Our top ten wedding planning trends of 2016

6) Its whats inside that counts (Image: Archant)

1) Favour of the month

Sweet gifts to give to your guests as a celebration and souvenir from your day, wedding favours can say so many things – whether it's a memorable message, a commemoration of the day or simply a thank you. And whatever your theme for the day, you can find a favour to fit. These message in a bottle favours by Cushion Cottage are simply adorable. Each bottle contains a personalised message, decorated with a coordinated ribbon and comes complete in an organza bag. £1 each, minimum order 20. For more details, visit www.cushion-cottage.co.uk or www.facebook.com/cushioncottage

2) Light fantastic

2) Light fantastic (Image: Archant)

Designing a wedding theme can be exciting and for many, is a chance to create a look that's both magical and memorable. Lights – in all their forms – provide a soft, warm glow which is perfect for winter weddings and evening receptions. Fairy lights are ideal for marquees and converted barns as they can be used to brighten up plain walls. And if you're planning a garden party, tea lights in heart shaped holders or little jam jars are a simple and effective way of decorating your outside space. Combine with hanging beads or delicate origami decorations to complete the look.

3) A little succour

Table decorations don't have to be big and fancy – these little succulents from Pick-a-Lily in Norwich make sweet table decorations and are a great alternative to some of the larger bouquets. Dot them around for splashes of natural colour or hand out mini succulents as wedding favours. You can also have them wrapped in hessian or any fabric of your choice. Available from Pick-a-Lily, Norwich, £7.95 each or £2.50 for the mini variety. Visit www.pickalilyflowers.co.uk or call 01603 611511.

4) Under lock and key

Make sure your wedding is a date to remember by using beautiful ornate keys as simple decorations. Just tie a ribbon to the key with a little card for save the dates, thank yous or invites. A lovely keepsake, you can buy everything you need from websites like Etsy.

5) Shaken, not stirred

When you're planning a wedding, the great thing is you can follow your own rules, so don't be afraid to play around with tradition. Welcoming drinks don't just have to be confined to champagne or prosecco – why not celebrate in style with your favourite cocktail? Fruity numbers like Cosmopolitans or Bellinis are great for the summer or why not relax after the ceremony with something stylish like a Vodka Martini?

6) It's what's inside that counts

Cupcakes, five-tiered, iced, chocolate – wedding cakes come in all shapes and sizes and now there's a new wedding cake to add to the list. Relaxed and simply scrumptious, naked wedding cakes make a great addition to an afternoon tea styled wedding or garden party. Lightly dusted with icing sugar and adorned with roses, this beautiful cake was made by Sassa's Cakes, visit www.sassascakes.co.uk for more information.

7) 50 shades

Gone are the days of nightmarish bridesmaid frocks. Today styles range from short and sweet to long and elegant – in almost any colour too. This grey bridesmaid's dress is simple and graceful. Available from BHS, £95. Visit www.bhs.co.uk

8) A shining example

When it comes to choosing something you'll be wearing for the rest of your life, it has to be right. Luckily, there is a huge range of styles, fits, cuts, colours and metals available nowadays, so you really can have your dream wedding ring.

If you prefer your rings to have a little more edge, these Geti Titanium rings from Dipples in Norwich are ideal. Available in a range of styles and finishes including precious metal inlay or diamonds, prices (for rings pictured) range from £120 to £995.

Visit www.dipples.com or call the Norwich store on 01603 623051 or the Dereham store on 01362 692070.

9) Lollies

Because love is sweet and because they look irresistible; these bright and colourful lollies would make a great addition to any wedding. Made by Holly at Holly's Lollies, you can find these treats in almost any flavour including raspberry and white chocolate, elderflower, blueberry cheesecake as well as cocktail themed lollies too like strawberry daiquiri and piña colada. Visit www.hollyslollies.co.uk

10) Paper roses

For a delicate, vintage look, these paper origami roses are just the ticket. Made by Catherine Gray Origami, you can also choose from a range of wedding inspired decorations, sculptures, jewellery and gifts.

Or if you fancy doing something a bit different for your hen do, why not sign up for an origami workshop (minimum four people), where you'll learn to make origami wedding favours, place settings and decorations, £35pp.

Visit www.catherinegrayorigami.co.uk or email catherinegrayorigami@outlook.com

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