Preston Bailey, a renowned celebrity wedding planner and floral artist, advises couples to eschew wedding trends, which he believes can lead to uninspired, derivative events. "Wedding trends are evil," Bailey stated, emphasizing that following them can make couples "a little bit lazy, just following whatever is happening at the moment."
Bailey, who has orchestrated events for high-profile clients including Serena Williams, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Ivanka Trump, and was involved in the lavish $600 million wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, has observed how trends can lead to "matrimonial mutants." He aims to help couples become "trendsetters instead of followers," even those with more modest budgets.
Designing for Entertainment
Bailey's core philosophy for event planning is that "events are about entertainment." He suggests creating "pretty environments" where guests experience "wonderful surprises" every half hour, such as changes in lighting, food service, or performances. This approach can be adapted for any budget by focusing on how elements like music, lighting, and performances work together to set the tone. He advises starting with a gentler pace and building momentum throughout the evening, ensuring guests remain engaged.
Impactful Centerpieces
Bailey stresses the importance of centerpieces, especially for dinner receptions where guests spend significant time at their tables. "If you're having a dinner, and you're sitting guests at a table for a few hours, invest in what is on the table," he said. He reassures couples that impressive centerpieces do not require exorbitant spending. For example, orchids are a more affordable option that can last for months and create a beautiful focal point.
Rethinking the Altar
The altar area is another focal point where trends can become overwhelming. Bailey suggests simpler, cost-effective alternatives to elaborate architectural designs, such as using a large number of votive candles. "Everybody's looking at the altar," he noted, and "there are lots of ways of creating a beautiful visual that won't break the bank."
The Power of Restraint
In an era dominated by social media, Bailey observes that couples sometimes overdo it, leading to a lack of appreciation for individual elements. He advocates for a more curated approach, suggesting that "less is more" when it comes to floral arrangements. Instead of using an excessive quantity of flowers, he recommends focusing on seasonal blooms and arranging them with enough space to allow each one to stand out. "I think it's time to pull back a little bit," he advised.
Memorable Favors
Bailey suggests that edible favors are more appreciated than typical personalized gifts like etched wine glasses or playlists. He recommends offering sweets, such as cupcakes or cookies, beautifully wrapped for guests to take home. "Something edible is better than something that someone might regift," he concluded.