If you're getting married in 2007 or 2008, here are the trends that are expected to impact the bridal industry over the next 12-24 months:

Top Trends for 2007

1. Glamorous Weddings
   Glamour is definitely the buzz word of the year. Couples are opting for lavish and sophisticated affairs.
   
   
2. Wedding Gowns
   Floor-length styles are still popular for 2007. Brides are paying extra attention to the back of the gown by adding more embellishment in that area. During the ceremony, the bride’s back is facing guests, so this makes sense. Look for gowns to have intricate beadwork, special embroidery, monograms, and lace in the back. Lace will also be featured in sleeves and shrugs. Strapless gowns will still be popular, however. The top designers in Europe are showing lots of color in their wedding gowns. This trend may take a while to catch on in North America.
   
   
3. Embellishment Continued
   Brides are carrying embellishment into other areas of the wedding. You’ll see embroidered or lace table runners, beads and jewels in floral arrangements. Lace will replace ribbon in invitations and programs.
   
   
4. Jewel Tones
   Chocolate brown paired with pale pink or blue was popular in 2006. In 2007, couples are choosing vibrant jewel tone wedding colors (rich red, green, orange, purple, gold.)
   
   

5. Square Tables
   Large square-shaped tables are popular because they add a modern touch to the reception. Square tables not only seat 12 comfortably, but allow for more decorating options such as table runners and rows of pillar candles.
   
   
6. Cocktail hour entertainment
   Cocktail hours are not simply for guests to wait while the wedding party is being photographed. Modern couples are creating a club atmosphere in the cocktail hour by hiring musicians and other entertainers.
   
   

7. Wedding ceremonies in unusual venues
   Couples are seeking unusual wedding locations for a more memorable impression without the travel and expense of a destination wedding. Castles, zoos, museums, gardens, and aquariums are among chosen venues.
   
   
8. Photo-journalism-style wedding photography
   Couples are moving away from formal, posed shots. Black and white, candid, unposed photography is being requested more often. Of course, color photography is still popular for capturing wedding colors.
   
   
9. Wedding cakes
   Traditional flower adornments as cake toppers - fresh and made from sugar - are giving way to more sleek and personalized alternatives. Many couples are using their initials (made from silver, tin or jewels) as a topper.

1. Bridal registries
   Bridal registries will evolve, where engaged couples use their registries to establish honeymoon funds or contribute to their favorite charities.
   
   
2. Green weddings
   Couples will opt for environmentally responsible products and practices for their weddings and receptions. Recycled paper will be used for invitations and other stationery. You'll see more wedding receptions that feature organic, local food. Couples will streamline guest lists to limit the use of non-green materials.
   
   
3. Destination weddings
   Although this is already popular in tropical or exotic locales, this trend will increase substantially in Europe, where recent celebrity marriages (Parker/Longoria & Cruise/Holmes) have created a frenzy.
   
   
4. Traditional wedding cakes disappear
   Modern couples are opting for unique and personalized alternatives to the tiered, frosted wedding cake. Cupcakes, cookies, and ice cream cakes will be seen at many 2008 weddings.