Trendspotting: Maryland

Flower Power

The Idea: Swiss dots and buttercream are a cake classic that’s here to stay. But brides are now spicing up the tradition with beautiful fresh-picked blooms. Select flowers of the season (or just a few of your favorites) and embellish the top of each tier with a funky combination, such as these orchids, roses and berries.

Why We Love It: It's the perfect way to translate a little bit of you onto a classic—and typically plain—confection. For an extra creative twist, combine a few flowers you wouldn't normally credit for their matrimonial appeal, like poppies, coxcomb or birds-of-paradise. —Ashley Moore

Cool Cones

The Idea: The children won’t be the only ones clamoring for these tasty treats at the reception. These miniature ice-cream cones filled with multiflavored sorbets kept young ones, and those young at heart, happy and well-fed.

Why We Love It: It’s a tasty twist on passed hors d’oeuvres and a refreshing addition to your wedding cake and groom's cake.

Bright Bon Voyage

The Idea: While everyone loves the tried-and-true rose-petal toss, we say kudos to one couple who skipped the tradition in favor of sparklers—the cleanup crew no doubt loved their send-off choice. Bride-tested and editor-approved, these playful pyrotechnics can be purchased online at momentsofelegance.com for guests to wave during your departure.

Why We Love It: They're friendlier on the wallet than full-blown fireworks, plus they make great candid shots.

S-wheat Bouquet

The Idea: At her November wedding, Tracy Smith combined wheat with traditional bridal favorites—roses and hydrangeas—for a truly unique centerpiece. "Wheat means resurrection and fertility, which was symbolic for us as we started our new life together," says Tracy. And she’s not the only one jumping on the organic bandwagon: Brides everywhere are adding natural elements such as feathers, fruit and veggies to their floral decor.

Why We Love It: It has meaning. Her one-of-a-kind floral decor celebrated the couple’s love of fall and their hopes for a family one day. It also played up their elegant pink-and-brown color scheme perfectly. Make this idea your own by selecting an organic element native to your state, and pair it with your own favorites.