In a recent release from My Wedding Workbook, a wedding software company, the hottest wedding trends of 2009 were outlined. And let me tell you, they are so interesting! According to a survey conducted by the company, brides are turning away from traditional wedding musts and instead, making their big days even more creative by choosing darker hues for color schemes, less formal occasion, and by using a ton of cost-saving approaches to having a beautiful wedding. Let’s start out with some of the color findings.

This past year, brides looked to darker colors like navy, brown, and deep reds to anchor the look of the wedding, though don’t think there wasn’t any punch of color to spice things up. Many brides complemented their darker hue choices with shots of orange, yellow, peach and pink so that their wedding days could be even more exciting. Plus, there was – as always – a lot of classic black used in wedding plans.

As for the fashions, more brides chose cocktail dresses and suits, rather than gowns and tuxedos. Same thing goes for guests. With more receptions being listed as “casual”, female guests felt free to break out their favorite sheath or sundress while guys sported coats and khakis.

Finally, a huge change was in the way that couples spent money. Instead of skimping on the guest list, couples chose to instead cut back on the honeymoon, the size of the bridal party, or the flowers while working on a ton of DIY decorations. Couples also saved by having more intimate gatherings in their own backyards, complete with adorable DIY wedding favors that complemented the wedding theme.

Want to know more about the hottest trends of 2009? Be sure to check out My Wedding Workbook – a free Online Wedding Planner for brides and grooms that helps them manage every little detail with ease!