Chances are you’ve thought about your wedding day long before you met Mr. Right.  So now that you’re in the real planning stage of your nuptials, you probably have several wedding details in mind that you can’t live without. But for those finer points that eluded you until now, why not turn to other countries for new ideas?  The United States, in particular, boasts a new crop of eclectic wedding trends every year, most of which are a direct result of its diverse population, as well as its political and economic leanings at the time. 

Given that the U.S. has just entered a new season of common sense, hope and change, it’s interesting to note that these ideals have filtered down to the most regional of levels, including what an American wedding will look like in 2009.  Many of these trends are downright practical (given the downturn in the U.S. economy, they are a necessity for some) and yet some things will never change (white wedding dresses are still in style).  So in the spirit of being open to new ideas, let’s take a look at the top 10 wedding trends American brides are considering this year.

1. Using a social network (like Facebook, MySpace, or Plaxo) to announce your engagement to the world.  Even though your grandmother wouldn’t approve, the Yanks up north are saving postage and trees by using the Internet to get the word out (this includes wedding invitations, as well).  It may seem impersonal, but it sure is practical. 

2. Pre-shopping for wedding gifts on the Internet.  American brides boldly offer their guests a list of discount-shopping websites (like Overstock.com and E-bay) as places their guests can go to buy wedding gifts.  This is particularly helpful if the registry includes expensive gifts that would be hard for most people to buy at full price.

3. Creating your own personalised wedding website. There’s nothing wrong with keeping everyone well informed.  A wedding website includes things like your gift registry, the best place to buy your gifts, your engagement announcement, your engagement picture, your wedding announcement, the guest list, and pictures of pre-wedding events (like your engagement party, wedding shower, shopping for bridesmaid dresses, etc.).  After the wedding, it can include pictures from the wedding and your honeymoon.

4. Opting for do-it-yourself details.  Many American brides are making their own party favours, bridesmaid gifts, and flower arrangements.  This not only saves money, but also adds a personal touch.

5. Putting on a retro face.  The bride’s make-up turns to the dramatic faces of the 1950’s and 1960’s for inspiration.  Lots of contrast (dark eyes, pale skin, think Elizabeth Taylor and the cat-eye eyeliner of the London models in the swinging ‘60s) and updos.

6. Wearing unconventional wedding dresses that are fitted on top, but flowing on the bottom (as in mermaid and trumpet skirts).  Also short skirts are in this year in the U.S., but with elegant flowy fabrics such chiffon, tulle, and organza. 

7. Choosing small, intimate ceremonies.  Gone are the days of the opulent royal-type weddings with a cast of hundreds.  American weddings are being pared down to include just family and close friends.  Co-workers, childhood neighbors, and friends of the parents are being cut from the list.

8. Going green makes the scene.  The environment is heavy on the American consciousness, so U.S. brides are planning weddings that leave small carbon footprints; using only recyclable products at parties, having the ceremony and reception in the same location, and arranging for carpools to wedding events.

9. Playing games at the reception.  Setting up gaming stations at the reception that include Wii Sports, Guitar Hero, or Rock Band is a fun alternative to just dancing and chatting.

10. Honeymooning in your own backyard.  Not literally, but given the current high cost of travel, American couples are choosing to honeymoon closer to home.  No matter where you live, there’s undoubtedly a romantic beach nearby that’s cheaper to get to than the French Riviera.