WEDDING PLANNER
Then: Mother knows best!
Now: Mother takes a rest. Brides plan their weddings on their own, with the help of their mothers, grooms or wedding planners.

THE DRESS
Then: White billowing dresses, mainly ball gown style
Now: Fashion takes over. Red Carpet bride with the aisle as her runway, confident and sexy, she plans it her way.

BRIDESMAIDS
Then: Pink polyester and monstrous bow
Now: Maids are elegant, discerning and chic. Emphasis on wear-again dressing.

THE ROCK
Then: Groom proposes and presents the ring
Now: Groom proposes and often involves the bride in engagement ring shopping.

CEREMONY LOCATION
Then: Church ceremony and a beautiful hall
Now: Location explosion! Celebrants are often willing to marry a couple at exotic locations. Beach and destination weddings are two of many options.

MOTHER ATTIRE
Then: Conservative and quiet; tonings were generally in brown, navy or pastels
Now: Super chic, glamorous dressing. Mothers dress fashionably and in keeping with style of the wedding.

FATHER OF THE BRIDE
Then: Dad foots the bill
Now: Sharing of expenses with groom's side or couple is now the norm

FORMALITY AND GUESTS
Then: Large parties of 300 or more were the regular expectation.
Now: Intimate to large, from formal to casual and smart.

BOUQUET AND FLOWERS
Then: Demure white was used throughout, including bouquets and bows
Now: Freedom to explode with color and creative add-ons. Fuchsia and other strong colors are no longer avoided. Grapes and berries add stylistic touches to lush arrangements.

INVITATIONS
Then: Ivory and cream and formal calligraphy. Invitations were standard and suitably formal.
Now: Creativity and taste without any bounds. Textured paper and colorful letters are among the many options.

KIDS
Then: Children were expected to be quiet without regard to their needs
Now: Special menus, games and proper kid tables are popular.

TABLE DECOR
Then: Crisp, white linen, spread in uniformity. Candles for dinner and speeches.
Now: Decor and settings are coordinated to make a splash of design.

FOOD
Then: Three-course meal, chicken or beef. Heavy sauces without much attention to other dietary requirements, such as for vegetarians.
Now: Light and fresh ingredients. Cultural cuisine and great regard to all dietary needs, from Kosher to allergenic.

THE CAKE
Then: Three tiers and icing, always white
Now: Couples choose cakes that are full of character and taste that may follow a theme or even be a playful foodie choice such as cupcakes and ice cream.

ENTERTAINMENT
Then: A band and DJ played all the hits
Now: Musical renditions are creative and often blend culture with classics.