Ask the experts: wedding styling
 
Every great wedding has a theme. But what are the most popular wedding themes for 2016 and beyond? We asked Laura Earp of Avant Garden for her expert opinion.
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For several years almost every couple has wanted a shabby chic look – it’s been the most enduring wedding theme of all time!
 
But this year the trend is evolving and we can expect to see much more glitter and gold; 2016 brides will be really putting on the glitz.
 
So instead of hiring out bird cages, bunting and vintage jugs, brides and grooms are requesting candelabras, mercury glass and beautiful bronze bud vases.
 shottle hall marquee
The look is very vintage and it’s not really surprising that this trend is still around - there's just something romantic about adding old-world items and antiques to your big day. Many couples are opting to include family heirlooms within their décor, giving a sweetly personal touch to their wedding.
 
It’s a very 1920s look – think The Great Gatsby – with lots of opulence and indulgence. Props might include vintage suitcases, old fashioned cameras and feather boas a plenty.
 
Tables need to be littered with glitter and gold, or pearls and crystals. Vintage decanters, crystal candle holders, Art Deco toasting flutes are all absolutely perfect.
 
Anything ivory or gold works really well, as the colours provide a real sense of class and glamour, and while vintage is still en trend, it’s less shabby and a lot more chic.
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We’re being asked to supply an eclectic mixture, brides don’t want accessories that are too matching but there should be plenty of glitz, glamour, opulence and beauty. Tables look great with different wine glasses, pearls wrapped around bottle necks, silver plates – if it glitters it works.
 
When it comes to flowers we’re being asked for lots of soft clouds of gypsophila and blush roses – pretty pinks or deep rich colours like reds and purples.
 
The amnesia rose has become very popular over the last few years and works beautifully with the vintage glamour trend. It's unique muted colours of lavender, beige and green tone beautifully with many other flowers, but quite often, because of their purity, amnesia roses are used alone with just some simple foliage to accompany them.
What’s particularly nice about the amnesia rose is its reliability - the flower heads always fully open. With a medium petal count, long vase life and all year round availability, it's no wonder that these extraordinary roses are constantly in demand.
 mr and mrs
Succulents are also showing up everywhere in the world of weddings, they give a very modern and stylish look. The hardy plants are a refreshing alternative to flowers and come in a surprising variety of colours, ranging from shades of green and grey to soft pink and purple.
 
They are available all year round but are especially great for summer weddings since they can stand up to the heat and won't wilt. Best of all, they're eco-friendly and can be replanted at home after the wedding.
 
Avant Garden is one of our recommended wedding suppliers.

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