But what does that mean for wedding planning?
Wedding Planning Is About the “Wow” Moment
Back in the day, traditional weddings were pretty straightforward. There is plenty of food, flower decorations, and cheer for all. But, for the new generation of brides and grooms, it’s about standing out and wowing everyone with an unexpected feature, be it hot air balloon rides or music shows.
The Brides and Grooms of Today
It would seem couples take their time in deciding to tie the knot. Research shows the average marriage age for both men and women continues to climb. It is 34 for the gentlemen and 30 for the ladies, as opposed to 31 and 28 a decade ago.
The Guest Experience Is No Longer the Same
Today, there are fewer guests at wedding receptions, but the cost per guest has gone up. It’s because of various factors like higher premium vendors, “wow” effects, and inflation. There’s also the shift in making weddings an entire weekend or two-day experience, as opposed to a one-day celebration.
Wedding Styles Have Changed
The reigning attire style has always been predominantly semi-formal, and that hasn’t changed. However, fast fashion and fashion, in general, allow people to find decent retail options and focus more on the accessories. It’s normal to see a groom in a well-fitted suit and stylish sneakers.
A New Wedding Season
The summer of 2010 set many new trends, one of which made fall weddings popular again. Almost a third of all weddings now take place in the days between September and November. The reason behind this transition is because outdoor weddings have also enjoyed increased popularity, and mid-fall provides the perfect period for a wedding out in the open.