Brides Magazine's 77th Annual Bridal Trends Survey

Brides Magazine's Michelle Myers, VP and publisher has the scoop on the latest bridal trends, courtesy of the magazine's 77th annual American wedding study.

What do couples need to be aware of while planning a wedding? First, the cost of weddings has increased just about 27k. But the biggest change they found is a growing trend of couples paying for their own weddings. 36% of couples pay for their weddings entirely themselves. 29% contribute substantially.. So that's 65% of couples significantly investing in their own weddings. This means couples are feeling empowered to put their own spin on things, make their weddings more personal and decide what they want to spend on and where they want to save.

What are couples looking to spend on, and where are they are willing to cut costs? Well, according to the results...it is all about prioritization - couples are making decisions based on what is most important to them - so if they are foodies, they may spend the most on a great meal. They may choose to spend on dcor, or a photographer - this is what the mag sees as smart, strategic decision making based on prioritization.

One thing couples are not cutting back on is the way they look. Wedding dress costs continue to increase...up to 1,355 this year from 1,289 last year. And the average costs of bridesmaid dress? Now $145 on average... groomsmen attire and honeymoon attire has also increased! Brides Magazine also found people are spending less on flowers - the trend leans toward local and seasonal instead of imports which actually lowers floral costs by a large margin.

So, what is trending, location wise? The mag found a few new trends that have entered the mainstream.

31% go with a personal theme - something meaningful to them as a couple. If they're people who love country music they may have a country&western themed wedding -if they've traveled to Hawaii and it is a meaningful location to them you might see a Hawaiian themed wedding or a custom cocktail that tells their story. How they are planning has changed as well - 25% use apps and nearly 59% use pinterest! It's made wedding planning super creative and of course exciting!

Check out the latest issue on news stands now or go to brides.com!