Today's bridal couples want to be different but trendy too

 A dream wedding is something different for everyone although there is one thing that remains consistent, and that is the bride's desire to be trendy.

"(That being said) one of the biggest trends going away is the DIY wedding," said Samantha Roberts, editor of WeddingChannel.com, a popular online wedding and gift registry, and sister site of TheKnot.com. “Brides are moving toward a more sophisticated wedding, still very personal, but Cosmo rather than Martha Stewart.”

Speaking of sophisticated -- who could forget last year's nuptials between Britain's Prince William and wife Kate? The royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's was viewed by millions, many of whom paid particular attention to her gown.

"Kate Middleton's dress had sleeves," Roberts said. "So a lot of designers were putting sleeves on gowns after that." 

Another wedding that changed the course for many a bride and bridal designer was Reese Witherspoon.

"(She) wore a blush-colored dress for her wedding," Roberts said. Thus, prompting brides to consider shades outside the traditional choices of white or ivory.

For brides with children all, all eyes are on celebrity mom Angelina Jolie. Ever since she and Brad Pitt announced their engagement in April rumors have been swirling with regards to how their six children (three of whom are adopted) will be involved in the wedding (or if there will be a wedding).

"They're doing it for their kids," Roberts said, of the couple's decision to finally tie the knot. This will be Jolie's third marriage and Brad Pitt's second marriage. Jolie was previously married to British actor Jonny Lee Miller and American actor Billy Bob Thornton while Pitt was previously married to "Friends" actress Jennifer Aniston (who ironically is also engaged to be married this year).

"The couple has already exchanged watches," Roberts said, adding that watches are a very traditional gift for weddings. This would lead one to think the wedding is in the works. 

"We think they're going to get married on their estate in the south of France," Roberts mused. The biggest clue to that being the fact that they had a chapel built on the estate. As for the bride's dress Roberts said Jolie loves Versace, Armani. Roberts also sees the possibility of a wedding dress by Monique Lhuillier. Whatever name she chooses it is likely to be something silky, sexy and maybe slit. "The slit dress is easy to move around in, which is important to someone who has six kids," Roberts said. "And her jewelry, I think she's going to keep simple. Maybe earrings or a necklace, she has a beautiful engagement ring so she doesn't need to add a lot to that."

If she wears a halter neckline Roberts said she might choose to wear her hair pulled back. "Hopefully, Brad cuts his hair and shaves his beard," Roberts said of the groom, adding that she's guessing he will go for the formal and clean-shaved look since his parents are likely to be there along with some very close friends (George Clooney, for sure). There are several reasons for the trend toward a smaller, more intimate wedding, which is what Roberts sees in the works for Brangelina and predicted for Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake, who took their vows during an intimate ceremony in southern Italy, attended by family and close friends. A smaller celebration ensures more privacy and less paparazzi and expenses. This trend makes the destination wedding, even more appealing. Always fashionable but also creative, Timberlake is said to have helped in the design of his custom Tom Ford tuxedo. Ford’s tuxedo are the rage, especially since James Bond (Daniel Craig) has been seen wearing them on the red carpet and big screen.  

This trend makes the destination wedding, even more appealing.

Of the celebrities likely to wed away from home is Jennifer Anniston and Justin Theroux. "I think a destination wedding would fit her personally, maybe Cabo San Lucas," Roberts said. "I am thinking something on a secluded beach. She's a big fan of Mexican food so we could see her incorporating that and for a dress? Versace, Dior, maybe Dolce & Gabbana."

No matter what designer she chooses it will definitely be form-fitting, flowing and sexy. "She has one of the best bodies in Hollywood," Roberts said.

Again, these are only predictions for other people.

"It's important to make the wedding personal," Roberts said. Be happy with what you want rather than trying to please parents, guests, or anyone else.

Katerina Bocci 
to appear 
in Northville

Katerina Bocci was among the fashion elite chosen to launch her luxury bridal gown collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week. Now, Michigan brides will have the opportunity to see the collection. 

When: Saturday, Nov. 1

Where: Elizabeth Bridal, 402 S. Main Street, Northville, MI 48167.

What: Brides-to-be will have full access to the entire Couture Bridal Collection.

This is the fifth collection for Michigan’s couture bridal designer, who aims to encompass each brides’ unique sense of style, featuring opulent finishes such as impeccable hand beading, silk roses and glamorous belts made with Swarovski trim and stones. Using only the finest fabrics, including 100-percent silk shantung, silk organza, silk taffeta, Duchess silk and tulle in an array of whites, ivories, creams, and on-trend color, Chai, Bocci created a range of designs suitable for the most formal affairs; chic, city weddings; and dresses perfect for destination and outdoor ceremonies.

For more information about the trunk show visit Elizabeth Bridal
Katerina Bocci Design Studio is open from Tuesday-Sunday at 14232 Rick Drive in Shelby Township. Visit the studio or click on Katerina Bocci