For richer or poorer
Does anyone hear just one wedding bell? That’s right, even brides-to-be are reevaluating their budgets in this recession. About 25% of couples plan to slice their wedding budgets in half, and 1 in 10 intend to cut back costs by 75%, according to a nationwide survey recently released by retailer David’s Bridal. Does that mean open bar for just 20 minutes?
The “What’s on Brides’ Minds” poll also revealed that 53% do not plan to spend more than $25,000. The Assn. for Wedding Professionals estimates that in 2008 the average wedding cost $21,000 to $24,000, though the Assn. of Bridal Consultants puts the figure closer to $35,000. A significant 34% of brides-to-be have a much lower figure in mind, telling pollsters that they do not plan to spend more than $10,000 on a wedding.
The wedding industry has always had the brides by the veils when it comes to costs, but maybe the cake tables are turning? Clearly, the planners, DJs, caterers and florists will also have to make adjustments to meet the needs of couples on a budget.
“They’re offering more value instead of modifying their prices. For instance, a photographer recently added another album to a lower-priced package,” says Harmony Walton, founder of the Bridal Bar, an L.A. boutique that offers free consultation on local vendors and all things wedding-related. “I’m also seeing more invitation designers offering promo codes for 10% off.”
Over at SellMyWeddingDress.com, a used -- once, presumably -- Vera Wang size 8 gown of tulle and satin that sold originally for $4,800 is priced at $1,500. And there are alternate routes to outfitting. I spent a mere $175 on my vintage 1970s Mexican wedding dress, which I found downtown at Shareen Vintage. (My splurge was on Valentino platform peacock sandals instead.)
At the end of the big day, experts agree that cutting the head count is the best way to save money. Fewer fourth cousins means fewer tables, which means fewer peony centerpieces. Even the wedding planner becomes less expensive. “Most consultants base their fee on how much a wedding costs,” says Jean Picard, California state coordinator for the Assn. of Wedding Consultants. “For some, it may not be the time to have dinner and dancing for 300 of your father’s business associates.”
And if a scaled-down wedding just doesn’t appeal, here’s a recession-proof proposal: “Honey, will you elope with me?”
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