Top 12 Wedding Trends for 2008

Every year, The Wedding Report, a resesarch company that tracks and forecasts wedding industry statistics, publishes a list of the year's top wedding trends. Unlike most of these trends lists, however, The Wedding Report turns to two sources for its results and then compares them. The consumer report looks at what brides are talking about and searching for, while the industry report look at what the wedding industry is pushing as trends.

As their report indicates, the two aren't always the same, which begs the question: When it comes to "trends," what's more important - what the media/industry/news declares as trendy - or what the public/consumer/bride actually embraces?

Either way - here is what The Wedding Report found as the top wedding trends for 2008:

1) Designers are pushing wedding dresses with alternative styles and necklines, but brides still favor the strapless gown.

2) The biggest trend for bridesmaids' attire is the wear-again dress.

3) Couples still prefer traditional white wedding cakes, but custom-designed cakes are becoming popular.

4) Consistently designed invitations, save-the-date cards, programs, escort/place cards, menus, and thank-you cards are becoming trendy.

5) Cinematic videography is a new and exciting alternative to standard photography and video services.

6) Online photo showcasing, which allows couples, their family and friends to view, share and purchase wedding photographs is a rising trend.

7) Despite the sluggish economy, extravagant weddings that include big gowns, multiple wardrobe changes, towering lush floral centerpieces, gilded place settings, seven course meals, and elaborate desert displays are still expected in 2008.

8) 1980's fashion styles are popular, including textured dresses, bright colors, wide belts or sashes, big jewelry, and cover bands.

9) White gold and platinum wedding rings continue to outpace yellow gold.

10) Currently in style are antique wedding rings for men and women, as well as exaggerated, big, bold jewelry.

11) Destination weddings are growing in popularity due to all-inclusive packages offered by resorts and easy planning through their websites.

12) High-end kitchen gear and practical cooking items are currently popular wedding gifts.