2009 Wedding Trends Show Couples Reevaluating the Value of Weddings

My friend Amber Gustafson from Amber Events in Los Angeles, CA posted an entry on her blog on 2009 wedding trends a few weeks ago which I just found and wanted to share with you. I have included Amber's own commentary as well because I am one of those in the wedding industry she refers to who completely agree with her. 

Here is Amber's post...

"This post taken from the ever awesome Wedding Report is not about colors and the cutest new favors, but more about the overall state of the wedding industry as it relates to what is going on in the economy. People are still getting married, they are just looking at it a bit differently than they were a year ago.

2009 Market Forecast 

In 2009, the number of couples getting married will remain steady overall at about 2.2 million. If the economy begins to recover, we may see a slight increase; however, if we see more economic turmoil the number of weddings will decline in 2009 as couples wait for the economy to recover. Spending will follow the same trend, except that overall spending will be down 10% over 2008, which is already seeing a decline of 20-30%. In 2009, we estimate the average wedding cost to be between $21,000 and $25,000.

2009 Trends

Most trends in 2009 will relate to saving money with the exception of a few. We expect other money saving trends to emerge.

• Smaller weddings with fewer guests

• Destination weddings or destination type weddings closer to home 

• Accent colors on dresses and cakes with the most popular being greens and blues (& "Mimosa" yellow as well).

• Increased reliance on family and friends to help plan, pay, and provide some of the services

• Increased use of green and echo 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

• All-inclusive packages

 There has been a lot of talk in the wedding industry about whether or not we should cut our prices in order to survive in this market. For myself personally, the answer is no. I believe in the quality of the service I provide and I believe in the reasons of why I charge what I charge. My mechanic, lawyer, accountant, and IT guy aren't lowering their prices, because they too believe in the quality and the necessity of the work they do. Granted, you can get married without a wedding coordinator, but if you do want one, always remember that you get what you pay for!"

*Your Las Vegas Wedding Concierge has not discounted my pricing however my 2008 fees for all my services will continue through 2009 for at least the first 4-6 months. I am confident my fees are competitive and fair. They reflect the professionalism, high quality and level of service, dedication & passion I give to each and every wedding couple I work with.

I firmly believe that whether I (or someone in your city or destination locale) assist you for a few hours or over the course of several months, having an advocate to guide you to make the best decisions in planning a beautiful, successful, memorable and affordable wedding within your budget is value worth considering.