As the 2015 event season comes to an end, we start to take stock of the trends that we cannot wait to see (ahem) “stay in 2015.” But, what about the trends we resolve to continue in 2016? Here are five event planning trends I believe we should resolve to continue in 2016.
1. Show Love to the “Fifth Wall.” In 2015, chandeliers weren’t the only design elements we saw when we looked up! We saw escort cards, champagne flutes, floral treatments and wedding cakes suspended from the ceiling too. This was such a fun design element for galas, weddings and special events! I cannot wait to see what our industry hangs from the ceiling in 2016!
2. Various Metallic Finishes. One of 2015’s coolest trends was the use of metallic finishes other than silver. We saw rose gold, brass, copper and pewter grace our tablescapes, invitations, menu cards, attire and centerpieces. In 2016, we expect to see these finishes on canopies, structures, chandeliers and cake stands.
3. Mixed Table Shapes. I “bow down” to the event designer who started the revolution of mixing table shapes. I am not just talking about a room full of banquet rounds with a king’s table placed in the center. I think we can do better than that! I hope 2016 is filled with king’s tables, banquet rounds, squares, rectangles, X’s, and O’s. Stretch your imagination and blow everyone’s mind! But, be sure to have guides (people and/or paper) available to show your guests to their seats for dinner.
4. Bright Colors. I know, I know — Pantone said that our 2016 “co-colors” are (ack!) rose quartz and serenity. And, I am sure that muted colors will be just as popular in 2016 as they were in 2015 (and 2014), but many of us are also falling in love with color combinations that feature bright oranges, yellows, pinks, greens and purples.
5. Community Over Competition. I love, love Natalie Franke and Krista Jones for creating the movement among wedding professionals known as The Rising Tide Society. There are similar communities available on-line such as the Savvy Business Owners, the Planners Suite and the MunaLuchi Coterie. I am a member of all of these groups and within them, I have been inspired, I’ve learned and I’ve shared my knowledge without fear of judgement. Groups like this can only make our industry stronger, and I can only pray that this movement spreads to all segments of the event community in 2016! Imagine how big we will become if we work together!?!
So, what about you? What event planning ideas and trends do you want to see continued in 2016?
Love and Soul Always, Kay
