If there's one thing brides can be thankful for, it's that the rigid templates for wedding aesthetics are now put aside. There is a wider leeway for creativity, and brides can make their big day uniquely theirs by channeling a look that reflects their impeccable taste.

Quite like fashion, there are wedding trends which brides can get ideas from. This year promises a variety of possible inspirations, and Dylan Yap Gozum of Vatel Manila tells us about the themes and trends we'll see more of in 2011.

Vintage

Vintage-inspired weddings have become in vogue in the recent years, and the trend will continue on in 2011. However, Dylan says it's not really about going all out vintage. "It will be more of just touches--think patterns, fonts, and lace," he shares. Fascinators and cage veils, last year's trends, won't be as big. "Vintage bridal cars will remain popular," Dylan furthers. If you're leaning towards a wedding inspired by yesteryear, Dylan suggests going to Bangkal in Makati and Dapitan Arcade (near UST), where shops sell items like birdcages and trunks, which you can use as décor.

Shabby Chic

Lavish reception set-ups, while appealing, can sometimes lead guests to act stiff--and that's not exactly what you want for your party. Incorporating this year's trend, rustic or shabby chic set-ups, allows you to create a relaxed atmosphere for the reception. Dylan shares why this look is oh-so-pretty: "It's laid-back, soft, feminine, and elegant all at the same time!" To channel this look, Dylan suggests "Bring out the empty wine bottles, preserve jars and old books! Floral arrangements usually involve single stems of different flowers to achieve that garden look without actually creating a hedge on your guest table." He also points out that rustic décor not only are great conversation starters, but they're also budget-friendly!

Loose Bouquets

Reception décor are not the only wedding details that will channel a laidback vibe. Even flower bouquets will follow a more casual approach. "Traditional bridal bouquet arrangements will take the backseat this year. The new look is loose, romantic, and fresh. It's like having freshly picked flowers from the garden--[just tie the bunch] with a ribbon or jute twine," Dylan shares. Special embellishments will keep your bouquet from looking blah. "Brooches, lockets, and lace appliqué will continue to adorn handles," says Dylan.

Patterns

Damask details were all the rage last year, and patterns are still getting love in 2011. Dylan says "We're going to see the entry of two new favorites: paisley and toile de jouy." Paisley--which features an elaborate design of teardrop-like shapes--is an appropriate pattern for celebrating your new lives together. Dylan says that design experts consider paisley as a symbol of life and eternity. On the other hand, toile de jouy is often used in upholstery, and is characterized by a complex pattern (often depicting a scene) in a single color.

DIY Weddings

"More and more brides are getting into Do-It-Yourself projects to ensure that every item is in sync with their overall theme," shares Dylan. If you want to put a stamp on your wedding details and you're willing to exert some elbow grease, you can incorporate DIY projects into your event. Not only will these projects allow you to customize your wedding details, but they will also allow you to save on your budget. Remember, you don't have to do everything yourself--ask your fiancée or your entourage to help you out. Doing the projects together are great bonding activities!

Classic & Simple Details

If you want details that will never go out of style, you can always channel classic sensibilities. "Think pastels and whites and none of the usual overwhelming floral arrangements," Dylan says. Focus on clean lines and do away with over-the-top styling. Dylan suggests that adding some sparkly details--either to your ensemble or your décor--to keep your wedding from looking dull.

Morning Receptions

Pinoys have a penchant for late afternoon affairs, and it's high time that couples try something new. "Take advantage of our sunny weather [and] do set-ups that use both warm and soft colors. Instead of the usual evening receptions, try doing morning or luncheon receptions for a change," suggests Dylan. Your sunshiny affair will be a more cheerful celebration--and the abundance of natural light would also work well for your photos. Dylan says, "A lot of photographers would definitely be delighted to see more delicious sunlight!" He shares another advantage of having a morning affair: "A lot of event venues have daytime rates that are 20% less than their evening rates."

Going Green

Pulling all the stops for a perfect wedding doesn't have to mean turning your back on social responsibility. There are many ways by which you can reduce your wedding's carbon footprint--and you can even let your guests in on the effort. Dylan shares, "Giveaways will now be food (traditional home made goodies) and mostly organic personal-care items, or other products produced by NGOs, the advocacies of which are supported by the couples themselves. There's also a trend towards giving away plants." Décor can also double as souvenirs. "[Use] centerpieces that can be taken home by guests and replanted--like cacti, or eaten--like bread sticks [or] fruits," he suggests. Celebrating in al fresco spaces can save electricity and will bring you closer to nature, too.

While these ideas will be great springboards for planning your big day, Dylan stresses that it's important to make your wedding your own. "It's nice to observe other people's weddings and adapt an idea or two, but do not attempt to copy everything. Your wedding is yours, and not someone else's. It should reflect your personality and that of your partner's," he says.

Browse though our gallery below for inspiration on the mentioned themes.