candlelight.   TheKnot.com

These Kate Aspen favours and more available now at www.hootinvitations.com.au