When it comes to weddings, today's brides and grooms want something truly unique. They constantly search for new ways to customize old traditions. Maybe brides trade white heels for pink sneakers, or even cowboy boots. Perhaps they put one-time-use camcorders on the reception tables instead of disposable cameras. Given enough thought and creativity, couples can put a new twist on just about every aspect of their big event.

Want a few ideas for your upcoming nuptials? Wedding professionals offer these trendy ideas.

Jim Flitts (ENLARGE)

Today's couples are going over the top in at least one aspect of their weddings, including the use of bold colors, including jewel tones, reds and browns, said Tony Conway, owner of A Legendary Event.

Lydia Dull (ENLARGE)

Tony Conway, owner of A Legendary Event, transformed this tent into a fairy-tale setting with the use of vine-covered walls, toile fabric and subtle lighting.

Specialty drink bars

Rather than — or in addition to — traditional open bars, today's couples are experimenting with a variety of specialty drink bars, such as martini bars and hot tea bars. For instance, they may opt for a coffee bar, featuring such specialties as cappuccino, espresso and lattes. Or they may add a non-alcoholic drink bar with fresh juices and flavored waters.

Sheryl Evertson, owner/president of The Pavillion, a special events facility in Dunwoody and east Cobb, says she sees a lot of boutique wine bars at receptions. "[Many couples are] foodies," Evertson said. "They're much more educated on food and beverages."

Color, color, color

Tony Conway, president/owner of A Legendary Event in Atlanta, said he is seeing color used in lots of weddings and receptions. Jewel tones, reds, copper and chocolate brown are just a few of the hot hues replacing white and off-white this year. In fact, no color seems to be off-limits.

"Black is certainly there," he said. "It's quite refreshing that they don't seem to be afraid to mix these colors."

Evertson said she's also seeing very bold, dramatic colors, such as robin's-egg blue, pale green and chartreuse. And, as part of the many ethnic weddings she's putting together, Evertson also uses hot pinks and reds.

Splashes of color are not limited to wedding attire. Conway said color is popping up everywhere, including invitations, flowers, wedding cakes and table linens.

Lights, camera, video

While many couples opt to have their special day recorded on video, they rarely have an opportunity to relive those moments with their family and friends. Thanks to a new option from ClipGloss Productions in Acworth, now they can.

As part of their videography package, couples can purchase a full-length streaming video of their event, which is uploaded to their own Web site hosted by ClipGloss Productions. Friends and family then have access to unlimited downloads for the next six months.

"There are so many friends and family who cannot attend, and they get to experience every minute for themselves," said Kathy Delgado, associate producer.

For couples who want to take their memories on the road, ClipGloss offers the iPod Wedding Videos To Go option, which includes a white or black 30GB video iPod with couples' DVD chapters preloaded.

"It's just another option we offer that will allow the newlywed couple to relive the happiest day of their lives over and over again," producer Christopher P. Vlk said.

Break up the routine

When it comes to planning an event as unique as the couple itself, national party planner David Tutera, president of David Tutera Inc., suggests shaking things up.

"The reception is the time to celebrate," he said. "Brides and grooms are really tailoring the receptions to reflect their personalities. The best way to add a twist is to break the ordinary timeline.

"Move your guests from dinner into a new room or tent for dessert and dancing. It's a great way to keep them active and invested in the wedding."

Over the top

To leave an indelible impression on their guests, many brides and grooms are making the most of at least one aspect of their wedding affair. It could be anything, Conway said. From lighting, music or tabletops to floral, seating or food. For example, he said, he had a recent ceremony where the couple had a choir provide some of the music. However, instead of standing in a special place of honor, the choir members sat in the audience. When it was their time to perform, they simply stood up and sang. What an impact!

Another example would be intimate, lounge-style seating throughout the reception site. Conway said he even saw a cigar station set up in a tent, complete with leather sofas and scotch tastings.

When planning a wedding, the sky is the limit.

"Inspiration comes from within," Tutera said. "If you want to try something new, don't be afraid. I always say there are no rules. Make it personal and make it fun. Weddings are a celebration!"