Wedding Trends for 2009
I read an article that stated that the number of weddings held in 2009 will hold steady at about 2.2 million nationwide. However, as we have all observed, the economy is changing the way we plan events. The article suggested the following as current national trends:
- Smaller weddings with fewer guests
- Destination or destination-type weddings closer to home
- Accent colors on dresses and cakes with the most popular being greens and blues
- Increased reliance on family and friends to help plan, pay, and provide some of the services
- Increased use of green "eco-friendly" products and services
- Simplified decorations, centerpieces and wedding invitations
- Increased use of online RSVP's vs. traditional mail-in RSVPs
- Off-peak weddings - mornings, afternoons, Fridays, Sundays; October becomes the new June
- Buffet meals, hors d'oeuvre, and cocktail receptions
- Cheesecakes, cupcakes and miniature cakes instead of a traditional wedding cake
Though these may be national trends, some of them have been the "norm" in southern Idaho for years. We regularly have local "destination" weddings to such places as McCall and Stanley. Because of the number of events held in this area and the lack of facilities, Friday and Sunday are both typical "wedding days," and have been for several years. Buffet meals are also the norm in this area.
We are definitely seeing a trend toward shorter receptions with less food and little or no alcohol. Another trend in this area is not hiring a DJ or band. Instead, couples are downloading music to an iPod or a laptop. Often, they forego dancing, other than perhaps the first dances.
We are seeing the trend toward smaller weddings, afternoon weddings, and more of a cocktail-style reception. We are also seeing a return to receptions held at a church.
Fortunately, people are continuing to hire event planners, with the expectation that we can help them make the best decisions for their reduced budgets. One good thing to come out of the economic downturn is that people are no longer feeling the pressure to do what their friends did at their wedding. Instead, they are focusing on what they really want and can afford to do.
We are definitely seeing a trend toward shorter receptions with less food and little or no alcohol. Another trend in this area is not hiring a DJ or band. Instead, couples are downloading music to an iPod or a laptop. Often, they forego dancing, other than perhaps the first dances.
We are seeing the trend toward smaller weddings, afternoon weddings, and more of a cocktail-style reception. We are also seeing a return to receptions held at a church.
Fortunately, people are continuing to hire event planners, with the expectation that we can help them make the best decisions for their reduced budgets. One good thing to come out of the economic downturn is that people are no longer feeling the pressure to do what their friends did at their wedding. Instead, they are focusing on what they really want and can afford to do.
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