2016 Event Trends: What will the future hold?
The 2016 Event Planning Season is upon us here at the Ice House and Crushed Ice Catering. With every passing year, we reflect on the trends of that year’s previous events and weddings and look forward to what the New Year will bring. We don’t claim to be psychic, but we typically have a knack for predicting trends for the New Year. Here are the Team’s predictions for 2016:
Erica’s Predictions
The Big Bucks are Back
Luxury. Spending is on the rise again for Weddings and Corporate Events. Clients are willing to spend more money now, than in the previous years. What does this mean? For Weddings, it means more Champagne, longer parties and extravagant amenities. For corporate, it means entertainment, entertainment, entertainment – bands, lighting, audio/visual. Corporate Clients are looking to deliver that “wow” factor that is bright, bigger and louder than ever.


Lindsay’s Predictions
Say Goodbye to the Southern Theme
The Southern Theme is taking a backseat to the Earthy/Woodland/Bohemian trend. Expect to see more earth tones and elements such as wood, stone, garland, lanterns – the list could go on and on. Need inspiration for this concept? Look no further – our Friends over at Ruffled Blog (ruffledblog.com) seem to nail this trend on their Blog and their Instagram page.

Derek’s Predictions
Classic Cocktails are the Crowd Pleasers
Gone are the days of the Grape-Apple-Cherry-Flirtini-Martini-Whatevertini. The Classic Cocktails are back. You’ll see the bartender’s serving up more of the originals such as a good Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Moscow Mule – just to name a few. These tried and true cocktails eliminate long lines at the bar – consisting of few ingredients.

Lauren’s Predictions
Don’t let the Sun Go Down on Me
Daytime Weddings are increasing in popularity now more than ever. Couples could be utilizing this option as a budget-saving tactic – or it could be that daytime wedding food and drinks are just more fun. There is so much more variety you can offer your guests in the cuisine department (breakfast, lunch, brunch, light appetizers or hor d’oeurves) as well as beverage services. Daytime Weddings give you the perfect opportunity to showcase that pinterest-inspired Champagne, Bloody Mary Bar, or creative “mocktail” station.

Chef and Zach’s Predictions
Eat Your Veggies
No one ever said Popeye was a genius, but he did have something behind that whole “spinach” concept. Our Chef and Sous Chef at Crushed Ice Catering predict that we’ll be cooking, and eating, a vast variety of vegetable focused dishes this year. Our Clients’ palates are more adventurous – and health conscience in 2016.

In just 12 short months, we’ll be able to reflect back on 2016 and all it had to offer. Here’s to hoping we are on-point with our predictions!
Cheers!
Erica