Weddings have always been one of life’s most anticipated milestones, but also one of the most expensive. Now, in the midst of a global cost-of-living crisis, the price of “I do” is climbing even higher. Couples are finding themselves paying more for everything from flowers to food, while the businesses that make these celebrations possible are being forced to adapt to a shifting economic landscape.
Rising Costs for Couples
Across the board, wedding budgets are being stretched. Venues and caterers, dealing with increased labour and energy costs, have raised their prices. Florists are paying more to import blooms as freight costs soar, and designers face higher fabric prices for gowns and suits.
The result? Couples are cutting guest lists, trimming menus, or choosing weekday weddings to keep costs manageable. A carefully styled table for 30 is increasingly replacing a ballroom dinner for 150.
The Strain on Businesses
It isn’t only couples feeling the pressure. The ripple effects of inflation are being felt throughout the industry.
- Dressmakers in major production hubs report jumps in fabric and labour costs.
- Hospitality providers have adjusted menus to reflect the rising price of meat, dairy, and energy.
- Florists are grappling with unpredictable supply chains and higher freight costs.
For some smaller operators, the pressure has been too great, leading to closures. Others are adapting with pared-back packages or budget-friendly alternatives to keep celebrations accessible.
Changing the Look of Weddings
Inflation is also reshaping how weddings look and feel. Micro-weddings and elopements, once niche, have surged in popularity. Digital invitations and online planning tools, like Say I do, are replacing stacks of stationery. Even destination weddings are being reconsidered; in some cases, all-inclusive packages abroad cost less than hosting in major cities like Sydney.
These choices reflect a growing emphasis on intimacy, value, and personalisation over scale.
A Two-Tiered Market
What’s emerging is a divided wedding economy.
- Luxury weddings: Largely unaffected, with high-spending couples continuing to invest in premium venues, designers, and experiences.
- Budget-conscious weddings: A growing segment defined by smaller guest lists, simplified décor, and creative compromises.
The “middle ground”, the once-standard large wedding, is shrinking, squeezed by rising costs and shifting priorities.
Looking Ahead
Even as inflation begins to ease in some regions, its impact on weddings is unlikely to vanish quickly. Couples are weighing their big day against other life goals, such as mortgages or childcare, while businesses refine their pricing and services to meet a new generation of expectations.
The wedding economy, once defined by tradition, is now shaped by economic reality. Love may be priceless, but the way we celebrate it is evolving, proof that even the most enduring rituals must bend with the times.
About Say I do Wedding Planning
Say I do is an all-in-one wedding planning platform that helps couples design a wedding website, manage RSVPs, and stay organized with planning tools. For more information, visit sayi.do.
Media Contact
Say I do
help@sayi.do
