Wedding trends

What's in and what's out? Discover this year's wedding trends in our annual First Look Reports. Each year, we survery thousands of couples getting married to find out what's in and what's out. Get inspired by how couples are planning, budgeting for and throwing their weddings this year.

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2025 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 6,000 couples getting married in 2025 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.

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2025 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report

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For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 6,000 couples getting married in 2025 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.

Just married couple sitting outside their apartment

2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report

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For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.

2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report Data Deep Dive

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Zola surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about why, what and how they’re planning for their weddings. Here’s a deeper dive into all of the data.

The First Look Report 2023 Hero

The First Look Report 2023

Inspiration

Zola’s annual guide to wedding trends and budgets. Here's what's new in 2023...

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The Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report: The Hottest Trends Predicted

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Pinterest and Zola have teamed up to reveal the biggest emerging wedding trends of 2023.

The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition

The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition

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Zola surveyed over 4,000 couples on their planning journeys to find out what’s shaping 2023. This report explores how and why these answers matter to wedding professionals.

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\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n ","slug":"wedding-trends","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends","description":"What's in and what's out? Discover this year's wedding trends in our annual First Look Reports. Each year, we survery thousands of couples getting married to find out what's in and what's out. Get inspired by how couples are planning, budgeting for and throwing their weddings this year.","subtopics":[{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"the-first-look-report-2025","title":"2025 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report ","excerpt":"For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 6,000 couples getting married in 2025 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.","author":"Alexis Benveniste and Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2024-12-11T18:48:23.171Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6BYfpHsHMVu2Jni4j1LBYr/4e8150b68c3b6378d1177d67e50ceab8/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_cover.jpg","altText":"Just married couple sitting outside their apartment"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- __No surprises, please:__ Move over, mystery! Couples are planning weddings well before they’re “officially, officially” engaged, with the amount of couples taking serious steps—like booking venues or shopping for attire—more than doubling since last year.\n- __Expectations vs. reality:__ Social media inspires 91% of couples, but nearly half (48%) struggle with the gap between picture-perfect ideals and real-life budgets, showcasing both the upside and downside of finding inspiration online.\n- __Macro over micro:__ Intimate weddings are technically “trending”, but most couples still host more than 100 guests, with uninvited +1s and no-shows keeping guest list drama alive.\n- __What’s in and what’s out:__ Couples are leaning into modern takes on pearls and lace and favoring private vow exchanges, while leaving behind extravagance (for the sake of extravagance) for hyper-personalized celebrations that feel uniquely theirs.\n- __Weddings are getting (even more) expensive:__ With the average 2025 wedding cost climbing to $36,000, couples are saving, sharing costs, and splurging on what matters most—and 95% say it’s worth every penny.\n- __Rewriting some, but not all rules:__ While many couples are reinventing “outdated” wedding norms—like who is expected to pay for the wedding or what gifts are acceptable—certain traditions remain deeply loved.","body":"Every year, we dive deep into the world of weddings to uncover the latest trends, powered by insights from thousands of Zola couples. This year, one takeaway is crystal clear: As much as we all love obsessing over, pinning, and discussing wedding trends (and let’s be honest, that’s why we’re all here!), many of them never make it down the aisle.\n\nHere’s why: There is a contrast between the dreamy, aspirational images couples want to emulate, the trends they want to incorporate, and the reality of what their budget allows. Even with wedding budgets increasing and many couples saving for years or taking on extra jobs to afford their “dream day,” they simply can’t afford everything on their FYP. That, or when it comes down to it - they’d rather their wedding feel timeless than “of the moment.”\n\nIn fact, pragmatism may be just the trend that IS embraced by all couples. Couples are planning their weddings way before the proposal (because why not?), saying “yes” to having all of their loved ones attend over a microwedding (even if small, intimate vibes are apparently in), sticking with classic music choices, and even using AI-powered tools to save time and streamline planning. \n\nThis doesn’t mean 2025 weddings won’t be share-worthy or deeply personal. Today’s couples are striking a perfect balance between reinventing (or creating their own) traditions and embracing customs that stand the test of time—all while keeping their celebrations authentic and highly memorable. An interesting duality is emerging, as we see couples want to break from expectations of their parents and older generations to do it “their own way,” while wanting to conform to some of the same traditions that in their minds, define a wedding and a marriage. \n\nWith that, here are all of the unique ways—and yes, the trends—that Zola couples are planning their weddings for 2025.\n\n# Couples are getting a head start on planning – even before they get engaged\n\nPracticality might not sound romantic, but it has become a big part of modern love stories. Many couples have lived together, and been together for 4–6 years or even longer, so they’re diving into the planning process head first. And they’re not just daydreaming: 100% of the couples we surveyed (yes, every single one) took at least one step toward the big day, from building vision boards to curating their dream registry, all before they’re “officially, officially” engaged. \n\n__What’s more, compared to 2024 couples, the number who took what we’d consider a serious step has more than doubled__ – touring or booking a venue, setting a wedding date, shopping for wedding attire, inviting their wedding party, or even sending out save-the-dates. \n\nEven the ring itself isn’t always a surprise: 53% of couples shop for rings together, and 70% discuss the timing of their engagement in advance to make sure the moment is just right for both partners. Additionally, 8% of couples had a counterproposal, while another 8% said they wish they had counterproposed, highlighting a shift towards more collaborative and mutual engagement moments.\n\nWhen it comes to choosing the big moment, Christmas is the most popular date to get engaged, followed by Christmas Eve, December 23 and New Year’s Eve. Maybe it’s the mistletoe or the holiday magic, but it could also be the plain efficiency and thoughtfulness of choosing a time when friends and family are already gathered to celebrate together.\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics 2025 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5GcwuSXWDxS91CZqqKub0l/af6e3012ac75bc48e9f812c660b2232a/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_3.jpg)\n\n# The less social side of social media\n\nSince we began writing this report, the amount of wedding-related content available to couples online has probably quadrupled. Social content brings incredible joy, value, and even relief to the often overwhelming wedding planning process. And of course, it’s an undeniable treasure trove of ideas from color and fashion inspo to DIY details. In fact, 91% of couples call social media an invaluable planning resource— spending more than an hour a day scrolling for ideas. \n\nBeyond sparking ideas, social media does play a crucial role in the planning process itself: More than two-thirds (68%) of couples vet potential vendors—like venues, photographers, and makeup artists—by scrolling through their Instagram and TikTok accounts. It’s a great way of ensuring that vendors truly understand their vision and can bring it to life, which is the #1 reason why couples decide to pick a certain vendor.\n\nBut there’s a more complicated reality–a split between the inspiration and joy that comes from scrolling and the disappointment when Instagram just can’t quite align with reality. The gap between budgets and expectations fueled by social media has become the single biggest pain point for 2025 couples. 48% are struggling to find a balance between what they can realistically afford and the ”picture-perfect” weddings they see online.\n\nWhile couples don’t aim for a deliberately “trendy” or “perfect-for-social-media” wedding (in fact, these words ranked at the very bottom when we asked how they want their wedding to be perceived), 21% of 2025 couples still plan to create social-specific content for their big day, valuing the immediacy and “realness” that Reels and Tiktoks of their wedding create. \n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5meD6B5pEkOzQUiNuseCp7/bc2ab6e70f905b9ce5678ad1e74e4c3f/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip.jpg)\n\n# Weddings Vibes and Venues\n\nFor the second year in a row, garden parties top the list for both vibe and venue—and it’s no surprise. They perfectly embody the top five words couples use to describe their wedding style: Classic, Modern, Rustic, Minimalist, and Whimsical. Those romantic Bridgerton vibes are still inspiring us—we’re clearly not ready to leave that moment behind.\n\nAnd, along with the garden theme, Mother Nature is the ultimate wedding guest, as sustainability continues to trend upward. 17% of couples are thrifting or sustainably sourcing elements of their wedding look, while another 17% are focused on cutting down waste to make their celebration more eco-friendly.\n\nRanking second as the ideal wedding venue are rustic ranches, farms and barns, pointing to couples’ preferences for spaces that have character, charm, and ambiance built-in. In fact, having a built-in vibe is extremely important when it comes to choosing a venue - only 2% wanted to customize a totally blank space. Yes, a blank space means you can make your venue completely your own, but it also means you have exponentially more decisions to make. With decision fatigue being a VERY real thing for couples navigating wedding planning, many would prefer to pick cups and plates from the venue’s inventory vs. have more day-of details to account for (both on your to-do list and in your budget). \n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1XJUk15XVmSjDKrD7pguhe/044fd4c205e1421996ed46739c48760b/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip-1.jpg)\n\n# 2025 Wedding Color Trends\n\nWhile maximalism is still “trending” (we’re seeing accents of neon and bright colors tastefully incorporated into decor), 2025 couples widely prefer romantic hues and understated tones, reinforcing the timeless popularity of a nature-inspired and earthy aesthetic: \n\n- __Green__, an obvious complement to garden parties, is still the most popular color for 2025 weddings, with sage ranking as the #1 shade to appear in palettes (second only to classic wedding white).\n- __Earth tones__ like terracotta, rust, mocha (hello, 2025 Pantone Color of the Year!) and burnt orange reflect a preference for rustic and casual vibes that align with fall becoming the most popular wedding season.\n- A larger portion of couples are favoring __pastels and soft shades__ like dusty blue, blush pink, lilac, and peach, bringing a dreamy and romantic feel to their celebrations.\n- Others are embracing vibrant hues with color palettes inspired by __wildflowers__ to create a playful and whimsical style.\n\nCouples are not only thinking about color for wedding decor - we’re seeing more couples embrace color for their engagement rings with almost 10% of 2025 couples opting for colored gemstones. \n\nOne place where couples have set pretty clear color rules? Wedding attire. \n\n- __Wearing white:__ 95% of those surveyed agree that wearing white as a wedding guest is totally unacceptable.\n- __Seeing red:__ 74% concede that wearing red is fair-game and celebratory (as long as it is culturally appropriate) because the couple will always steal the spotlight. \n\n# Intimate Weddings, Big Guests Lists\n\nWe know that intimate weddings are definitely “in” for 2025. In fact, a small guest list was one of the most “in” trends as ranked by all 6,000+ couples surveyed. But in reality, most weddings are anything but tiny, and guest lists are not shrinking. Only 6% of weddings will have less than 50 people, and just 14% (including that 6%) will stay under 75. Most couples are still planning to celebrate with more than 100 or more than 150 guests. \n\nOne factor that’s contributing to larger guests lists is that most 2025 weddings are close to home—67% are local enough for the majority of guests to drive (compared to 32% that are destination weddings). After all, trimming a guest list—or hoping it trims itself with a few “no” RSVPs—is much easier when distances make attending a bit trickier.\n\nSo, what’s our conclusion? That 2025 couples want their wedding to FEEL intimate, while still having their closest friends and family in attendance. One way they’re doing this (while keeping their guest list large) is by incorporating personal touches and stacking their wedding weekend itinerary with opportunities to have 1:1 conversations with their guests, so they can spend quality time (and make guests feel special) without putting pressure on the wedding day. \n\nWhile couples control the guest list (for the most part), they can’t always control how their guests act, which is a major source of tension:\n\n- __Uninvited +1s:__ 20% of couples who got married in 2024 told us that an extra +1 who was not on the original invite showed up at their wedding; but 82% of those surveyed agree that this is never okay. \n- __No-shows:__ 78% of 2024 couples said some yes RSVPs didn’t show up on the big day. While illness and travel delays were the usual culprits, in 30% of cases, the reason remains a mystery. (Pro tip: If you can’t make it, just send a quick note—trust us!)\n\n# The average cost of a wedding? More than last year\n\nWhen it comes to planning a wedding, your love comes with a price tag (that continues to increase). __The average cost for a 2025 wedding is projected to hit a high of $36,000__, up from the average of $33,000 in 2024 and $29,000 in 2023. So, what are the main contributing factors for these costs?\n\n- __Larger guest lists__: Weddings with between 50-75 guests cost on average $21,500, while weddings with between 150 - 200 guests cost on average $45,000.\n- __Location, location, location__: Local vs. destination, big city vs. suburban/rural. The average local wedding costs $34,208, compared to $41,312 for a destination wedding. And when we zoom in on city-specific numbers, NYC takes the top spot as the most expensive place to get married, with an average cost of $65,000, with Washington D.C. not far behind at $52,000. There are, however, plenty of cities where couples can tie the knot for less than the national average such as Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis, Seattle, Cleveland, Orlando and Houston. \n- __Splurgeworthy wedding professionals__: Couples are most willing to splurge on key elements including an incredible photographer to capture every memory, a stunning venue, and food and drinks that keep everyone celebrating all night long.\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1uPo11yRZvpBkIAmt6Bjau/9bd6060fd1a601ed9cf299211cf6b408/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip-2.jpg)\n\n# Is (going over) the budget worth it? Couples say yes\n\nWith the cost of weddings climbing every year since we started publishing our First Look Report (which, okay, has only been since 2022), we had to ask: Is it worth it? The answer: Absolutely.\n\nIn 2024, we reported that the average cost of a wedding was expected to be $33,000. This year, for the first time, we followed up with 1,500 of those newly married couples and found that 74% ended up going over their original expected budget.\n\nHere’s the kicker: While 37% reported going over by less than $5,000, 20% exceeded their anticipated cost by $10,000. And when we asked if it was worth it, 95% of them said, “It absolutely was.”\n\nHaving a wedding is a deeply intentional choice, and it isn’t made lightly. 87% of couples contribute to their wedding costs (29% fully and 58% partially). Many have been saving for years before getting engaged, and they’ve already tackled major financial decisions together—43% have combined their finances, and 24% have purchased a home. After years together, they’re making an active choice to celebrate their love on their terms. Add in all that intentional saving, optimizing credit cards, and even side hustles (20% took on extra gigs to afford the day), it’s no wonder they’re willing to splurge a little on their ideal venue, food, flowers, and photos. They’re crafting a celebration that feels worth every penny.\n\n# So…who pays?\n\nWith even more events - from wedding welcome parties, after-parties, bach events, and goodbye brunches - on the agenda, more budget questions are popping up for both couples and their guests. Should the couple foot the bill for these additional events and expenses, or is it reasonable to ask guests to pitch in? When it costs couples on average $2,800 to host a welcome party, and attending a bach party sets most guests back more than $600, what rules apply?\n\nWe asked couples what they thought and got a wide range of opinions—proving there’s plenty of room for clarity on cost etiquette. Here’s what we learned:\n\n- __Wedding party attire:__ Opinions are split. 51% of couples think the wedding party should pay for their own outfits, while 33% believe the couple should cover the cost as a thank-you to their crew.\n- __Hair and makeup:__ 53% of couples feel it’s their responsibility to cover the cost, while 33% think the wedding party should handle it themselves.\n- __Pre- and post-wedding events:__ Nearly a third of respondents admitted they’re unsure about who should pick up the tab for things like welcome parties and goodbye brunches.\n- __Bach parties:__ There’s more agreement here. 79% say friends should pay their own way.\n- __Destination weddings:__ We also asked the 32% of couples opting for a destination wedding (6% of those being international) one of the top questions we hear from guests heading to far-away celebrations: Are guests expected to spend the same amount on a wedding gift if they’re also covering travel and accommodations? The answer is no. 79% of destination wedding couples expect their guests to spend less on the wedding gift than they normally would, fully appreciating the extra effort, and expense, it takes to celebrate with them.\n\nOur conclusion? There’s a lot of gray area when it comes to who covers what, leaving the decision largely up to the couple. Our advice - set expectations with guests, and leave room for open and honest dialogue about what they can (or are not willing to) afford. \n\n# To tech or not to tech, that is the question\n\nAI is officially making its mark on the wedding planning process, with 90% of couples open to using it to save time on tasks like managing their budget, finding inspiration, creating schedules, and even drafting thank-you cards. 23% of couples are already incorporating AI into their planning process, (a 5% increase from last year) and we predict it will grow as many couples are still in the early stages of planning.\n\n74% of couples are cool with AI crafting wedding toasts and speeches–just as long as the heartfelt and emotional words come from the couples (or guests) themselves. The one big way couples are divided on AI? Writing their wedding vows. When it comes to this emotionally-involved aspect of the wedding planning process 51% of couples are okay with it, and 49% of couples are not. We’ll let 2026 couples break this tie. \n\n# What’s in and what’s out for 2025 \n\nEvery year, we ask couples what they’d consider “in” and “out” for weddings to get a pulse on what is gaining and dropping in popularity. The results are below, but let us caveat: trends are always in the eye of the beholder. So even if something lands on the “out” list, that doesn’t mean it’s passé or unacceptable. It’s up to each individual couple to decide what’s right for them!\n\n__What’s In:__\n- __Unique venues:__ Even if gardens and barns are popular choices, every couple wants their venue to feel personal, authentic, and a little unconventional.\n- __Film photography:__ Nostalgia is having a major moment. This is an exciting way that couples are expressing themselves, and we can’t wait to see what specific styles of film photography pop up in 2025.\n- __Phone-free unplugged ceremonies:__ Put away the devices - aisle selfies are solidly out. Couples want their guests to stay focused and let the pros capture their moments. \n- __Extra-special wedding nail art:__ Nail art eye candy is taking over everyone’s feeds, and couples are using nail art as a way to show off their wedding style (peep pearl-embellishments and pops of bright color).\n- __Exchanging vows in private:__ Yes, couples want to party with their guests. But they also deeply cherish the special moment of exchanging vows, and want that moment to be intimate. \n- __Pearls & lace:__ Couples are remixing these timeless, classic materials - you’ll see modern takes on everything from dresses and veils, to nails.\n- __Outfit changes:__ Couples are expressing their individuality and creating MORE memorable moments by switching up their attire, sometimes multiple times during the event(s).\n- __Extra first look moments:__ 56% of couples have a first look with their partner, but 41% are adding a second first look with other loved ones. From parents and friends to children, couples savor special moments of calm. \n- __Classic music:__ The top song that gets 2025 couples moving is Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” And, when it comes to first dances, couples are all about romance: Elvis Presley’s “I Can’t Help Falling in Love” held the top spot last year, and we’re betting it’ll be hard to dethrone in 2025.\n- __Signature cocktails (and mocktails):__ 54% of couples will have these on the menu, and we love to see that having an alcohol-free wedding no longer means guests will have limited options. \n- __Secular weddings:__ 32% of couples are choosing religion-free ceremonies in 2025, up from 28% last year. That doesn’t mean that couples aren’t sharing their values, though - couples are incorporating their values into everything from their vows to their choice of vendor. \n- __Friend/family officiants:__ 61% of couples are asking loved ones to officiate their weddings, marking the third year in a row that this is “in” (and gaining in popularity). \n\n__What’s Out:__\n- __Over-the-top lavish celebrations:__ Because we value our money and can’t all afford to get married like a celebrity, even if we love to read about their weddings. \n- __Bow embellishments:__ A bold runway statement, but 63% of couples still said, “No, thanks.”\n- __Champagne towers:__ A great photo opp, but 2025 couples would rather drink (then waste) their bubbles.\n- __Neon signs:__ What used to be a major source of customization (and photo moment) is going out of vogue as couples find other ways to personalize their nuptials. \n- __Wedding hashtags:__ Similar to neon signs, couples are finding alternative ways to show off their personality. That said, we will always love a creative wedding hashtag!\n- __Bouquet toss:__ We’re seeing more couples choosing to preserve their bouquet vs. tossing it. \n\n__A House – And Survey – Divided:__ \n- __Required dress code for wedding guests:__ Some love the ease of knowing what to wear, but not everyone loves the limitation. Either way, make sure your dress code is clear and not ambiguous (that is a Team-Z definitive “out.”)\n- __Drop-waist gowns:__ We know drop waist gowns were all over Bridal Fashion Week, but many couples find this trend to be inaccessible. \n- __Elaborate wedding exits:__ Social-worthy, for sure, but with 30% of couples planning a wedding after-party, not everyone sees it as a must.\n- __Traditional wedding cake over other desserts:__ One thing is clear, sweet treats are in style. From cake (or cakes) to creative dessert tables, couples love closing the meal with something yummy. \n- __Colorful maximalist vibe:__ Joyful and bold for some, but others think less is more.\n- __Hiring a wedding content creator:__ With 21% capturing social-specific content, the decision to hire a wedding content creator vs. DIY depends on priorities and budget.\n\n![1205 FLR2024 EA inline graphic 4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6ZrloJYPtztUKInXaggkoW/bdbd37ee7e94241de266f29ab4c2f04d/1205_FLR2024_EA_inline_graphic_4.jpg)\n\n# Bring on the gifts\n\nWith weddings becoming more expensive and couples investing significant sums themselves, it’s no surprise that practicality is shaping gift selection. While the percentage of couples adding at least one cash fund to their registry remains steady at 87%, we’re seeing a slight uptick in funds specifically for wedding costs, as well as major newlywed priorities like purchasing a home, renovating, and even paying down debts. It’s a reflection of how modern couples are thoughtfully planning for their future, celebrating their big day, and balancing multiple financial priorities.\n\nLet’s not forget the honeymoon fund—still the #1 cash fund. That’s no surprise, considering 96% of 2024 couples took a honeymoon, with 74% traveling outside of the U.S. \n\nAnd, here’s a major discrepancy that surprised even us: While 70% of couples say they’d rather receive a cash gift over anything else, only 54% of guests say they prefer to give a cash gift when attending a wedding. And even though 87% of couples add at least one cash fund to their Zola registry, a whopping 95% of couples wish it felt more acceptable to ask for a cash gift.\n\nClearly, while many couples are embracing cash funds, there’s still work to be done to normalize giving and receiving cash gifts. So, let us shout it from the rooftops—it’s completely, 100% okay (and normal) to ask for and give cash gifts!\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics 2025 5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2xRySRvsPpgqD1DRhvQ5mU/8e3130a00b4cb394f68de833ba2a357b/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_5.jpg)\n\n# Reimagining the rules\n\nAs much as modern couples want to do things their own way, there’s still a deep appreciation for traditions passed down through generations. There's a gray area between the idea that couples are completely moving away from the weddings of the past and the reality of how they’re choosing to celebrate their marriage and step into newlywed life. And sometimes, it’s okay to live in the gray—not everything has to shift all at once (or ever). Many traditions are beautiful, purposeful things that add meaning to the celebration and the marriage.\n\nHere are some traditions couples aren’t ready to move away from—or are still thoughtfully navigating:\n\n- __Handwritten thank-you cards:__ Despite the rise of digital tools and AI technology, 54% of couples think it should be less acceptable to send a digital thank you card and would prefer a handwritten one. When it comes to expressing gratitude, a personal touch still means a lot.\n- __Changing your last name:__ 66% of women who are marrying men are planning to change their last name, with 12% unsure and 6% blending names. When asked why, 76% of those who were planning to change their name stated it was simply because “I want to.” Another 57% said it feels like a celebration of their marriage. 20% however admitted that “It’s just what you do.” Only 16% said they’re definitely not planning to change their name. \n- __The engagement ring:__ While the way couples shop for rings has shifted—most now shop together—and ring styles are evolving, 98% of couples still believe the ring is a valuable tradition. In fact, 96% of couples said they do have an engagement ring, proving that this symbol of commitment remains timeless. Most of those who do not have a ring said they simply cannot afford it at this time. \n\nWith that said, there are a few expectations that couples would like to shatter (or at least, not be beholden to or pressured by):\n\n- __Expectation for the bride’s family to pay:__ When asked what they’d like to change about the wedding journey, 31% of couples said they want to move away from the old-fashioned expectation that the bride’s family should foot the entire bill. This tradition doesn’t reflect reality for most: Only 30% of weddings with a bride follow this model, while 63% of couples receive financial support from both families, showing that a more balanced approach is becoming the new norm.\n- __One partner does all the planning:__ While 85% of couples lean on their partner as their wedding planning rock, the reality is that one person often takes on the bulk of the work. Among women marrying men, 81% report that their male partner has spent zero, barely any, or noticeably less time planning. For LGBTQ+ couples, the gap is smaller but still present, with 68% reporting that one partner shoulders more of the workload. Notably, 97% of couples think it should be more acceptable for both partners to have an equal say in the wedding vision—a shift we’re all rooting for.\n- __Declining an invite:__ Weddings are magical, but they’re also expensive—not just to throw, but to attend, travel to, and especially to be a part of. Our survey found that 91% of couples wish it felt more acceptable to decline a wedding invite. Similarly, 90% want it to be easier to say no to a pre-wedding event like a shower or bach party, and 75% would like it to feel less awkward to decline an invitation to join the wedding party.\n\nAs we look ahead to 2025, one thing remains crystal clear: Modern couples are still dreaming big, but planning in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. They’re striking the perfect balance between personal touches and practical decisions, making choices that reflect the priorities—and budget realities—that matter most to them. \n\nSo here’s to celebrating love on your terms—because that will always be what’s truly “in.”","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Zola surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about why, what and how they’re planning for their weddings. Here’s a deeper dive into all of the data. ","title":"2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report Data Deep Dive","slug":"2024-wedding-trends-zolas-first-look-report-data-deep-dive","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"List","type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Everything you need to know to find values-based wedding vendors.","title":"How to Find Wedding Vendors Who Align With Your Values","slug":"how-to-find-wedding-vendors-who-align-with-your-values","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3ho80jYkfxvlen4cZhEeYI/d0f1fdb7a284321b849e3acc232b699a/01.jpeg","altText":"How to Find Wedding Vendors Who Align With Your Values"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"While it may not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, setting your wedding budget is essential. We’ll break down the typical expenses, guide you through the entire process from start to finish, and tell you where you can save money. ","title":"How to Set Your Wedding Budget Step by Step","slug":"how-to-set-your-wedding-budget","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XhGxWHyRGrUPWWVgkBzic/91d8435955228875ec57fdf5f974f5bc/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Green/bluescale image of jar of money tipped over with change spilling out"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here’s a look into where our 2023 couples’ love stories started. ","title":"Top Places Couples Actually Met Each Other","slug":"the-places-that-couples-getting-married-met","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UdOtpzW1eVx17R4Uu6ceJ/7b2d9ed3b95b2447ef1f048e1f4ef89b/1116_EA_FLR-Places_Couples_Met.jpg","altText":"Top Places Couples Actually Meet Each Other"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2025-01-03T21:35:10.308Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"the-first-look-report-2024","title":"2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report","excerpt":"For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2023-12-11T14:00:02.857Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4qaDxRDaZIFumTJMU0OCU0/a94c58af33b02b315520ebd62fe435c4/1205_FLR2024_EA_header_data_1080.png","altText":"Just married couple sitting outside their apartment"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- “Will you marry me” is becoming a formality as couples become even more confident taking steps towards the aisle before the question is popped. 89% of couples have started wedding planning before getting engaged.\n- In 2024, love does cost a thing, with the average cost of a wedding hitting a high of over $30,000.\n- Weddings are full-on social media affairs, with celebs/influencers as a source of inspo increasing 48% since last year. Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge’s celebration was the most thumb-stopping.\n- Couples are embracing tech, but unplugging on their big day. 86% of couples are making choices based on social media, and 19% are likely or already using an AI tool; at the same time, 75% are embracing phone-free weddings. \n- Next gen couples are mixing up their wedding style - embracing multiple outfit changes, mismatched wedding party attire, and diamond alternatives as a way to make the wedding their own\n- From sharing the mental load of wedding planning to shedding expectations around wedding diets, modern couples continue to push our industry into a better and more inclusive future. \n","body":"We surveyed close to 7,000 couples with wedding dates in 2024 about what, why, and how they’re planning for the coming year. What did we find out?\n\nIn 2024, there are many reasons couples want to have a wedding, but most of all, they want to have the fun party that they’ve been dreaming about forever. And, party is a good word to describe what 2024 has in store with guest lists stretching to 145, inspiration stemming from influencers, couples selecting venues based on vibe, and splurging on the best photographers to capture every memory. \n\nBut, in response to a challenging economy, love does cost a thing. Weddings in 2024 do come with an average higher price tag than last year, with the average cost of a wedding hitting above the $30,000 mark. \n\nOur report also identifies how evolving trends and consumer behavior has influenced the journey – couples are using Artificial Intelligence tools to help with planning, incorporating inspo from viral celeb #WeddingToks, selecting off-peak dates to save money, and registering for even more cash funds as they cover many wedding costs themselves. Expect garden parties galore, short-personalized ceremonies officiated by loved ones, loads of late night snacks, mismatched wedding party style, multi-day parties, and, overall, a huge amount of energy, authenticity and love. \n\n## Wedding Planning, Pre-Engagement\n\n__Couples getting married in 2024 may just be the next generation of wedding planners, and they've truly enjoyed the journey.__ 18% of couples describe their experience deciding on wedding details to be so amazing, they would do it for a living. With carte blanche to get creative, access to free tools that allow you to plan from anywhere, and wedding experts to guide you along the way - what’s not to love?\n\nIn fact, many couples are so into planning, they aren’t waiting for a ring to get started. And, why should they? __89% of couples are beginning the wedding planning process before formally getting engaged, and of these, 17% took, what is in our professional opinion, a very concrete step in their journey before any question was popped.__ They either: booked a wedding venue together, created their wedding website, shopped for wedding attire, created their wedding registry, asked loved ones to join their wedding party, and/or sent out a save-the-date. Yes, we said booked, not just looked. __297 couples booked their wedding venue before officially, as society defines it, getting engaged.__\n\n## Getting Engaged\n\nHere’s what this tells us about today’s engaged generation – just as modern couples are very purposeful in deciding to have a wedding event, they are also very purposeful in how they are getting engaged and planning every day along the way. The ring, while still bursting with meaning and likely lab-grown, is not the first step towards forever. The majority of couples have been together for on average 5 years, already live together (88%), have combined their finances (40%), and have discussed exactly when they’ll be getting engaged (25%). We also can’t discount that 100% of these couples have been together for what can only be described as a memorable half a decade including a global pandemic, a teetering economy, fights for human rights and marriage equality. 2024 couples are simply practical, with eyes on the prize – each other – and we’re here for it. \n\n![1205 FLR2024 EA inline graphic 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/35To7Ce5jOiUhvQPzZnRSd/ac158c9f032ca1b59c2a7e349da68541/1205_FLR2024_EA_inline_graphic_1.jpg)\n\n## How Does it Feel to Plan a Wedding?\n\nEven with the best intent, __it’s statistically significant to say that wedding planning is a glass case of emotion. Exciting was by far the most common feeling used to describe wedding planning.__ But, a comparable number of couples told us wedding planning is simultaneously stressful and fun, special and overwhelming, full of love and unexpected, and inspiring while absurd. \n\nWhat part of the process is most overwhelming? If we had to guess, we might point to the __44% of couples who are experiencing family drama while wedding planning,__ or the __39% who said their parents/guardians have made the process *more* difficult.__ But, __the #1 pain point of the actual to-do list as ranked by couples continues to be creating and managing their budgets,__ followed by creating and managing their guest lists, and booking their vendors. This is no surprise, considering __90% of 2024 couples are contributing financially to their weddings, with 30% covering every penny themselves.__ Luckily, Zola has innovative tools like a [budget tracker](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget), a [guest list manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests), and a [vendor marketplace](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to help couples with all three of these pain points. \n\n![Team Z Tip 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1qhBnmVcYN5UVrFGH3g27q/bc7af33008a3a164515b5d60e15579e3/Team_Z_Tip_1.jpg)\n\n## 2024 Wedding Trends\n\nNow, onto the most fun stuff besides the parties themselves– a definitive look at the emerging trends for 2024. \n\n - Celeb wedding content is getting more than 15 minutes of fame. __In comparison to 2023, 48% more couples with weddings coming in 2024 have been directly influenced by influencer weddings. One couple broke the internet in 2023 – Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge received 48% of the votes for the ‘most influential wedding of the year’,__ followed by Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin, and Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens. To-be-weds simply loved watching Sofia’s “relatable” yet sophisticated GRWM content leading up to her wedding. And, the duo’s embrace of party vibes clearly made an impact.\n- As the next generation walks down the aisle, social media is becoming even more crucial. __92% of Gen-Zers said that social media is an essential part of their planning process, the highest percentage of any generation.__ Pinterest remains the #1 source of wedding inspo overall, but the second slot is caught in a generational battle between Gen-Zers who’re all about #WeddingTok, and millennials who turn to Instagram for their daily dose of wedding planning. \n- __Garden wedding style is in full bloom.__ In fact, it’s the #2 wedding style of 2024, only behind classic, with 13% of couples describing their wedding to be garden-inspired.\n- Speaking of gorgeous green-like garden parties, __we predict green to be the wedding color of the year.__ Beyond white, green is the most popular color of Zola wedding paper ordered for 2024 weddings. Wedding invites with green shades like sage, emerald, forest, khaki, mint, olive and basil are up by 81%. Blue, and specifically shades such as sky, are a close maid of honor. \n- __Artificial Intelligence (AI) has officially landed in weddings,__ and it shouldn’t be so surprising that Zola couples are quick to jump on emerging technology. __7% of couples admit to already using at least one AI tool while 11% are planning to incorporate it into wedding planning.__ 36% are considering it, but not sure yet. In total, this equates to 54% who said yes or maybe, vs. 46% who are unlikely to use AI. \n- The party vibe lends itself to personalization and to a much larger shift – the secularization of weddings. For the second consecutive year, __more than ½ of weddings will be officiated by loved ones, and a significant portion of couples, 28%, are having religion-free weddings.__ It is widely documented that younger generations are less likely to identify with a religious group. \n- Everybody is invited to the welcome party this year. __Compared to 2023, we saw a 32% jump in the number of couples who are having a bash the day before the day.__ We love this trend because a welcome party is the perfect opportunity to greet guests before the wedding itself, and get some formal hello’s out of the way before the big day. \n- Welcome parties are especially nice for guests who have traveled long distances, and in __2024 destination weddings are making a comeback as 36% of events require guests to travel by plane, train, or very long automobile ride.__ This includes 8% of weddings that are planned internationally, and 28% of weddings that are planned within the U.S. but far enough away from the majority of guests. Compared to 2023 these are significant year-over-year increases of 34% and 55% respectively. __On the flip side, wedding guests will have an easy drive to 64% of weddings.__\n\n## What's In, What's Out\n\n__Couples also took to the “polls” to settle some very hot button issues__. A few first looks: wedding hashtags, donut walls and dessert tables, bouquet tosses, and long ceremonies are decidedly “out” while diamond alternatives, pearls, outfit changes, kid-free weddings and mismatched wedding party attire are very “in”. A few debates remain too close to call including required guest dress-code, elaborate exits and choreographed first dances. \n\n![1205 FLR2024 EA inline graphic 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/K4cpAbZr8hdic2ob29rXt/32bf6d206fdfa895b5cd24bcb7110cab/1205_FLR2024_EA_inline_graphic_2.jpg)\n\n## Wedding Cost and Budget Trends\n\nAs much as we wish hashtags and dress-codes were the biggest sources of stress during the process, we know planning a wedding can be a minefield – both financially and emotionally. __In 2024, the average cost of a wedding will increase from 2023 ([link](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding)), hiking above the $30,000 mark as more couples than last year budget between the $30k - $40k and $40k - $50k buckets.__ While this number may set off sticker shock, economic changes have impacted the cost of goods and services across many industries. In 2023, 83% of Zola wedding vendors reported that the cost to run their business had been driven up by inflation.* \n\nWith the average cost of a wedding going up, couples are finding creative ways to save, and spend wisely. The #1 reason Zola couples choose digital save-the-dates is because they are completely free and easy to send. 56% of couples thought budget-first in selecting their wedding venue, and 14% chose an off-peak date, aka a not-summer-or-fall Saturday. 87% of couples are adding personalized cash funds to their Zola registries, using this money to not only help cover some wedding costs, but also post-wedding financial priorities such as the first purchase of a home. The number of couples adding cash funds is up 6% from 2023, which at the time we believed to be an all-time high. \n\n![Team Z Tip 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/31Q7OwGQa5uDUCOWHhkh0v/d9ec26a5ec1a457230dd9c8e3f675848/Team_Z_Tip_2.jpg)\n\nIt’s also important to call out that, even as we work alongside members of our industry everyday to celebrate and support all love, __we know the journey is not equitable for many couples including members of the LGBTQ+ community. In our own data there is a noticeable divide in comparing who contributes financially to sexual orientation.__ It’s true that the vast majority of all couples contribute financially, but it’s also true that __a larger percentage of LGBTQ+ couples, in comparison to heterosexual couples, are responsible for covering wedding costs:__ \n- 38% of LGBTQ+ couples are paying in full for their weddings in comparison to 27% of heterosexual couples. \n- 13% of heterosexual couples have their wedding costs completely covered by loved ones, while the same is only true for 6% of LGBTQ+ couples.\n\n## Sharing Wedding Planning Responsibilities\n\nAnd, the overall balance of wedding planning responsibilities is…very unbalanced. In fact, __for millennial couples, the stereotypical assumption that one person will take on the majority of wedding planning responsibilities is the #1 societal expectation they want to change__. In contrast to the financial data above, LGBTQ+ couples generally have a more positive experience sharing wedding planning responsibilities equally. But, between women and men who are marrying each other there is a clear discrepancy about time spend:\n - __Only 1% of women feel their male partner spends more time wedding planning, but 35% of men said their female partner spends more time wedding planning.__\n - 7% of women feel their male partner spends equal time wedding planning, but 36% of men said they spend equal time planning. \n - 8% of women said their male partner helps them “literally zero”, but 0% of men with female partners responded this way. \n\nSeveral truths can exist here–regardless of identity, most people who opt into a lengthy wedding planning survey are likely very interested in wedding planning and/or are assuming a significant amount of responsibility during the process. While the data speaks for itself, it may also be true that the men who answered our survey are very much active participants in the process. \n\n## Societal Expectations \n\nAs much as we work to promote progress and inclusivity in the wedding industry, and watch it evolve alongside technology, social media, and consumer trends, the vast majority of couples, 83%, believe that at least one societal expectation is due for a change. For Gen-Z, toxic wedding diet culture and the expectation for the bride’s family to pay for the wedding rank just slightly above the imbalance of responsibilities. For many couples who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, gendered wedding parties, being “given away” and representation of weddings in media and popular culture beg for further disruption. \n\n![1205 FLR2024 EA inline graphic 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7JPksD56HFWQ7RjN9UXyZk/f29fba7b13f37cd940a7654cb00c2616/1205_FLR2024_EA_inline_graphic_3.jpg)\n\nThrough it all, couples are there for each other, and that’s what it’s all about. __For most to-be-weds (79%), their partner is their absolute rock for every day along the way.__ After the fun party that is a 2024 wedding, 87% of couples are using their cash funds to help pay for their dream honeymoon. They’re prioritizing purchasing a home together, starting a family, paying off debts, and simply taking a breather to enjoy married life. \n\n__Want to see all the data? Visit our all-the-data breakdown [here](https://zola.com/expert-advice/2024-wedding-trends-zolas-first-look-report-data-deep-dive), and contact press@zola.com for any media inquiries.__\n","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Zola surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about why, what and how they’re planning for their weddings. Here’s a deeper dive into all of the data. ","title":"2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report Data Deep Dive","slug":"2024-wedding-trends-zolas-first-look-report-data-deep-dive","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"List","type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Just engaged and wondering what’s next? A lot goes into wedding planning, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are the must-do to-dos after getting engaged.","title":"Just Engaged? Here’s What To Do Next!","slug":"to-dos-after-you-get-engaged","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6KWedC7RqcjzNqK8zy0LoU/286c6acfc830a30a9ac4d274ebf14501/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Illustration graphic of an engagement ring box with a wedding ring and shine marks to indicate sparkle"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Everything you need to know to find values-based wedding vendors.","title":"How to Find Wedding Vendors Who Align With Your Values","slug":"how-to-find-wedding-vendors-who-align-with-your-values","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3ho80jYkfxvlen4cZhEeYI/d0f1fdb7a284321b849e3acc232b699a/01.jpeg","altText":"How to Find Wedding Vendors Who Align With Your Values"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"While it may not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, setting your wedding budget is essential. We’ll break down the typical expenses, guide you through the entire process from start to finish, and tell you where you can save money. ","title":"How to Set Your Wedding Budget Step by Step","slug":"how-to-set-your-wedding-budget","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XhGxWHyRGrUPWWVgkBzic/91d8435955228875ec57fdf5f974f5bc/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Green/bluescale image of jar of money tipped over with change spilling out"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here’s a look into where our 2023 couples’ love stories started. ","title":"Top Places Couples Actually Met Each Other","slug":"the-places-that-couples-getting-married-met","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UdOtpzW1eVx17R4Uu6ceJ/7b2d9ed3b95b2447ef1f048e1f4ef89b/1116_EA_FLR-Places_Couples_Met.jpg","altText":"Top Places Couples Actually Meet Each Other"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-12-12T19:02:27.149Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"2024-wedding-trends-zolas-first-look-report-data-deep-dive","title":"2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report Data Deep Dive","excerpt":"Zola surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about why, what and how they’re planning for their weddings. Here’s a deeper dive into all of the data. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2023-12-11T14:06:50.832Z","heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- __The Pre-Planning Journey:__ Couples are more confident taking real wedding planning steps before technically getting engaged. 89% have started wedding planning before getting engaged, with some going so far as to pick their date and book their venue. \n- __The Inspo:__ Celebs/influencers as a source of inspiration increased 48% in comparison to last year. And, 92% of Gen-Zers said that social media is an essential part of their planning process. \n- __2024 Wedding Trends:__ Casual, garden-style weddings usher in green as the color-of-the-year. Welcome parties and destination weddings make a comeback. And, while Artificial Intelligence officially lands in weddings and couples embrace tech, 75% will have phone-free weddings. \n- __The Average Cost of a Wedding:__ In 2024 the average cost of a wedding is hitting a high of over $30,000. Over 90% of couples are financially contributing to their wedding events. \n- __Societal Expectations:__ The vast majority, 83% of couples, believe that at least one, if not many, societal expectations surrounding the wedding planning process are still due for a change. \n","body":"Here’s a closer look at alllllllll of the data that informed our [2024 First Look Report](https://zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024). \n\n## Pre-Engagement and Getting Engaged\n\nCouples this year want to have a fun party that they’ve always dreamed about, and they aren’t waiting to start the planning. With many couples together 5+ years, living together and combining finances, 89% are taking steps towards the aisle before the question is popped. And, engagement timelines have shrunk back to pre-pandemic lengths of about 1-1 ½ years. \n\n__Why are you having a wedding (i.e. why are you hosting a celebration of your marriage?) Please select all that apply.__ \n- 65.49% - We want a fun party \n- 54.21% - I/we have always dreamed about it \n- 50.27% - We want to demonstrate our love for each other \n- 44.31% - It means a lot to us\n- 28.54% - Our families want us to \n- 22.64% - It’s tradition / everyone we know did it \n- 19.16% - For spiritual / religious / cultural meaning \n- 9.83% - Because society says that’s what you do \n- 2.63% - We did not really want to have a wedding \n- 2.05% - I don’t know\n- 4.14% - Other \n\n__How long will you have been engaged by the time you get married?__ \n- 1.99% - Between 1-6 months \n- 13.26% - Between 7-11 months \n- 50% - between 12-18 months\n- 16.35% - between 19-23 months \n- 13.67% - 2 years \n- 2.56% - 3 years \n- 2.05% - between 4 - 10 years \n- 0.27% - over 10 years \n\n__How long will you have been with your partner by the time you get married?__ \n- 1.63% - 1 year\n- 9.55% - 2 years \n- 15.42% - 3 years \n- 15.77% - 4 years \n- 15.47% - 5 years \n- 11.73% - 6 years\n- 10% - 7 years \n- 6.58% - 8 years \n- 4.82% - 9 years \n- 8.56% - 10 or more years \n\n__The wedding planning activities couples do BEFORE getting engaged__ \n- 25.43% - Discussed when you would get engaged\n- 18.73% - Shopped for rings WITH your partner \n- 10.86% - Created a wedding moodboard \n- 9.14% - Shopped for rings WITHOUT your partner\n- 7.75% - Discussed the budget for your wedding \n- 4.11% - Decided on your wedding date\n- 3.68% - Toured a wedding venue \n- 2.60% - Started your wedding website \n- 2.39% - BOOKED a wedding venue \n- 1.72% - Shopped for wedding attire\n- 1.48% - Created your wedding registry \n- 1.06% - “proposed” to your wedding party \n- 0.26% - Sent out a save the date \n- 10.78% - None of the above \n\n__Before getting married you and your partner will have…__ \n- 87.57% - lived together \n- 40.27% - combined finances \n- 26.07% - bought a home\n- 23.18% - gone through any form of couples therapy or pre-marital counseling \n- 21.43% - made another big purchase (e.g a car) \n- 15.72% - shared debt\n- 9.89% - broken up and gotten back together \n- 8.91% - had child(ren) (together or separate) \n- 6.26% - signed a prenuptial agreement \n- 6.16% - been in a previous marriage\n- 3.54% - none of the above\n\n## Wedding Planning Decisions and Feelings\n\n2024 couples are enjoying the ride. Most find the planning process to be overall enjoyable, with 18% reporting that their experience has been absolutely amazing. 64% of couples are planning to have local affairs, while 36% are planning destination weddings. When it comes to selecting the venue, couples care most about ambiance / vibe, and budget, of course. \n\n__How has wedding planning been for you so far?__\n- 53.16% - Overall enjoyable \n- 27.09% - It’s not my favorite, but I’m figuring it out \n- 17.79% - Amazing - I absolutely love all the decisions and details and could do this for a living \n- 1.88% - I hate it - want to delegate everything \n- 0.08% - I haven’t been participating at all \n\n__Where the wedding is taking place__\n- 8.84% - Very, very local (in the spot where the majority of our guests live)\n- 55.06% - Local (most guests able to travel by car) \n- 28.27%- Domestic destination (within the U.S, requires longer travel for many) \n- 7.69% - International destination \n- .13% - Not sure yet \n\n__What are / were the top 3 priorities when it comes to selecting your venue?__\n- 57.34% - ambiance / vibe of the location \n- 55.81% - inline with our budget \n- 31.83% - has outdoor space\n- 28.12% - local / convenient for most guests \n- 25.94% - It’s a location with significance for me and/or my partner (i.e. where one of us grew up, etc.) \n- 24.88% - has covered / indoor space for weather \n- 18.41% - guest capacity \n- 15.23% - great for photography \n- 9.89% - flexible vendor list (i.e. able to book any caterer, florist, etc.) \n- 9.66% - had amazing reviews online and/or from other couples \n- 4.91% - payment options \n- 1.07% - our wedding planner recommended the location \n- 5.64% - other \n\n__Which wedding-specific events are you planning? (Select all that apply)__ \n- 97.09% - Reception \n- 89.31% - Ceremony (not at a courthouse)\n- 4.65% - Courthouse ceremony \n- 67.52% - Rehearsal dinner \n- 51.15% - Bach party \n- 39.36% - Wedding shower \n- 31.90% - Welcome party \n- 29.02% - Wedding after-party \n- 22.94% - Goodbye brunch \n- 4.11% - Specific cultural event \n- 15.50% - Engagement party \n- 2.95% - Elopement \n- 1.47% - Other\n\n__How did you select your wedding date?__ \n- 33.72% - Based on availability of our preferred wedding venue / vendors \n- 14.24% - Based on availability of our friends and family \n- 13.80% - A date that is off-peak to save money \n- 11.84% - A date that is symbolic to our relationship \n- 9.54% - A date that is easy to remember \n- 2.22% - Based on a culturally lucky or auspicious date \n- 1.20% - A loved one’s anniversary \n- 0.76% - Based on astrology \n- 12.69% - other \n\n__What words would you use to describe wedding planning?__ \n- 66.98% - Exciting \n- 52.50% - Stressful\n- 49.78% - Fun \n- 47.70% - Special\n- 46.64% - Overwhelming \n- 31.69% - Full of love \n- 30.93% - Surprising / unexpected \n- 26.6% - Grateful \n- 22.76% - Joyful \n- 19.08% - Exhausting \n- 18.65% - Nerve-wracking\n- 15.52% - Inspired \n- 12.51% - Absurd / ridiculous\n- 11.46% - Frustrating \n- 10.71% - Chill \n- 10.70% - Amusing / funny\n- 8% - Neutral \n- 3.43% - Disappointing \n- 1.98% - Unhinged \n- 1.85% - Other (mainly callouts for the word “expensive”) \n\n## Pain Points That Accompany Wedding Planning\n\nWhile couples feel pretty prepared to begin the planning process, they can’t be prepared for the sheer number of decisions that come with the territory. They also need support managing their budgets and guest lists. \n\n__How prepared did you feel to plan your wedding before you started?__ \n- 37.99% - Pretty prepared, but there were some things I didn’t realize \n- 33.53% - A little prepared, I had to do some research \n- 21.91% - Not at all prepared! \n- 6.58% - Super prepared, nothing surprised me \n\n__What didn’t you feel prepared for?__ \n- 69.46% - The sheer number of decisions \n- 50.09% - Managing a budget\n- 49.61% - Managing the guest list \n- 39.49% - Family / friend drama \n- 38.44% - The amount I’d have to talk about getting married with friends, family and strangers \n- 37.78% - Vendor outreach and hiring \n- 36.26% - Setting a budget \n- 32.38% - Vendor negotiations / contracts \n- 22.06% - Discussing our finances\n- 10.57% - The commitment that comes with it \n- 2.90% - Other\n\n__What have been the biggest pain points during your wedding planning process?__ \n- 45.43% - Creating / managing our budget \n- 35.34% - Creating our guest list \n- 20.38% - Choosing other vendors \n- 17.52% - Finding wedding inspiration that feels like you \n- 13.67% - Picking out our wedding decor (flowers, balloons, etc.) \n- 10.53% - Deciding who to add to our wedding party \n- 9.92% - Booking our venue\n- 6.42% - Saying “yes” to wedding attire \n- 4.96% - Creating our playlist \n- 4.41% - Picking out / designing our save the dates or invites\n- 3.66% - Sharing the news with family & friends \n- 3.63% - Creating our wedding registry \n- 2.26% - Picking our date \n- 2.33% - Building our wedding website \n- 3.64% - Deciding on our menu \n- 0.98% - Writing thank you notes \n\n## Wedding Budgets and Spend in 2024\n\nThe average cost of a wedding in 2024 will hit a high of over $30,000+ as more couples than last year budget between $30k-$50k. In parallel, more couples are covering their own wedding costs by saving up and optimizing smartly. This isn’t to say that couples are unable to splurge as they remain willing to spend on their photographer, venue and open bar. \n\n__What is your wedding budget?__ \n- 3.45% - $5,000 or less \n- 8.61% - $5,000 - $10,000 \n- 10.84% - $10,000 - $15,000\n- 12.27% - $15,000 - $20,000 \n- 17.53% - $20,000 - $30,000 \n- 13.17% - $30,000 - $40,000 \n- 10.65% - $40,000 - $50,000 \n- 10.92% - $50,000 - $75,000 \n- 5.53% - $75,000 - $100,000 \n- 4.03% - $100,000 or more \n- 3.01% - prefer not to answer \n\n__Here’s how many guests couples are inviting to their weddings this year:__ \n- 0.22% - Completely eloping \n- 0.10% - less than 10 \n- 1.86% - 10-30 guests \n- 4.33% - 30-50 guests \n- 7.41% - 50-75 guests \n- 16.61% - 75-100 guests\n- 33.51% - 100 - 150 guests \n- 22.82% - 150 - 200 guests \n- 11.07% - 200 - 300 guests \n- 1.85% - 300 - 500 guests \n- 0.22% - 500+ guests\n\n__Are you and your partner contributing to the cost of your wedding?__ \n- 59.97% - Yes - we are contributing to the cost but not paying for it in full \n- 26.92% - Yes - we are completely covering the cost ourselves \n- 12.49% - No - our wedding cost is being covered by loved ones \n- 1.01% - No, other \n\n__How are you financing your wedding? Please select all that apply.__ \n- 50.37% - I / we saved up for years before getting engaged \n- 31.95% - We are optimizing credit cards (using points, taking out new credit cards, etc.) \n- 16.69% - Adding wedding elements to our registry (i.e. cash fund for photographer fees, etc.) \n- 4.94% - We have taken out a loan \n- 1.42% - Crowdsourcing / funding \n- 20.27% - Other \n\n__Who else is contributing to the cost of your wedding? Please select all that apply.__ \n- 56.73% - My family \n- 41.92% - My partner’s family \n- 0.87% - Friends \n- 0.48% - Other (please specify) \n\n__What elements of your wedding are you most willing to splurge on? Please select up to 3__\n- 54.76% - Photographer \n- 42.60% - Open bar \n- 41.27% - Venue \n- 28.54% - Catering\n- 23.41% - Attire \n- 18.71% - Music \n- 11.46% - Flowers \n- 10.5% - Videographer \n- 9.6% - Beauty team \n- 9.54% - Reception experiences \n- 6.68% - Decor \n- 5.42% - Wedding planner \n- 3.14% - Cake / desert \n- 2.61% - Late night snack \n- 2.13% - Venue rentals \n- 1.11% - Other\n- 1.05% - None of the above \n\n## How Couples are Personalizing Their Weddings\n\nEspecially since couples are spending so much money on their wedding events, they really do care about look and feel. Couples want to have even more fun, energetic, inclusive weddings this year that are also less traditional and fancy. \n\n| | Less | No Change | More |\n| ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- |\n| Unique/Different | 3.20% | 33.93% | 62.87% |\n| Traditional | 43.63% | 38.02% | 18.36% |\n| Emotional | 9.61% | 49.46% | 40.94% |\n| Religious | 57.62% | 28.25% | 14.13% |\n| Fancy | 30.43% | 45.40% | 24.17% |\n| Casual | 33.13% | 42.55% | 24.33% |\n| Fun | 0.34% | 13.76% | 85.90% |\n| Welcoming of all | 2.03% | 26.71% | 71.27% |\n| Reflection of values. | 1.22% | 30.34% | 68.43% |\n| Energetic | 2.33% | 29.77% | 67.90% |\n| Chill | 12.14% | 50.39% | 37.47% |\n| Authentically Us | 0.34% | 13.13% | 86.54% |\n\n__How are you making your wedding feel more personal to who you are?__\n- 52.00% - Having a friend / family member marry us \n- 31.62% - Making sure our wedding is an inclusive space \n- 28.09% - Having a religion-free wedding \n- 22.07% - Picking a specific theme that is super “us” \n- 21.82% - Catering that suits our likes / dietary preferences \n- 21.32% - Choosing vendors & businesses who support our values \n- 14.06% - Thrifting or sustainably sourcing our wedding look(s) / elements \n- 15.79% - Combining our religions / cultural traditions \n- 15.69% - Trying to cut down on waste / be eco-friendly \n- 13.32% - Breaking from wedding party gender stereotypes \n- 8.43% - Incorporating our children into our celebration \n- 5.99% - Wearing non-traditional or unexpected attire \n- 4.76% - Dry / alcohol free wedding \n- 4.66% - giving back to charity in some way \n- 6.94% - None of the above \n- 5.07% - Other\n\n__On a scale of 1-4, how much do you care about how your wedding looks?__\n- 61.48% - 3, I know what I want but am flexible on some elements if need be \n- 18.36% - 2 , I am highly flexible on most elements \n- 17.53% - 4 I have strong opinions about every detail \n- 2.61% - 1, I am totally flexible on everything / have no strong opinions \n\n__How would you best describe your wedding style?__\n- 21.91% - Classic\n- 13.13% - Garden \n- 11.33% - Rustic \n- 9.97% - Modern \n- 8.23% - Minimalist \n- 6.32% - Whimsical \n- 4.61% - Beach / Tropical \n- 4.49% - Vintage \n- 4.09% - Bohemian \n- 3.33% - Glamorous \n- 2.66% - DIY \n- 0.91% - Anti-wedding wedding \n- 0.27% - Avant Garde \n- 1.65% - Specific theme \n- 0.03% - Futuristic \n- 7.07% - Other (please specify) \n\n## The Latest Wedding Trends\n\nOut with the old, in with the new. The next generation of couples is mixing up their wedding style - embracing multiple outfit changes, mismatched wedding party attire, and diamond alternatives as a way to make the wedding their own. Garter and bouquet tosses and wedding favors, on the other hand, are officially out. AI also officially lands in wedding planning as couples are quick to test this new technology. \n\n__Are you using, or considering using, any AI tools to support your wedding planning?__\n- 45.82% - Not likely, I’m not a big fan \n- 36.02% - Unsure, but haven’t ruled it out \n- 10.95% - Very likely, it can help tremendously \n- 7.22% - Yes! We’re already using at least 1 AI tool \n\n__How has or how will AI support your wedding journey? Please select all that apply__\n- 38.28% - With our wedding website \n- 33.97% - Writing thank you notes \n- 33.88% - Finding inspiration \n- 32.05% - Writing our vows \n- 28.66% - Creating schedules or programs \n- 25.18% - Writing toasts or speeches \n- 20.88% - Planning our honeymoon \n- 14.74% - Creating our playlist \n- 17.49% - Managing our budget \n- 6.59% - Other (please specify) \n\n__When it comes to wedding planning, which trends do you feel are very “in” and you love vs. going “out” and you would never have at your own wedding?__\n\n| | In | Out |\n| ---------- | ---------- | ---------- |\n| Wedding Hashtags | 33.47% | 66.53% |\n| Hiring a wedding content creator | 22.61% | 77.39% |\n| Elaborate wedding exists | 52.47% | 47.53% |\n| Long ceremonies | 7.89% | 92.11% |\n| First looks | 71.30% | 28.70% |\n| Bouquet toss | 31.66% | 68.34% |\n| Late night snacks | 84.79% | 15.21% |\n| Donut Walls | 27.03% | 72.97% |\n| Over-the-top dessert tables | 37.18% | 62.82% |\n| Wedding favors | 37.78% | 62.22% |\n| Outfit changes | 57.39% | 42.61% |\n| Multi-day events | 48.94% | 51.06% |\n| Phone-free “unplugged” weddings | 74.78% | 25.22% |\n| Signature cocktails | 84.16% | 15.84% |\n| Diamond alternatives and substitutes | 72.03% | 27.97% |\n| Film photography | 75.98% | 24.02% |\n| Required guest dress code | 45.65% | 54.35% |\n| Lace | 55.50% | 44.50% |\n| Pearls | 62.62% | 37.38% |\n| Family / friend officiants | 86.97% | 13.07% |\n| Kid-free weddings | 13.07% | 20.51% |\n| Choreographed first dances | 42.06% | 57.94% |\n| Garter toss | 12.83% | 87.17% |\n| Highly personalized everything | 49.14% | 50.86% |\n| Neon signs | 50.91% | 49.09% |\n| Mis-matched bridesmaid dresses | 82.95% | 17.05% |\n| Wedding party intros/dances | 51.92% | 48.08% |\n\n## Relationships Along The Journey\n\nIt’s no surprise that couples are there for each other every day along the way.\n\n__Who is your rock during the planning process:__\n- 79.32% - My partner \n- 40.71% - myself \n- 38.68% - my parents / guardians\n- 36.70% - my best friends\n- 16.10% - my pet \n- 15.62% - my sibling \n- 11.11% - my married friends \n- 6.08% - my therapist \n- 5.76% - other family members\n- 4.80% - other engaged couples \n- 4.35% - social media \n- 3.68% - my coworkers \n- 3.58% - my wedding vendors\n- 2.33% - religious figure \n- 0.83% - my children \n- 3.13% - other \n\n__Has anybody caused MORE stress or made the planning process more difficult?__ \n- 39.29% - My parents / guardians \n- 39.63% - Other family members \n- 19.71% - Social media \n- 16.60% - My partner \n- 15.06% - Myself \n- 11.99% - Other (please specify) \n- 7.65% - My sibling \n- 7.40% - My wedding vendors \n- 6.77% - Other engaged couples \n- 6.45% - My best friends\n- 2.31% - My coworkers \n- 2.79% - My married friends\n- 1.76% - Religious figure \n- 0.50% - My children \n- 0.13% - My therapist \n- 0.95% - My pet\n\n__In choosing a spouse, how important to you is it that you share the same…__\n\n| |Not important|Somewhat important|Very important|\n| -------------------------|-------------| -----------------| ---------- |\n| Values | 0.38% | 6.74% | 92.88% |\n| Religion | 36.14% | 34.20% | 29.66% |\n| Race | 80.29% | 14.01% | 5.71% |\n| Style of upbringing | 24.52% | 52.45% | 23.04% |\n| Political views | 13.91% | 46.42% | 39.67% |\n| Vision for our family | 1.63% | 10.35% | 88.02% |\n| Education level | 27.50% | 47.52% | 24.98% |\n| Financial goals | 1.15% | 24.45% | 74.40% |\n| Salary range | 34.02% | 52.10% | 13.89% |\n| Career goals | 11.19% | 46.22% | 42.58% |\n| Sexual compatibility | 2.63% | 24.82% | 72.55% |\n\n## Wedding Registry Trends & Gifts\n\nMore couples than ever before, 87%, are planning to have cash funds on their registry this year. \n\n__Are you planning to have a wedding registry__ \n- 83% - Yes\n- 10.33% - No \n- 6.67% - Not sure \n\n__For couples who are planning to have a registry, are you planning to have any cash funds?__ \n*More couples than ever before plan to add at least one cash fund to their registry*\n- 86.62% - yes \n- 13.38% - no \n\n__What are you using your cash funds for__ \n- 86.77% - Honeymoon / travel \n- 37.26% - To purchase a home or move into a new home \n- 29.30% - To help us pay for our wedding\n- 17.66% - Home renovations / upgrades \n- 9.58% - For special date nights \n- 6.45% - To pay down other debt \n- 4.20% - For our pet or future pet \n- 3.94% - To pay for education or pay back student loans \n- 2.75% - For family planning (i.e. fertility treatments, adoption, etc.) \n- 2.67% - Other \n- 2.17% - To fund a hobby \n- 1.79% - Charity \n\n## The Influence of Influencers and Social Media\n\nSocial media is becoming an even more crucial part of the planning process. 90% of couples said that at least one planning platform has been indispensable for them. And while TikTok picks up steam with younger couples, Pinterest remains the #1 way for couples to find their wedding inspo. \n\n__Did you make any choices based on something you saw on social media?__\n- 85.91% - yes \n- 14.09% - no \n\n__Which influencer / celebrity wedding of 2023 inspired you the MOST?__\n- 47.95% - Sofia Richie and Elliot Grainge \n- 9.65% - Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin \n- 5.41% - Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens \n- The rest got extremely low results \n- 31.29% - other \n\n__Where are you getting your wedding inspo?__ \n- 77.04% - Pinterest \n- 55.89% - My own creativity / vision \n- 57.63% - Instagram \n- 41.28% - From other weddings I’ve been to\n- 38.39% - TikTok\n- 28.39% - From Zola \n- 24.88% - from my vendors \n- 15.08% - Google \n- 10.89% - Facebook \n- 10.79% - Wedding websites\n- 10.12% - From an online community of other engaged couples \n- 11.39% - Influencers / celebrities \n- 6.98% - Wedding magazines\n- 3.01% - YouTube \n- 1.52% - Other \n\n__Which social media platform is absolutely invaluable / crucial to your wedding planning process__ \n- 47.38% - Pinterest \n- 20.07% - Instagram\n- 16% - TikTok\n- 3.23% - Facebook\n- 1.81% - Reddit \n- 0.72% - YouTube \n- 0.25% - Discord\n- 0.15% - X \n- 0.12% - Threads \n- 10.25% - None, social media didn’t support me in planning \n\n__Can you please tell us how you’ve used different social media platforms during the planning process?__ \n\n| |Tiktok |Instagram|Facebook|Pinterest|Youtube| \n| ---------- | ----- | --------| -------| --------| ----- | \n| To find wedding hacks | 77.8% | 44.03% | 31.24% | 51.56% | 40.69%|\n| For wedding inspo | 77.4% | 79.83% | 37.8% | 97.57% | 39.26%| \n| To discover vendors | 17.37%| 53.06% | 41.56% | 15.02% | 12.03%| \n| To entertain me | 55.87%| 41.61% | 25.5% | 21.32% | 34.17%|\n| To take a planning break | 48.84%| 38.91% | 25.37% | 12.94% | 28.49%| \n| To follow other couples | 27.04%| 24.08% | 34.8% | 6.86% | 11.36%|\n| Other | 2.37% | 1.81% | 11.61% | 2.396% | 7.52% | \n\n## Societal Expectations Around Weddings That Are Due For Change\n\n83% of couples do feel that at least one societal expectation surrounding the wedding journey is due for a change.\n\n__Are you experiencing any of the following challenges while wedding planning? Select all that apply__\n- 44.50% - Family drama \n- 29.63% - Pressure to look a certain way \n- 20.16% - Grief / loss of a loved one\n- 15.55% - Friend drama \n- 14.16% - Lack of support from your family \n- 7.85% - Lack of support from your partner \n- 1.76% - Discrimination / judgment based on sexual orientation \n- .90% - Discrimination / judgment based on gender identity \n- 6.80% - Discrimination / judgment based on body type \n- 4.44% - Discrimination / judgment based on religion \n- 3.23% - Discrimination / judgment based on age \n- 0.33% - Discrimination / judgment based on disability \n- 1.28% - Discrimination / judgment based on a previous marriage \n- 25.10% - None of the above \n\n__If you could change or update anything about the wedding planning journey, what would you change? (select all that apply)__\n- 32.90% - Balance / assumptions around wedding planning responsibilities \n- 32.09% - Wedding diet culture \n- 30.94 - Bride's family paying for the wedding \n- 21.54% - Name changing / taking the partner’s last name\n- 20.64% - Representation of weddings in media / pop culture \n- 17.95% - Being “given away” / walked down the aisle \n- 11.26% - Gendered wedding parties \n- 10.26% - Sending handwritten thank you notes \n- 5.62% - Wearing white \n- 5.02% - The proposal process\n- 2.68% - The ring \n- 5.61% - Other (please specify) \n- 17.03% - nothing about the wedding journey needs to change \n\n__Can you estimate, on average, how many hours per week you spend planning your wedding?__ \n- 33.94% - Between 1-2 hours \n- 33.21% - Between 2-4 hours \n- 13.94% - Between 4-6 hours \n- 12.06% - Less than 1 hour \n- 5.56% - More than six hours \n- 1.30% - Other (please specify) \n\n__Can you estimate, on average, how much time your PARTNER spends on wedding planning?__ \n- 51.01% - Less than me \n- 23.64% - Barely helping with the planning\n- 8.20% - Equal to me \n- 7.69% - Almost equal to me \n- 7.20% - Zero \n- 2.26% - More than me \n\n## Newlywed Priorities\n\nAfter the wedding comes… many other huge priorities. \n\n__After you’re married, what will be your biggest priority?__ \n- 29.96% - Buying a home \n- 18.84% - Starting a family \n- 15.02% - Paying off debts (including student loans) \n- 10.95% - Nothing - just taking a breather to enjoy married life \n- 8.79% - Moving ahead in my / our careers \n- 7.11% - Saving for travel \n- 3.42% - Moving to another city \n- 2.59% - Completing education \n- 0.98% - Getting a pet \n- 0.86% - Buying a car \n- 1.46% - Other (please specify) \n","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.","title":"2024 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report","slug":"the-first-look-report-2024","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4qaDxRDaZIFumTJMU0OCU0/a94c58af33b02b315520ebd62fe435c4/1205_FLR2024_EA_header_data_1080.png","altText":"Just married couple sitting outside their apartment"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wondering what to do with the 1000+ wedding posts you've saved all across the web? We're bringing you a complete social media guide to organizing all your wedding inspo, plus tips for creating your own content on your wedding day.","title":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo—From TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and More","slug":"how-to-organizing-your-wedding-inspo","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/z9DWVAE3WdfpssBLpBuXz/825200d358e2b52111ae5673a626b5a1/1116_EA_FLR-Guide_To_Organizing_Inspo.jpg","altText":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding is about more than just the wedding day—there are many moments along the way that couples also enjoy and celebrate. Here are the best parts of wedding planning, including ideas for making these milestones extra special. ","title":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones","slug":"ways-to-celebrate-all-your-wedding-planning-milestones","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/HqYagVdMFUhfHOc5QU1MP/af69eee7ffd274608eb0f128b06765fd/1116_EA_FLR-Ways_To_Celebrate.jpg","altText":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding can feel like a rollercoaster, so we asked 2023 engaged couples to share the best parts of making it to the big day ","title":"The Best Parts of Wedding Planning, According to Real Couples","slug":"the-best-parts-of-wedding-planning","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/0oxBMk8whh92YiB9DgWw1/2752430b32e1f1588cdbc9604200be6d/1116_EA_FLR-Best_Parts_of_Planning.jpg","altText":"The Best Parts of Wedding Planning, According to Real Couples"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-09-29T18:58:48.572Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"the-first-look-report-2023","title":"The First Look Report 2023","excerpt":"Zola’s annual guide to wedding trends and budgets. Here's what's new in 2023...","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2022-12-05T16:07:13.700Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2zcJgr4dnJctFWU9OddY94/3cbc6c57a171d66cd58708ec901913cd/1116_EA_FLR-Main_FLR_Report.jpg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023 Hero"},"heroCredit":"Adam Griffin Photo","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Matchmaker, matchmaker, couples are making their match based on values, lifelong goals and sexual compatibility. \n- After spending the duration of their 18-24 month engagement attending celebrations for other people, 2023 couples have been inspired to differentiate their weddings from those of the past two years - expect unique, casual, and even less traditional weddings that feel truly authentic to the couples saying “we do”.\n- Speaking of inspiration, it’s endless, with social media playing an even bigger role in wedding planning than ever before, helping couples figure out their wedding style, making them feel excited, and providing them with a sense of community.\n- While inflation has made the cost for some wedding goods to increase, wedding budgets remain steady around $20k-$40k, meaning couples are continuing to prioritize what matters most to them in determining how to spend their $.","body":"__We asked over 4k Zola couples getting married in 2023 about what’s on their minds – what they’re planning, what they’re prioritizing, and what’s got them pumped.__\n\nAnd what we heard back was pretty interesting. These couples have been engaged for on average 2 years – longer than any group we’ve surveyed before. That means more time to plan the wedding they really want, and to celebrate even more of the mini-moments along their way to the big day. \n\nGood news: There’s no shortage of ideas. Couples are getting inspo — things they love and things they might do differently — from all the weddings they attended in the epic year for weddings that was 2022. Plus, with the rise of [#WeddingTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@zola) and Zola’s [online wedding planning community](https://www.zola.com/community/topic/general), they now have more places to gather, get ideas, and ask questions. For 2023 couples, it’s not about “keeping up with the Joneses,” it’s about creating unique, personalized, intentional, and memorable celebrations. \n\nMore good news: These couples are excited. We straight up asked them how they feel about wedding planning and they made it clear that this is a journey they feel enthusiastic about. They’ve shaken off preconceptions of what a wedding should be: __2023 couples know that, ultimately, the wedding is just one (really fun & special) part of the journey. And, there are many days and moments that they’re celebrating along the way. __\n\n## First comes love, and then, for most couples, comes a long list of milestones before marriage (including a longer-than-ever engagement). \n\nThe ongoing wedding boom means many venues and vendors booked up well in advance, so __2023 couples have been patiently waiting their turn for (on average, 18 - 24 months)__. For some added perspective, before the pandemic, the average engagement was about 12 months long. But hey, what’s a few extra months when over half (54%) of these couples have been together for 5+ years?\n\nAnd, couples haven’t just been waiting around to get their lives started; they've used this time practically, and they don’t feel like marriage absolutely must precede other life events. Aside from choosing each other, these couples have already ticked off some pretty major milestones together. Sure, they live together before the wedding. But, from combining finances and making huge purchases, to going to couples therapy, some even breaking up and getting back together, they’re riding the rollercoaster of life in a way that is just right for them.\n\n![FLR-Infographic-pre-engagement timeline](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3ceGzN2IEWBqnCpbZ6uqk9/70538bda2fc4684d8dc8940279788b0f/FLR-Infographic-pre-engagement_timeline.jpg)\n\n## For these couples, weddings aren’t just for the sake of tradition; weddings are a way for couples to be surrounded by their loved ones, represent who they are as a unit and demonstrate their love for each other.\n\n__2023 couples want their weddings to feel even less “traditional” (43%) than weddings of the previous few years.__ It’s not about the pomp and circumstance: They want to be married and have a wedding, yes, and they want those weddings to be representative of who they are and what their future together will be about. This year again, we see couples turning away from what they’re supposed to do and turning towards what they’re excited to do. \n\nOur data also shows subtle nuances in how this plays out for different generations. \n\n- Millennials and Zillennials ranked having a fun party with their loved ones as the #1 reason to have a wedding\n- Gen Z ranked because it means a lot to them and is something they’ve always dreamed about as their top reason\n\nThe majority of couples, regardless of age, also want to demonstrate their love for each other in the form of a wedding. Meanwhile, very few couples of any age are having a wedding just because they feel like society, tradition, or other people say they should. \n\n## Couples are looking to the future — when it comes to choosing a partner, background matters much less than shared values and vision.\n\n__Here’s what couples said was very important for their partner to share:__\n\n- Values \n- Vision for growing a family \n- Financial goals \n- Sexual compatibility \n\nSharing the same career goals, level of income and salary, political views and religion are important, but for almost all couples, these attributes rank much further below what’s listed above. \n\nAdditionally, race is no longer an important factor in choosing a partner: 85% stated that marrying a person of the same race is not important to them at all. This makes sense when you consider that rates of interracial marriage [continue to increase](https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2020/05/27/as-millennials-near-40-theyre-approaching-family-life-differently-than-previous-generations/#:~:text=Among%20married%20Millennials%2C%208%25%20of,all%20racial%20and%20ethnic%20groups.) from generation to generation. It simply doesn’t take precedence the way it did for many previous generations, and especially does not take precedence over those factors listed above. \n\nCouples' diverse backgrounds show up in their authentic wedding visions:\n- 14% are combining their religions and cultural traditions \n- 31% are having a religion-free wedding \n- 22% are purposefully choosing a wedding vendor team who aligns with their values. \n\n[![Team Z Tip 1 - Vendor Vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4f1qxUp2cPKVJrrpESclFc/d00678c3d28587ff75468077bf93a46f/Team_Z_Tip_1.jpg)](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors)\n\n## Although certain about who to marry, most couples reported also feeling unsure of where to begin: 60% feel overwhelmed by setting a budget and 54% don't know where to begin their vendor search.\n\nWhen it comes to when they’re wedding planning, these couples are using their free time — and some of their not-exactly-free time. While most couples are planning on the weekends and at night, 46% did admit to planning during work. We see you, we salute you. \n\nDespite 33% saying they feel like they’re planning “all the time,” they’re enjoying it together. __Half of 2023 couples said wedding planning has made their relationship stronger (45% said it didn’t have any impact on their relationship).__ They’ve also got big support systems around them. 77% said their partner has been their “rock” during the process, 18% said their pet is their tower of strength, and 5% have found an anchor in their therapist. Huh, not a bad ad for wedding planning.\n\n[![Team Z Tip 2 - Budget tracker](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6zQh9aCUnegIbvtjdH36wH/7083b0500b297e3688039c7e17e6a5df/Team_Z_Tip_2.jpg)](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/zola-wedding-registry-gifts/id852691916)\n\n## Inflation has increased some costs, but it has not changed overall budgets or wedding guest counts, so we know couples are spending $ with extra intention and thought. \n\n__The average wedding budget sits between $20,000 - $40,000 (the same as 2022), and guest lists fall between 100-150 (31%), and 150-200 (23%).__ Important to note: Most of these couples locked their venues and vendors in months ago, so many costs and contracts have been signed, sealed, delivered for quite some time. \n\nOK, so what are these couples prioritizing their spend on? 2023 couples are mainly willing to splurge on their memories: They want the perfect photographer and their ideal venue. \n\nIn terms of what they’re prioritizing less, compared to 2022, fewer couples marked attire as a “splurge” (down 20%). Makes sense when you consider the increased interest in upcycling: 19% want to thrift their wedding look and/or elements. And, as couples remain conscious of their budgets (and their guests!) amid rising costs, they’re also thinking in a cost-conscious way around hosting supplementary events such as bach parties and showers, to make them meaningful but without huge price tags. \n\n__The majority of couples continue to contribute to the payment of their wedding in some way.__ They’re also being smart about how to pay:\n\n- 29% are optimizing credit cards\n- 26% have saved for years prior to getting engaged\n- 24% are adding cash funds meant to supplement wedding costs to their registries \n\nSpeaking of cash funds, 81% have added cash funds to their registry, and they’re using them as an opportunity to ask for support on the many other financial responsibilities beyond their wedding:\n\n![FLR-budgets-cash funds ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/32UiKvz3iYaFry2iaBivoB/8abe0b5ef5997c0a29d863ea4d11b063/FLR-budgets-cash_funds_1080x720.jpg)\n\n## 2023 couples have spent the past year cheering on their loved ones at, on average, 5+ weddings, and 80% say they’ve been heavily influenced to make their celebrations even more unique. \n\nLike we said, these couples don’t see their wedding as an obligation — they are planning the weddings they want to attend. For the most part, __2023 couples want their weddings to feel more fun, authentic, and welcoming, and a reflection of their values, and less traditional, religious, and fancy.__ \n\nAnd that translates into some pretty interesting ways couples are reimagining their weddings. From having a friend or family member officiate, to breaking with gender stereotypes, picking a theme that feels authentically them, and even memorializing loved ones who’ve had an impact on their lives, they’re differentiating in many ways:\n\n![FLR-Infographic-new traditions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6p0zpfwRtjNsdUru8o54IN/8d24a5503e7f910644860de7272b5832/FLR-Infographic-new_traditions.jpg)\n\n## Social media has taken on new roles during the planning process, helping 71% of couples figure out their wedding style, making 48% feel even more excited, and providing 24% with a greater sense of community. \n\nWhile there used to be a few big resources for wedding inspo, (shoutout to Pinterest, the mood board OG that 75% of couples said is still a major source of inspo) there are now endless channels for couples to surf. \n\n#WeddingTok is rising fast to compete as a top resource, while 13% of couples are turning to online communities, such as [Zola’s community](https://www.zola.com/community/topic/general), to feel connected, supported, and get inspired. \n\nBeyond inspo, 49% credit TikTok as being there for them as a much-needed mental break and/or comic relief, and 23% said endlessly scrolling social media helped them to combat stress. Fortunately, only 13% said social media added pressure to do things a certain way or to a certain standard. \n\n__For 90%, social media plays a role on and around the big day__, with 29% admitting they'll overshare their planning and wedding pics for years to come (we would, too!), and 13% incorporating an actual social media plan into their wedding day timeline.\n\n[![Team Z Tip 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2obBUSMJWussaC4LajFkSm/2ffdfa75aa42565979ec7e622eb28f84/Team_Z_Tip_3.jpg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@zola)\n\n## After 2 years of planning, what will these weddings look & feel like? The answer: unexpected, local, non-traditional, and also yummy. \n\n__Love is in the air -__ 81% of 2023 venue inquiries on Zola’s platform are for completely outdoor, or covered outdoor venues. So, while beautiful, staple ballrooms venues are the most popular, we see that parks & garden venues come in as a close second as couples seek boho, natural vibes to fit the settings. Think wildflower bouquets, more casual-feeling events, and even celestial themes. Searches for farms, barns, and ranch venues on Zola have also increased 39% in the past year. \n\n__All the drama -__ The word “moody” is a top search term on Zola for 2023 weddings. How are couples incorporating this? In terms of color palettes, think dark, gorgeous shades like plum, emerald, gold, burgundy, maroon and rust that evoke true romance. Beyond the look and feel of that day, we also see this vibe creep into other vendor choices, such as couples are gravitating towards more dramatic and cinematic photography & videography. \n\n__Local romance -__ Also, remember we said that couples are having weddings to feel connected to their loved ones, so as ⅓ of couples are concerned about current travel industry troubles, 55% are choosing a venue local to where they currently live, and 18% are choosing a venue local to their hometown. 6% are selecting an international locale. \n\n__Full hearts, full bellies -__ Hot & fresh wedding food coming right up, with caterers supporting couples in their quest for creativity. In fact, 15% of couples are incorporating their own dietary preferences into the food selection. Expect: \n- Foods that nod to couples’ hometowns and heritages – from crab cakes for Maryland to green chilis for New Mexico, and everything in between\n- After-party fast food – Taco Bell, Panda Express, Chipotle…pick your poison\n- Pizza. That’s it. That’s the trend. (And we’re here for it) – casual, customizable, easy to serve en masse: what more could you want?\n\n## After the wedding there’s… a breather to enjoy married life. Now, that’s what we call wedded bliss.\n\nAs we said, while the wedding itself is one momentous, huge, milestone, it’s not the only one 2023 couples are planning for. Once they’re married they have some big plans:\n\n- 27% are prioritizing buying a home\n- 19% are prioritizing starting a family\n- 15% are prioritizing paying off debts\n- 7% are prioritizing saving for travel\n- 5% are prioritizing finishing education\n\nAnd, when asked what they’re looking forward to most after the wedding, most couples answered sweetly that they just can’t wait to spend the rest of their lives together. Here’s to happily ever after. \n\n### Want to see all the data? Contact press@zola.com for a full breakdown and for any other media inquiries.","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Wondering what to do with the 1000+ wedding posts you've saved all across the web? We're bringing you a complete social media guide to organizing all your wedding inspo, plus tips for creating your own content on your wedding day.","title":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo—From TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and More","slug":"how-to-organizing-your-wedding-inspo","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/z9DWVAE3WdfpssBLpBuXz/825200d358e2b52111ae5673a626b5a1/1116_EA_FLR-Guide_To_Organizing_Inspo.jpg","altText":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding is about more than just the wedding day—there are many moments along the way that couples also enjoy and celebrate. Here are the best parts of wedding planning, including ideas for making these milestones extra special. ","title":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones","slug":"ways-to-celebrate-all-your-wedding-planning-milestones","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/HqYagVdMFUhfHOc5QU1MP/af69eee7ffd274608eb0f128b06765fd/1116_EA_FLR-Ways_To_Celebrate.jpg","altText":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We know that many couples go into wedding planning without knowing exactly what goes into organizing one. Here's a list of everything you need to factor in when making your wedding budget.","title":"Wedding Budget Checklist—From Venues and Vendors to Tips and Favors","slug":"all-the-items-that-make-up-a-wedding-budget","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Hd3OV35dSkwsaxqDvMHi8/61a37ba7b9449748931198923662d58e/1116_EA_FLR-All_Things_Budget.jpg","altText":"All the Items That Make Up a Wedding Budget"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"It takes a village to plan a wedding, so there’s no shame in asking for support in whatever form you may need it. ","title":"Everyone That Can Help You Plan Your Wedding","slug":"who-should-help-you-plan-your-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1zE5hOmnTr629vOzbiBJpC/51fa87572b53207607de5ad8aa6eea68/1116_EA_FLR-Everyone_To_Help_Plan.jpg","altText":"Everyone That Can (and Should) Help You Plan Your Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the right person can happen instantly or take (what feels like) a lifetime, but here's how this year's couples knew they were ready to tie the knot.","title":"Wondering if They're \"The One?\" Here’s How 2023 Engaged Couples Knew","slug":"how-to-know-if-your-partner-is-the-one","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6WBXVfq1o9uO8MxQ5KKHSd/3be7185bcb7d243569b23802670dd6ba/1116_EA_FLR-Wondering_If_Theyre_The_One.jpg","altText":"Wondering if They're \"The One?\" Here’s How 2023 Engaged Couples in Knew"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding is about more than just the wedding day—there are many moments along the way that couples also enjoy and celebrate. Here are the best parts of wedding planning, including ideas for making these milestones extra special. ","title":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones","slug":"ways-to-celebrate-all-your-wedding-planning-milestones","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/HqYagVdMFUhfHOc5QU1MP/af69eee7ffd274608eb0f128b06765fd/1116_EA_FLR-Ways_To_Celebrate.jpg","altText":"Ways to Celebrate All Your Wedding Planning Milestones"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:01.726Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"pinterest-x-zola-wedding-trends-report","title":"The Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report: The Hottest Trends Predicted","excerpt":"Pinterest and Zola have teamed up to reveal the biggest emerging wedding trends of 2023.","publishedAt":"2023-06-28T22:21:37.764Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4NJO2MkfFAd3qhawV88Q6M/7cd08c0647c1258f93c7d1ad20972eeb/1v3__1_.png","altText":"couple holding hands with zola and pinterest logos mocked up"},"heroCredit":"Pinterest x Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/post/the-pinterest-x-zola-2023-wedding-trends-report","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Eco-friendly and non-traditional weddings are on the rise in 2023, with couples seeking sustainable and budget-conscious options such as thrifted elements and eco-friendly wedding decorations.\n- Maximalist weddings are trending, with couples embracing vibrant colors, extravagant themes, and unconventional ideas to create a bold and unforgettable wedding experience.\n- Mismatched bridesmaid dresses and re-imagined monochromatic themes are on the rise, while wedding guest outfits are receiving more attention with a significant increase in searches for outfit inspiration.\n- [Pinterest and Zola are your go-to platforms](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/post/the-pinterest-x-zola-2023-wedding-trends-report) for bringing wedding inspiration into reality throughout your entire planning process.","body":"With more than 2 billion useful wedding ideas on Pinterest and well over  2 million couples who’ve chosen Zola as their trusted partner in wedding planning, Pinterest and Zola have teamed up to reveal the biggest wedding trends of 2023. [The Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/post/the-pinterest-x-zola-2023-wedding-trends-report) marries Pinterest trends with Zola expert insights to highlight how couples can bring inspiration to realization throughout their entire planning process from engagement to newlywed life. \n\nAccording to [Zola's First Look Report 2023](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2023), today’s go-to wedding planning platform, supporting all couples in bringing their unique and authentic wedding visions to life, Pinterest is the #1 source of initial wedding inspiration for its community.  Even in a sea of social media options, 75% of Zola couples said Pinterest is a major source of inspiration for them, with both platforms supporting couples as they seek to plan weddings that feel personalized to who they are, and reflect their individuality.  \n\nFrom trending themes and top-shopped: wedding dresses to sustainable ideas and incredible venues, Pinterest and Zola have identified the biggest wedding trends of the year based on what *Pinners* are searching and saving to their boards and Zola couples are planning.\n\n![The Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/597uAHv9yWA1vi6dzSMoIy/fc06261ad400cadb94e06c7b76de4e78/f845f4d4-6d96-43f7-803e-4a8549c95f5e.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // [Kirsten Alexandria Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/photo/dreamy-eco-friendly-styled-shoot-in-the-woods-68#), Palm to Pine Photography\n\n## Eco-friendly and Non-traditional Wedding Themes and Decor \n\nGen Z is redefining tradition and challenging the norm, looking for ways to celebrate every day along the planning journey without the added stress that often comes with wedding planning. Pinterest insights show Pinners are searching for non-traditional and unique wedding ideas that reflect their wallets and their values, and given the current economic climate, couples are specifically looking for budget and earth-conscious ways to plan their wedding day. \n\n[According to Zola](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding), the average cost of weddings in 2023 is expected to be approximately $29,000, with 19% of couples incorporating thrifted elements into their wedding looks and/or decor. On Pinterest, searches for ‘leaf confetti’ and ‘eco-friendly wedding decor’ increased by  105% and 230%, respectively, signaling a rising trend towards sustainably focused weddings in 2023. \n\nAnd weddings are going green in every sense, with the trend taking on new meaning for couples selecting their wedding colors, invites and gifts. On Zola, searches for green [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) have increased 81%, with the Galata theme being not only the most popular wedding website theme, but also the [top-selling Zola wedding invitation of 2023 and of all time](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/5d17b42c-508f-480e-948d-30689b9cf460), featuring leafy eucalyptus leaves. Sales for sage green registry gifts on Zola are also up 31%, and eucalyptus colored gifts up 26%. \n\n__Zola Expert Tip:__ Going green can also lead to savings. Zola couples are not only sending free digital save-the-dates and collecting RSVPs through their wedding websites, but they are also shopping for affordable, eco-friendly options such as wedding paper printed on Zola’s recycled paper. And, couples are also taking advantage of Zola’s [budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding/manage/budget) to track their budget at every stage in the process.\n\n### Shop the Trends\n\n- [Caraway Home Non-Stick Ceramic Cookware Set, 7-Piece in Sage ](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/carawayhome_16pc_ceramic_cookware_set_sage?epik=dj0yJnU9bUEwam9kdlJQa1huMFlHTHBDVXBWbW1qWFF2bmVnbGUmcD0wJm49MTg1YVpxVjJiRlVnaW95VzQ2ems4dyZ0PUFBQUFBR1Njcmtj) \n- [Modern Threads Air Cloud 6-Piece Luxury Towel Set in Eucalyptus](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/modernthreads_air_cloud_6pc_luxury_towel_set_eucalyptus?epik=dj0yJnU9VWVvdzA5blFKMTFxNklXVjV2NlBLc1I4c192TlNmbDkmcD0wJm49ZWFQT2N1N0FOZE5ZTGs1X2tFY0k2ZyZ0PUFBQUFBR1Njcmx3) \n- [Milo Classic Dutch Oven in Eucalyptus with Gold Knob](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/milo_classic_dutch_oven_eucalyptusgoldknob?epik=dj0yJnU9TkhKeWtRTVZSYmFxczdnYVdYNmxVbEVBdlRlQW44amYmcD0wJm49TFRnWTFpdHdaclA0NlJxOFhfWERKUSZ0PUFBQUFBR1Njcm80)\n\n### Maximalist weddings \n\nWhile some couples like to keep their weddings laid-back and low key (think micro wedding), others like to go all out—and embrace a full-blown maximalist approach to wedding planning. Whether opting for bright, vibrant color palettes and florals or embracing an extravagant theme, couples in 2023 are looking to turn the volume up on their wedding design.\n\nSearches for ‘maximalist wedding’ increased 1900% along with:\n- Hot pink wedding colors +465%\n- Barbie wedding theme: +140%\n- Disco wedding theme: +110%\n\n![Pinterest x Zola Wedding Report 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7HHv5fMh4OekZkXkTeZQ8/69133a6c968ef5d65f6659ae4c0c565e/3f0d068d-10af-4162-875b-cc1a3e375361.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // [K1 Tx Productions](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/photo/glamorous-spring-wedding-in-texas-city-2#)\n\n### Non-traditional weddings\n\nWhile many couples opt for a traditional ceremony and reception, in 2023, more Pinners are opting to think completely out of the box for their big day, searching for unique, unexpected wedding themes (like having an underwater elopement!) that create truly one-of-a-kind experiences.\n\nSearches for [‘underwater wedding’](https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=underwater%20wedding&eq=underwater%20wedding&etslf=5563) increased 305% along with:\n- Skiing wedding +75%\n- Airplane hangar wedding +40%\n- Modern western wedding +435%\n\n### \"Rust\" married\n\nThe non-traditional trend is also expanding to wedding color palettes. Rust, a shade of copper, is one of the hottest trends in wedding colors in 2023—particularly when it’s paired with shades of green, like emerald or eucalyptus.\n\nSearches for ‘emerald green and rust wedding’ increased +1050% along with:\n- Terracotta mens suit wedding +175%\n- Rust and eucalyptus wedding +140%\n- Copper ties groomsmen +30%\n\n### Gen Z: Rise of the Alt Wedding\n\nMore Gen Z-ers are saying their “I do’s”—and many of them are bucking traditional nuptials in favor of more alternative weddings. Whether that’s exploring unconventional wedding dress ideas and opting for alternative wedding dresses (or other non traditional wedding attire), searching for unique wedding vows examples on Pinterest to give their vows extra flair, or purposefully going as far as traditional as possible and going with an ugly or anti-bride wedding theme, Gen Z is full of alternative brides and grooms looking to plan an anything but typical event. \n\nSearches for [‘anti bride wedding’](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/689824867940154432/) increased +490% along with:\n- Non traditional wedding vows +205%\n- Non traditional wedding dresses +110%\n- Ugly wedding +110%\n\n![Pinterest x Zola report 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ja1VLbNUSue75ls1k5qDz/cc0c3ab6a3e692955d954e4b1abc8568/6283d71a-0ccd-4599-9541-84ba89eda900.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // [Tom Studios Wedding Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/photo/modern-new-york-wedding-at-tribeca-rooftop-2#)\n\n### Cost effective and Sustainable Weddings\n\nGiven the current economic and climate challenges facing the world, many couples today are looking for ideas for planning a wedding on budget—and making sure their wedding on a budget isn’t just affordable, but sustainable. This includes using used wedding decor/used wedding decorations instead of buying things new, looking for ways to save on on vendor costs (like finding photography and wedding flowers on a budget), and sticking to a strict budget (thanks to tools like a wedding budget planner, wedding budget calculator, or wedding budget template). \n\nIt also means looking for more environmentally conscious wedding dress alternatives, and looking for costly (and green!) ways to take care of their wedding attire after the big day—include wedding dress cleaning and wedding dress preservation.\n\nSearches for ‘Eco friendly wedding decor’ increased 230% along with:\n- Leaf confetti +105%\n- Wedding gown preservation +135%\n- Upcycle wedding dress: +50%\n\n__Zola Expert Tip:__ Going green can also lead to savings. Zola couples are not only sending free digital save-the-dates and collecting RSVPs through their wedding websites, but they are also shopping for affordable, eco-friendly options such as wedding paper printed on Zola’s recycled paper. And, couples are also taking advantage of Zola’s budget tool to track their budget at every stage in the process. \n\n## Wedding Style & Beauty \n\nPinners come with the intention to discover what they want to shop from their favorite wedding dress designers/wedding gown designers - Products are added daily from merchants and the number of products saved to boards by users has increased 50% over the last year. Below you can see the top saved wedding dresses that Pinners are shopping from Verified Merchants on Pinterest.\n\n![Pinterest x Zola Dresses](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4bCpIZvvVvZHKpkNagMqWh/deffc3db56ca8346958b2b3dab253666/Pinterest_x_Zola_Dresses.jpeg)\n\n#### Top Shopped Wedding Dresses on Pinterest\n\n- [Miranda Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51439620735537772) Olivia Bottega ($999)\n- [Ella Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51439620736027391/) Olivia Bottega ($990)\n- [The Water Ripple Textured Cami Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/874190977643547975/) RIHOAS ($37)\n- [Luca Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/205828645462313409/) Liz Martinez ($6,500)\n- [Barbie Wedding Dress With Puffy Sleeves](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/1051098000507028695/) D & D Clothing ($1,700)\n- [Rhea Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/205828645461532757/) Vivienne Westwood ($8,065)\n- [Hayley Lace + Crepe Wedding Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/266486502937456205/) Dreamers & Loves ($2,700)\n- [Carmen A Line Tulle Wedding Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/574209021250751142/) COCOMELODY ($769)\n- [Jacqueline 2 in 1 Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51439620736550793/) Olivia Bottega ($2,000)\n- [Freyja Dress](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/205828645461379073/) Vivienne Westwood ($13,190)\n\n### Non-traditional veils\n\nPinners are searching for non-traditional veils or veil alternatives to complete their look. While the wedding dress or suit is undeniably the most important piece of the wedding day look, accessories have the power to pull the whole ensemble together. \n\nSearches for ‘Veil alternative’ increased 220% along with:\n- 3D flower veil +65%\n- Headpiece jewelry +175%\n- Colorful wedding veil +260%","body2":"### Beauty trends\n\nWith the most useful inspirational content and inclusive beauty features, Pinterest is the best place for planning the wedding look—from wedding hairstyles for long hair/medium hair/short hair or the perfect natural bridal makeup look—that brings out the beauty of the individuals. Pinners are searching for   and saving makeup inspiration to their boards that match their skin tones using the first-of-its-kind [skin tone ranges](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/skintoneranges2020) feature and discovering  hair style inspiration for their hair textures with the [hair pattern search](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en-gb/post/pinterest-introduces-first-of-its-kind-hair-pattern-search-for-inclusive-beauty-results) feature for their special day.\n\nBoards titled “Ethereal makeup” increased 845% along with:\n- glam wedding makeup +120%\n- Long hair wedding styles +50%\n- Engagement hairstyles: 60%\n\n__Pinterest Tip:__ Want to try on new makeup without having to leave your home? Try Pinterest’s AR Try On Tool by tapping “Try On” in the Pinterest camera or check search results, where items that are available in AR show up with a “Try It” button. You can save the looks for later reference or purchase, or explore different looks with similar lip shades and eyeshadow colors. \n\n![Pinterest x Zola report 4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6TYESuF3I7sjzmHGAAKWpy/e3d891f98d67032ba50bbd9527699057/3f1af45f-b00b-48f8-93bd-0c4c79f0a331.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // [J. Guthrie Photo](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/photo/fall-wedding-at-pilgrim-chapel-2#)\n\n## Guests, Wedding Party and Bouquets \n\nPinterest 2023 trends show that mismatched bridesmaid dresses and re-imagined monochromatic themes for the wedding parties are on the rise. Wedding guest outfits are also a major focus for Pinners. Searches for “wedding guest outfit inspiration” is up a whopping 3800% year over year. Pinners on the guest list are also saving their inspiration for their best wedding guest dresses to their boards to shop for the best outfits for the upcoming wedding they are attending this year -  boards titled “wedding guest dress”—filled with plenty of unique best dresses for wedding guests—have doubled since last year. \n\nAccording to Zola, more than two-thirds of couples (69%) are mixing wedding party attire with non-traditional mix-and-match outfits.\n\nSearches for ‘mismatched black bridesmaid dresses’ increased 535% along with:\n- “All different bridesmaids dresses” +520%.\n- Dark blue bridesmaid dresses mismatched +110%\n- Dusty pink bridesmaid dresses mismatched +85%\n\nSearches for ‘Hijabi dresses for wedding guests’ increased 265% along with:\n- Garden wedding guest attire +110%\n- Androgynous wedding outfit +85%\n- Queer wedding outfit guest +315%\n\n### Cost effective and creative bouquets\n\nPinners are searching for cost effective and creative ways to bring their ideal wedding bouquets to life. Butterfly bouquets and ribbon flowers add a trendy Y2K flare while the top rising flower by Gen Z Pinners is a timeless classic - Baby’s Breath (+610%).\n\nSearches for ‘pearl wedding bouquet’ increased 95% along with:\n- Antler bouquet +80% \n- Butterfly bouquet + 5535% (Gen Z)\n- Ribbon flowers bouquet +515% (Gen Z)\n- Baby’s breath bouquet aesthetic +240% (Gen Z)\n\n![Pinterest X Zola report 5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/pUDbPZ1MyL4IyJOYz031G/31e91b5f8b582e98ec5b59e73e02fc9e/c6fbf7ca-c9ed-48ca-9fa6-ba5bc508f488.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // [Adventure Amore](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/photo/colorado-adventure-elopement-at-garden-of-the-gods-100#)\n\n## Wedding Destinations, Dream venues & Travels\n\nFollowing years of travel restrictions, Pinners and Zola couples are eager to travel the world to find the most unique wedding venues and honey spots for their destination weddings and honeymoons, as well as bring their favorite destinations to life close to home. Pinterest boards titled ‘dream wedding venues’ have increased 190% and searches for ‘best honeymoon places’ went up 325% over the last year, with top honeymoon destinations across Africa, Europe, as well as in the US.\n\nFor many couples, their vision to find the most unique places to get married  can fly  international, but they may also select a venue  very close to home. According to Zola, 55% of couples are choosing a venue local to where they live and 18% are choosing a venue local to their hometown, while 6% are choosing something overseas. With Zola’s vast selection of local wedding venues, it's never been easier for couples to search for and book the perfect place that brings their online inspiration into reality and fits every key requirement from budget to style.  \n\n### Top International Themed Weddings\n\nWhile couples can find a number of unique wedding locations across the globe to say “I do’s,” in 2023, Italy, France, Spain, and Greek were among the most searched for couples planning a destination wedding internationally.\n\nSearches for ‘italian wedding themes’ increased 640% along with:\n- Mariage theme provence +480%\n- Spanish wedding theme +170%\n- Grecian wedding theme +85%\n\n### Top International Honeymoon Destinations\n\nWhile it might not make the most sense for people searching for the best honeymoon destinations on a budget, couples with some extra cash to spend are exploring the best honeymoon destinations in some of the most romantic, adventurous, and chicest places across the globe, including Morocco, Croatia, and Cape Town.\n\nSearches for ‘Morocco honeymoon’ increased 75% along with:\n- Honeymoon in Croatia +190%\n- Azores honeymoon +135%\n- Cape town honeymoon +60%\n\n![Zola x Pinterest report 6](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3s9J6e2yovZmheSHhOKlWj/9b714c361525fc72773c80a0be4e20a0/31528bcb-05b0-44f1-b0b3-fc3845a92322.jpeg)\n*Photo Credit* // From [Liberty House Restaurant's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/liberty-house-restaurant)\n\n### Top Wedding Venues on Zola\n\nAccording to Zola, some of the most popular wedding venues (and most unique wedding venues!) include event spaces in Brooklyn, NY; Miami, FL; and Temecula, CA.\n\n- [The 1909](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-1909) \n- [ Galway Downs by Wedgewood Weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding-ve[ndors/wedding-venues/galway-downs-by-wedgewood-weddings) \n- [Secret Gardens Miami](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/secret-gardens-miami)\n- [Liberty House Restaurant](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/liberty-house-restaurant)\n- [501 Union](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/501-union)\n\n### Top US Honeymoon Destinations\n\nWhile many couples are searching for international honeymoon locations, many are also searching for the best honeymoon destinations in USA—which, according to Pinners, include Charleston, SC; Asheville, NC; and the white sand beaches of Florida.\n\nSearches for ‘cheap honeymoon destinations in the us’ increased 105% along with:\n- Charleston honeymoon +70%\n- Honeymoon beach florida +85%\n- Asheville honeymoon +75%\n\n## Zola x Pinterest: Your Experts on All Things Weddings and Inspiration\n\nZola and Pinterest are the ultimate experts on helping couples bring their dream weddings to life. With more than 2 billion useful wedding ideas on Pinterest and well over 2 million couples who’ve chosen Zola as their trusted partner in wedding planning, [The Pinterest x Zola 2023 Wedding Trends Report](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/post/the-pinterest-x-zola-2023-wedding-trends-report) marries trends with expert insights to highlight how couples can bring inspiration to realization throughout their entire planning process.\n\nFor the full report please reach out to the Pinterest press team or read more at [Pinterest.com](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/en/post/the-pinterest-x-zola-2023-wedding-trends-report).","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_RealWeddings"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to plan an engagement party to achieve guaranteed hosting success. ","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Plan an Engagement Party","slug":"how-to-plan-an-engagement-party","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6gsqs04WfHnnZR5YSUGvch/ac4778019adadb17d985dc84e1ef3aff/Brand_Book_Yeti_03.jpg","altText":"Yeti cooler filled with bottles of sparkling rose wine and glasses filled with wine in the background"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Feel on top of the world with our list of wedding party entrance songs. Create an unforgettable wedding entrance soundtrack leading up to your big moment.","title":"188 Best Wedding Party Entrance Songs to Get the Party Started","slug":"wedding-party-entrance-songs","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2TgB1awivvyJuy3OQcbN2j/a44ab25849327dd808935b2beb5e29d1/Wedding_Party_Entrance_Songs_Groomsmen.jpg","altText":"Newlyweds dancing inside of their wedding reception venue with bride wearing flower crown"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Don't know where to shop for androgynous wedding attire? We've compiled a list of 10 places to shop plus moodboards for every wedding style.","title":"Androgynous Wedding Attire: A Timeless Gender-Neutral Style Guide","slug":"androgynous-wedding-attire","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4mMWGycb0RlzWGFZTAJQt2/d899aec4756f6b7c139dd89e2dd3838e/androgynous-attire-for-weddings-hero.jpg","altText":"A woman wearing androgynous wedding attire during the sunset. "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Seeking hair inspiration for your wedding day? With DIY tips from expert stylists, check out 50 diverse wedding hairstyles for every hair length, shape, and texture.","title":"50 Wedding Hairstyles for All Hair Types","slug":"wedding-hairstyles","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2f9iW5rW6QbHvSLgfTrzC2/4c2cc54d348e9806b17a283139d2fa01/wedding-hairstyles-hero.jpg","altText":"bride adding a flower to her hair"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding in 2023? Here’s your first look at the wedding trends for 2023 you’re about to see everywhere. ","title":"20 Wedding Trends for 2023, from Audio Guest Books to DIY Sushi Bars","slug":"wedding-trends","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ZT4qgmx6msM9g3S7bhqju/d4ed5a390b250c5297925d568261926b/wedding-trends-2023-hero.jpg","altText":"https://www.zola.com/"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Zola’s annual guide to wedding trends and budgets. Here's what's new in 2023...","title":"The First Look Report 2023","slug":"the-first-look-report-2023","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2zcJgr4dnJctFWU9OddY94/3cbc6c57a171d66cd58708ec901913cd/1116_EA_FLR-Main_FLR_Report.jpg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023 Hero"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Stay within your wedding budget! See average wedding cost breakdowns by state, guest size, and vendor service, plus money-saving tips from the experts.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in 2024?","slug":"whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4skZZwsBNNnII2pvCWRNPN/671c056531847a20ab06c1a85d2f37f5/1205_FLR2024_EA_header_editorial.png","altText":"Couple sitting on steps in wedding attire, with text \"The First Look Report 2024\""},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding can feel like a rollercoaster, so we asked 2023 engaged couples to share the best parts of making it to the big day ","title":"The Best Parts of Wedding Planning, According to Real Couples","slug":"the-best-parts-of-wedding-planning","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/0oxBMk8whh92YiB9DgWw1/2752430b32e1f1588cdbc9604200be6d/1116_EA_FLR-Best_Parts_of_Planning.jpg","altText":"The Best Parts of Wedding Planning, According to Real Couples"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:41:58.399Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"the-first-look-report-2023-wedding-pro-edition","title":"The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition","excerpt":"Zola surveyed over 4,000 couples on their planning journeys to find out what’s shaping 2023. This report explores how and why these answers matter to wedding professionals.","author":"The Zola for Vendors Team","publishedAt":"2023-01-23T17:03:25.997Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1b2kgD7ELk6Y0nurJIhPVC/2e23c9e37f5e2c4fb298f364c38a2b82/shingi-rice-DCXuZ7WzM9I-unsplash__1__copy.jpeg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition"},"heroCredit":"Edward Eyer","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Zola couples believe that their wedding should be unique to them and representative of their relationship—but that doesn’t mean they don’t need inspiration from sources like their vendors. \n- Digital, digital, digital. 2023 couples are using multiple digital platforms—including Zola—to streamline their wedding planning.\n- Budgets remain a major hurdle for 2023 couples, but many vendor services are considered splurge-worthy.\n- Excited but overwhelmed, the majority of 2023 couples don’t feel prepared for the decision-making or vendor negotiations when starting the planning process. \n- [Download a PDF copy of the report](https://hubs.ly/Q01xq62d0)","body":"We surveyed 4,249 Zola couples getting married in 2023 to find out what they’re planning, what they’re budgeting, what they’re looking forward to, and more. This report focuses on the answers that deliver useful insight for wedding professionals who are looking to meet the next generation of couples and be a part of making their dream wedding a reality.\n\nFor a bigger picture of couples and what’s important to them, please check out our primary [Zola First Look Report 2023](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2023). \n\n## The 2023 Zola couple is young, tech-savvy, and ready to splurge\n\nCouples have been inundated with weddings their entire adult lives. Influenced by media, pop culture, and their social media feeds—not to mention the 10+ weddings they’ve attended in the past two years alone—they’re overloaded with inspo and noise. Now that it’s their turn, they’re taking a step back and focusing on why they want a wedding in the first place.\n\nAt the end of the day, all that matters is they love their partner and are excited to spend the rest of their lives together. __This newest generation of couples believes the wedding is, ultimately, just one (really fun) part of a bigger journey.__ They’ve been engaged on average for 2 years, longer than any generation before, so why not throw a memorable and meaningful party for themselves, family, and friends\n\n![FLR Q1&2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1LmekxWu80bbwoqMYTscme/1e12328b9e6143c18ee662e7d9989c43/FLR_Q1_2.png)\n\n## Couples are breaking the mold with a unique-to-them spin \n\nCouples are craving “something new.” No longer satisfied with the cookie cutter, they’re looking to celebrate their lives together in a way special to them and their love.\n\n![FLR Q3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1v7MwyfiWV5w1B0SR1x7HP/329b52ccbb422f3d55296e0dbc6adb76/FLR_Q3.png)\n\nCouples are also eager to bring their favorite things, like foods and restaurants, into play. More couples are looking to capture the day on social media, with __20% planning to create content specifically for platforms like TikTok.__\n\nNotably, 2023 weddings will be bigger, both in guest list and scope. __Two-thirds of weddings are expected to exceed 100 guests and nearly a quarter span longer than a day,__ some as many as 3 days, complete with non-traditional events and even “sequel” weddings.\n\n![FLR Q4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/67aHtpfbBloMbFXMPczdnp/016fc821d85b1adb2810eb70fc870105/FLR_Q4.png)\n\n*Take action: take the time to really get to know your couples and understand how you can support them in adding a unique spin to their day. Collaborate and use it as a chance to try something new!*\n\n## Couples have a multi-platform digital planning strategy — and you should, too \n\nWhen it comes to gathering inspo, classics like Pinterest and Instagram still rank supreme. However, 2023 couples are looking elsewhere, too, like on TikTok and to their very own vendors\nfor ideas and guidance.\n\n![FLR Q5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2u6p0j4mKTggIK49yXfmd6/277336e622b88c0d9e272185739af5a3/FLR_Q5.png)\n\nAs for finding those vendors, specifically venues, __over 43% of couples are searching on social media and digital platforms like Zola.__\n\n![FLR Q6](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/8j6khuuLjrG5AOytUM5R7/f5096cc7ae4d378567e00d02ffe86a02/FLR_Q6.png)\n\n*Take action: meet couples where they are. Establish a presence across different digital platforms—like your website and social media— to get in front of couples who just started planning. Providing them with ideas and advice on these platforms can empower them to move forward and make the negotiation and creative process easier.*\n\n## Budgets are tight, but some things are splurge-worthy \n\nIn 2023, budget remains one of the biggest stressors for engaged couples, especially with more couples contributing to their weddings or paying for them entirely. Cash funds are becoming even more common on registries, with a quarter being used to help pay for the wedding itself. Others have taken to creatively leveraging credit card perks and points. \n\n![FLR Q7](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2TKQJtxKKFURXpBXO24s3s/9cc6ee7c72720d910b64528c5b200c11/FLR_Q7.png)\n\nWhen asked, __60% of couples said they weren’t prepared for budgeting__, finding the process “overwhelming” when faced with real numbers reflecting service and labor costs. But __there are things they’re most willing to splurge on__, the top 4 being photography, venue, open bar, and catering.\n\n![FLR Q8](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/016GK3tHppKIs5YHk7S7QK/5afae96fe20dfb4c98a682194898a778/FLR_Q8.png)\n\n*Take action: give transparent quotes to help couples understand your costs and move forward confidently. If your costs are a stretch for the couple, offering flexible invoice and payment methods could make all the difference.*\n\n## For couples, expectations aren’t always meeting reality \n\nCouples defined planning as “exciting,” closely followed by “overwhelming” and “stressful.” When asked, __70% said they didn’t feel prepared for the number of decisions they’d have to make.__ Inspiration sources like social media have helped them figure out their style, but also contributed to overwhelm.\n\n![FLR Q9Quote](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/utFr59nchHKLsoiOj9yjK/740fe6be8e97605c7ad3e5a034598f95/FLR_Q9Quote.png)\n\n__Over 50% felt unprepared for hiring, negotiations, and contracts.__ But the effort paid off, as 15% said locking in their venue was one of their top 3 celebrated moments.\n\n![FLR Q9](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2whK1rkpblPufxDMjyHLuI/c8a61efa2ff2e78b6c1629dbdaa5a8fb/FLR_Q9.png)\n\nIn sharing how they’re dealing with stress, __over 16% reported hiring a planner__, who many cite as “their rock.” Here’s to you, planners!\n\n*Take action: help couples build their confidence and understanding to reduce decision anxiety. Consider how you can educate before, during, and after the inquiry process. Provide detailed, transparent information with enough context during your interactions —it could help you get booked!*\n\n## Finding success in 2023, key takeaways\n\n- __Be unique.__ Couples are shaking off cookie-cutter weddings and doing things their way. Support that vision by understanding them and not being afraid to offer your own creative recommendations for making the day their own.\n- __Be present.__ Couples are searching multiple digital platforms to plan and find vendors. Optimize your presence across a wide variety, like your website, Zola, Instagram, and TikTok to maximize impact.\n- __Be transparent.__ Couples are unprepared for the realities of wedding budgeting, but it doesn’t mean they’re not willing to splurge where it matters. Be transparent about your pricing and flexible with invoicing—it might build confidence to find some wiggle room in their otherwise tight budget.\n- __Be patient.__ For 2023 couples, this is likely their first time getting married. Support them with all the information and context they’ll need, both before reaching out and in the later stages. Your social media is a great place for educating!\n\n[Download a PDF copy of the report](https://hubs.ly/Q01xq62d0)\n\nQuestions about the report? Our team is happy to talk through even more 2023 First Look Report statistics, why they matter, and how we can help you make your goals a reality in 2023. Contact us at __weddingvendors@zola.com__. \n\nNot yet listed on Zola as a vendor? Visit [www.zola.com/forvendors](http://www.zola.com/forvendors) to create your free listing!","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Stay within your wedding budget! See average wedding cost breakdowns by state, guest size, and vendor service, plus money-saving tips from the experts.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in 2024?","slug":"whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4skZZwsBNNnII2pvCWRNPN/671c056531847a20ab06c1a85d2f37f5/1205_FLR2024_EA_header_editorial.png","altText":"Couple sitting on steps in wedding attire, with text \"The First Look Report 2024\""},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding in 2023? Here’s your first look at the wedding trends for 2023 you’re about to see everywhere. ","title":"20 Wedding Trends for 2023, from Audio Guest Books to DIY Sushi Bars","slug":"wedding-trends","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ZT4qgmx6msM9g3S7bhqju/d4ed5a390b250c5297925d568261926b/wedding-trends-2023-hero.jpg","altText":"https://www.zola.com/"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Zola’s annual guide to wedding trends and budgets. Here's what's new in 2023...","title":"The First Look Report 2023","slug":"the-first-look-report-2023","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2zcJgr4dnJctFWU9OddY94/3cbc6c57a171d66cd58708ec901913cd/1116_EA_FLR-Main_FLR_Report.jpg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023 Hero"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Wondering what to do with the 1000+ wedding posts you've saved all across the web? We're bringing you a complete social media guide to organizing all your wedding inspo, plus tips for creating your own content on your wedding day.","title":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo—From TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and More","slug":"how-to-organizing-your-wedding-inspo","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/z9DWVAE3WdfpssBLpBuXz/825200d358e2b52111ae5673a626b5a1/1116_EA_FLR-Guide_To_Organizing_Inspo.jpg","altText":"How to Organize All Your Wedding Inspo"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The average wedding officiant cost is around $200-$450 with all fees included. Learn more about how this cost is calculated, as well as tips to pick an officiant!\n","title":"How Much Does a Wedding Officiant Cost? [2023 Rates]","slug":"wedding-officiant-cost","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/27dKeimGA84fMtRryCpjQu/0f9ede0aca0f503c98ef66273d56157d/wedding-officiant-cost-hero.jpeg","altText":"Two brides are holding hands in front of their wedding officiant, indicating they hired their officiant after researching wedding officiant costs."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here's our list of top NYC women-owned wedding vendors—from planners and caterers to florists and DJs—in NYC to help pull off your dream day.\n","title":"The Top Women-Owned Wedding Vendors in NYC","slug":"the-top-women-owned-wedding-vendors-in-nyc","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gblVXlOx3XBIlD8DuB8px/6a37eb71c6a3b639248612dd73cd3ae1/Two_Sisters_Events_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"New York City Women-Owned Wedding Vendors, Two Sisters Events"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:42:00.107Z"}],"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends","description":"What's in and what's out? Discover this year's wedding trends in our annual First Look Reports. Each year, we survery thousands of couples getting married to find out what's in and what's out. Get inspired by how couples are planning, budgeting for and throwing their weddings this year."}],"featured":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Wedding trends","slug":"wedding-trends"},"subtopic":{"name":"First Look Reports","slug":"wedding-trends"},"slug":"the-first-look-report-2025","title":"2025 Wedding Trends: Zola's First Look Report ","excerpt":"For our annual First Look Report we surveyed close to 6,000 couples getting married in 2025 about what, why, and how they’re planning for their weddings. From this data, we highlight the year’s top wedding trends. Here’s what we found.","author":"Alexis Benveniste and Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2024-12-11T18:48:23.171Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6BYfpHsHMVu2Jni4j1LBYr/4e8150b68c3b6378d1177d67e50ceab8/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_cover.jpg","altText":"Just married couple sitting outside their apartment"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- __No surprises, please:__ Move over, mystery! Couples are planning weddings well before they’re “officially, officially” engaged, with the amount of couples taking serious steps—like booking venues or shopping for attire—more than doubling since last year.\n- __Expectations vs. reality:__ Social media inspires 91% of couples, but nearly half (48%) struggle with the gap between picture-perfect ideals and real-life budgets, showcasing both the upside and downside of finding inspiration online.\n- __Macro over micro:__ Intimate weddings are technically “trending”, but most couples still host more than 100 guests, with uninvited +1s and no-shows keeping guest list drama alive.\n- __What’s in and what’s out:__ Couples are leaning into modern takes on pearls and lace and favoring private vow exchanges, while leaving behind extravagance (for the sake of extravagance) for hyper-personalized celebrations that feel uniquely theirs.\n- __Weddings are getting (even more) expensive:__ With the average 2025 wedding cost climbing to $36,000, couples are saving, sharing costs, and splurging on what matters most—and 95% say it’s worth every penny.\n- __Rewriting some, but not all rules:__ While many couples are reinventing “outdated” wedding norms—like who is expected to pay for the wedding or what gifts are acceptable—certain traditions remain deeply loved.","body":"Every year, we dive deep into the world of weddings to uncover the latest trends, powered by insights from thousands of Zola couples. This year, one takeaway is crystal clear: As much as we all love obsessing over, pinning, and discussing wedding trends (and let’s be honest, that’s why we’re all here!), many of them never make it down the aisle.\n\nHere’s why: There is a contrast between the dreamy, aspirational images couples want to emulate, the trends they want to incorporate, and the reality of what their budget allows. Even with wedding budgets increasing and many couples saving for years or taking on extra jobs to afford their “dream day,” they simply can’t afford everything on their FYP. That, or when it comes down to it - they’d rather their wedding feel timeless than “of the moment.”\n\nIn fact, pragmatism may be just the trend that IS embraced by all couples. Couples are planning their weddings way before the proposal (because why not?), saying “yes” to having all of their loved ones attend over a microwedding (even if small, intimate vibes are apparently in), sticking with classic music choices, and even using AI-powered tools to save time and streamline planning. \n\nThis doesn’t mean 2025 weddings won’t be share-worthy or deeply personal. Today’s couples are striking a perfect balance between reinventing (or creating their own) traditions and embracing customs that stand the test of time—all while keeping their celebrations authentic and highly memorable. An interesting duality is emerging, as we see couples want to break from expectations of their parents and older generations to do it “their own way,” while wanting to conform to some of the same traditions that in their minds, define a wedding and a marriage. \n\nWith that, here are all of the unique ways—and yes, the trends—that Zola couples are planning their weddings for 2025.\n\n# Couples are getting a head start on planning – even before they get engaged\n\nPracticality might not sound romantic, but it has become a big part of modern love stories. Many couples have lived together, and been together for 4–6 years or even longer, so they’re diving into the planning process head first. And they’re not just daydreaming: 100% of the couples we surveyed (yes, every single one) took at least one step toward the big day, from building vision boards to curating their dream registry, all before they’re “officially, officially” engaged. \n\n__What’s more, compared to 2024 couples, the number who took what we’d consider a serious step has more than doubled__ – touring or booking a venue, setting a wedding date, shopping for wedding attire, inviting their wedding party, or even sending out save-the-dates. \n\nEven the ring itself isn’t always a surprise: 53% of couples shop for rings together, and 70% discuss the timing of their engagement in advance to make sure the moment is just right for both partners. Additionally, 8% of couples had a counterproposal, while another 8% said they wish they had counterproposed, highlighting a shift towards more collaborative and mutual engagement moments.\n\nWhen it comes to choosing the big moment, Christmas is the most popular date to get engaged, followed by Christmas Eve, December 23 and New Year’s Eve. Maybe it’s the mistletoe or the holiday magic, but it could also be the plain efficiency and thoughtfulness of choosing a time when friends and family are already gathered to celebrate together.\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics 2025 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5GcwuSXWDxS91CZqqKub0l/af6e3012ac75bc48e9f812c660b2232a/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_3.jpg)\n\n# The less social side of social media\n\nSince we began writing this report, the amount of wedding-related content available to couples online has probably quadrupled. Social content brings incredible joy, value, and even relief to the often overwhelming wedding planning process. And of course, it’s an undeniable treasure trove of ideas from color and fashion inspo to DIY details. In fact, 91% of couples call social media an invaluable planning resource— spending more than an hour a day scrolling for ideas. \n\nBeyond sparking ideas, social media does play a crucial role in the planning process itself: More than two-thirds (68%) of couples vet potential vendors—like venues, photographers, and makeup artists—by scrolling through their Instagram and TikTok accounts. It’s a great way of ensuring that vendors truly understand their vision and can bring it to life, which is the #1 reason why couples decide to pick a certain vendor.\n\nBut there’s a more complicated reality–a split between the inspiration and joy that comes from scrolling and the disappointment when Instagram just can’t quite align with reality. The gap between budgets and expectations fueled by social media has become the single biggest pain point for 2025 couples. 48% are struggling to find a balance between what they can realistically afford and the ”picture-perfect” weddings they see online.\n\nWhile couples don’t aim for a deliberately “trendy” or “perfect-for-social-media” wedding (in fact, these words ranked at the very bottom when we asked how they want their wedding to be perceived), 21% of 2025 couples still plan to create social-specific content for their big day, valuing the immediacy and “realness” that Reels and Tiktoks of their wedding create. \n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5meD6B5pEkOzQUiNuseCp7/bc2ab6e70f905b9ce5678ad1e74e4c3f/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip.jpg)\n\n# Weddings Vibes and Venues\n\nFor the second year in a row, garden parties top the list for both vibe and venue—and it’s no surprise. They perfectly embody the top five words couples use to describe their wedding style: Classic, Modern, Rustic, Minimalist, and Whimsical. Those romantic Bridgerton vibes are still inspiring us—we’re clearly not ready to leave that moment behind.\n\nAnd, along with the garden theme, Mother Nature is the ultimate wedding guest, as sustainability continues to trend upward. 17% of couples are thrifting or sustainably sourcing elements of their wedding look, while another 17% are focused on cutting down waste to make their celebration more eco-friendly.\n\nRanking second as the ideal wedding venue are rustic ranches, farms and barns, pointing to couples’ preferences for spaces that have character, charm, and ambiance built-in. In fact, having a built-in vibe is extremely important when it comes to choosing a venue - only 2% wanted to customize a totally blank space. Yes, a blank space means you can make your venue completely your own, but it also means you have exponentially more decisions to make. With decision fatigue being a VERY real thing for couples navigating wedding planning, many would prefer to pick cups and plates from the venue’s inventory vs. have more day-of details to account for (both on your to-do list and in your budget). \n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1XJUk15XVmSjDKrD7pguhe/044fd4c205e1421996ed46739c48760b/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip-1.jpg)\n\n# 2025 Wedding Color Trends\n\nWhile maximalism is still “trending” (we’re seeing accents of neon and bright colors tastefully incorporated into decor), 2025 couples widely prefer romantic hues and understated tones, reinforcing the timeless popularity of a nature-inspired and earthy aesthetic: \n\n- __Green__, an obvious complement to garden parties, is still the most popular color for 2025 weddings, with sage ranking as the #1 shade to appear in palettes (second only to classic wedding white).\n- __Earth tones__ like terracotta, rust, mocha (hello, 2025 Pantone Color of the Year!) and burnt orange reflect a preference for rustic and casual vibes that align with fall becoming the most popular wedding season.\n- A larger portion of couples are favoring __pastels and soft shades__ like dusty blue, blush pink, lilac, and peach, bringing a dreamy and romantic feel to their celebrations.\n- Others are embracing vibrant hues with color palettes inspired by __wildflowers__ to create a playful and whimsical style.\n\nCouples are not only thinking about color for wedding decor - we’re seeing more couples embrace color for their engagement rings with almost 10% of 2025 couples opting for colored gemstones. \n\nOne place where couples have set pretty clear color rules? Wedding attire. \n\n- __Wearing white:__ 95% of those surveyed agree that wearing white as a wedding guest is totally unacceptable.\n- __Seeing red:__ 74% concede that wearing red is fair-game and celebratory (as long as it is culturally appropriate) because the couple will always steal the spotlight. \n\n# Intimate Weddings, Big Guests Lists\n\nWe know that intimate weddings are definitely “in” for 2025. In fact, a small guest list was one of the most “in” trends as ranked by all 6,000+ couples surveyed. But in reality, most weddings are anything but tiny, and guest lists are not shrinking. Only 6% of weddings will have less than 50 people, and just 14% (including that 6%) will stay under 75. Most couples are still planning to celebrate with more than 100 or more than 150 guests. \n\nOne factor that’s contributing to larger guests lists is that most 2025 weddings are close to home—67% are local enough for the majority of guests to drive (compared to 32% that are destination weddings). After all, trimming a guest list—or hoping it trims itself with a few “no” RSVPs—is much easier when distances make attending a bit trickier.\n\nSo, what’s our conclusion? That 2025 couples want their wedding to FEEL intimate, while still having their closest friends and family in attendance. One way they’re doing this (while keeping their guest list large) is by incorporating personal touches and stacking their wedding weekend itinerary with opportunities to have 1:1 conversations with their guests, so they can spend quality time (and make guests feel special) without putting pressure on the wedding day. \n\nWhile couples control the guest list (for the most part), they can’t always control how their guests act, which is a major source of tension:\n\n- __Uninvited +1s:__ 20% of couples who got married in 2024 told us that an extra +1 who was not on the original invite showed up at their wedding; but 82% of those surveyed agree that this is never okay. \n- __No-shows:__ 78% of 2024 couples said some yes RSVPs didn’t show up on the big day. While illness and travel delays were the usual culprits, in 30% of cases, the reason remains a mystery. (Pro tip: If you can’t make it, just send a quick note—trust us!)\n\n# The average cost of a wedding? More than last year\n\nWhen it comes to planning a wedding, your love comes with a price tag (that continues to increase). __The average cost for a 2025 wedding is projected to hit a high of $36,000__, up from the average of $33,000 in 2024 and $29,000 in 2023. So, what are the main contributing factors for these costs?\n\n- __Larger guest lists__: Weddings with between 50-75 guests cost on average $21,500, while weddings with between 150 - 200 guests cost on average $45,000.\n- __Location, location, location__: Local vs. destination, big city vs. suburban/rural. The average local wedding costs $34,208, compared to $41,312 for a destination wedding. And when we zoom in on city-specific numbers, NYC takes the top spot as the most expensive place to get married, with an average cost of $65,000, with Washington D.C. not far behind at $52,000. There are, however, plenty of cities where couples can tie the knot for less than the national average such as Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis, Seattle, Cleveland, Orlando and Houston. \n- __Splurgeworthy wedding professionals__: Couples are most willing to splurge on key elements including an incredible photographer to capture every memory, a stunning venue, and food and drinks that keep everyone celebrating all night long.\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics - team z tip-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1uPo11yRZvpBkIAmt6Bjau/9bd6060fd1a601ed9cf299211cf6b408/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_-_team_z_tip-2.jpg)\n\n# Is (going over) the budget worth it? Couples say yes\n\nWith the cost of weddings climbing every year since we started publishing our First Look Report (which, okay, has only been since 2022), we had to ask: Is it worth it? The answer: Absolutely.\n\nIn 2024, we reported that the average cost of a wedding was expected to be $33,000. This year, for the first time, we followed up with 1,500 of those newly married couples and found that 74% ended up going over their original expected budget.\n\nHere’s the kicker: While 37% reported going over by less than $5,000, 20% exceeded their anticipated cost by $10,000. And when we asked if it was worth it, 95% of them said, “It absolutely was.”\n\nHaving a wedding is a deeply intentional choice, and it isn’t made lightly. 87% of couples contribute to their wedding costs (29% fully and 58% partially). Many have been saving for years before getting engaged, and they’ve already tackled major financial decisions together—43% have combined their finances, and 24% have purchased a home. After years together, they’re making an active choice to celebrate their love on their terms. Add in all that intentional saving, optimizing credit cards, and even side hustles (20% took on extra gigs to afford the day), it’s no wonder they’re willing to splurge a little on their ideal venue, food, flowers, and photos. They’re crafting a celebration that feels worth every penny.\n\n# So…who pays?\n\nWith even more events - from wedding welcome parties, after-parties, bach events, and goodbye brunches - on the agenda, more budget questions are popping up for both couples and their guests. Should the couple foot the bill for these additional events and expenses, or is it reasonable to ask guests to pitch in? When it costs couples on average $2,800 to host a welcome party, and attending a bach party sets most guests back more than $600, what rules apply?\n\nWe asked couples what they thought and got a wide range of opinions—proving there’s plenty of room for clarity on cost etiquette. Here’s what we learned:\n\n- __Wedding party attire:__ Opinions are split. 51% of couples think the wedding party should pay for their own outfits, while 33% believe the couple should cover the cost as a thank-you to their crew.\n- __Hair and makeup:__ 53% of couples feel it’s their responsibility to cover the cost, while 33% think the wedding party should handle it themselves.\n- __Pre- and post-wedding events:__ Nearly a third of respondents admitted they’re unsure about who should pick up the tab for things like welcome parties and goodbye brunches.\n- __Bach parties:__ There’s more agreement here. 79% say friends should pay their own way.\n- __Destination weddings:__ We also asked the 32% of couples opting for a destination wedding (6% of those being international) one of the top questions we hear from guests heading to far-away celebrations: Are guests expected to spend the same amount on a wedding gift if they’re also covering travel and accommodations? The answer is no. 79% of destination wedding couples expect their guests to spend less on the wedding gift than they normally would, fully appreciating the extra effort, and expense, it takes to celebrate with them.\n\nOur conclusion? There’s a lot of gray area when it comes to who covers what, leaving the decision largely up to the couple. Our advice - set expectations with guests, and leave room for open and honest dialogue about what they can (or are not willing to) afford. \n\n# To tech or not to tech, that is the question\n\nAI is officially making its mark on the wedding planning process, with 90% of couples open to using it to save time on tasks like managing their budget, finding inspiration, creating schedules, and even drafting thank-you cards. 23% of couples are already incorporating AI into their planning process, (a 5% increase from last year) and we predict it will grow as many couples are still in the early stages of planning.\n\n74% of couples are cool with AI crafting wedding toasts and speeches–just as long as the heartfelt and emotional words come from the couples (or guests) themselves. The one big way couples are divided on AI? Writing their wedding vows. When it comes to this emotionally-involved aspect of the wedding planning process 51% of couples are okay with it, and 49% of couples are not. We’ll let 2026 couples break this tie. \n\n# What’s in and what’s out for 2025 \n\nEvery year, we ask couples what they’d consider “in” and “out” for weddings to get a pulse on what is gaining and dropping in popularity. The results are below, but let us caveat: trends are always in the eye of the beholder. So even if something lands on the “out” list, that doesn’t mean it’s passé or unacceptable. It’s up to each individual couple to decide what’s right for them!\n\n__What’s In:__\n- __Unique venues:__ Even if gardens and barns are popular choices, every couple wants their venue to feel personal, authentic, and a little unconventional.\n- __Film photography:__ Nostalgia is having a major moment. This is an exciting way that couples are expressing themselves, and we can’t wait to see what specific styles of film photography pop up in 2025.\n- __Phone-free unplugged ceremonies:__ Put away the devices - aisle selfies are solidly out. Couples want their guests to stay focused and let the pros capture their moments. \n- __Extra-special wedding nail art:__ Nail art eye candy is taking over everyone’s feeds, and couples are using nail art as a way to show off their wedding style (peep pearl-embellishments and pops of bright color).\n- __Exchanging vows in private:__ Yes, couples want to party with their guests. But they also deeply cherish the special moment of exchanging vows, and want that moment to be intimate. \n- __Pearls & lace:__ Couples are remixing these timeless, classic materials - you’ll see modern takes on everything from dresses and veils, to nails.\n- __Outfit changes:__ Couples are expressing their individuality and creating MORE memorable moments by switching up their attire, sometimes multiple times during the event(s).\n- __Extra first look moments:__ 56% of couples have a first look with their partner, but 41% are adding a second first look with other loved ones. From parents and friends to children, couples savor special moments of calm. \n- __Classic music:__ The top song that gets 2025 couples moving is Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” And, when it comes to first dances, couples are all about romance: Elvis Presley’s “I Can’t Help Falling in Love” held the top spot last year, and we’re betting it’ll be hard to dethrone in 2025.\n- __Signature cocktails (and mocktails):__ 54% of couples will have these on the menu, and we love to see that having an alcohol-free wedding no longer means guests will have limited options. \n- __Secular weddings:__ 32% of couples are choosing religion-free ceremonies in 2025, up from 28% last year. That doesn’t mean that couples aren’t sharing their values, though - couples are incorporating their values into everything from their vows to their choice of vendor. \n- __Friend/family officiants:__ 61% of couples are asking loved ones to officiate their weddings, marking the third year in a row that this is “in” (and gaining in popularity). \n\n__What’s Out:__\n- __Over-the-top lavish celebrations:__ Because we value our money and can’t all afford to get married like a celebrity, even if we love to read about their weddings. \n- __Bow embellishments:__ A bold runway statement, but 63% of couples still said, “No, thanks.”\n- __Champagne towers:__ A great photo opp, but 2025 couples would rather drink (then waste) their bubbles.\n- __Neon signs:__ What used to be a major source of customization (and photo moment) is going out of vogue as couples find other ways to personalize their nuptials. \n- __Wedding hashtags:__ Similar to neon signs, couples are finding alternative ways to show off their personality. That said, we will always love a creative wedding hashtag!\n- __Bouquet toss:__ We’re seeing more couples choosing to preserve their bouquet vs. tossing it. \n\n__A House – And Survey – Divided:__ \n- __Required dress code for wedding guests:__ Some love the ease of knowing what to wear, but not everyone loves the limitation. Either way, make sure your dress code is clear and not ambiguous (that is a Team-Z definitive “out.”)\n- __Drop-waist gowns:__ We know drop waist gowns were all over Bridal Fashion Week, but many couples find this trend to be inaccessible. \n- __Elaborate wedding exits:__ Social-worthy, for sure, but with 30% of couples planning a wedding after-party, not everyone sees it as a must.\n- __Traditional wedding cake over other desserts:__ One thing is clear, sweet treats are in style. From cake (or cakes) to creative dessert tables, couples love closing the meal with something yummy. \n- __Colorful maximalist vibe:__ Joyful and bold for some, but others think less is more.\n- __Hiring a wedding content creator:__ With 21% capturing social-specific content, the decision to hire a wedding content creator vs. DIY depends on priorities and budget.\n\n![1205 FLR2024 EA inline graphic 4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6ZrloJYPtztUKInXaggkoW/bdbd37ee7e94241de266f29ab4c2f04d/1205_FLR2024_EA_inline_graphic_4.jpg)\n\n# Bring on the gifts\n\nWith weddings becoming more expensive and couples investing significant sums themselves, it’s no surprise that practicality is shaping gift selection. While the percentage of couples adding at least one cash fund to their registry remains steady at 87%, we’re seeing a slight uptick in funds specifically for wedding costs, as well as major newlywed priorities like purchasing a home, renovating, and even paying down debts. It’s a reflection of how modern couples are thoughtfully planning for their future, celebrating their big day, and balancing multiple financial priorities.\n\nLet’s not forget the honeymoon fund—still the #1 cash fund. That’s no surprise, considering 96% of 2024 couples took a honeymoon, with 74% traveling outside of the U.S. \n\nAnd, here’s a major discrepancy that surprised even us: While 70% of couples say they’d rather receive a cash gift over anything else, only 54% of guests say they prefer to give a cash gift when attending a wedding. And even though 87% of couples add at least one cash fund to their Zola registry, a whopping 95% of couples wish it felt more acceptable to ask for a cash gift.\n\nClearly, while many couples are embracing cash funds, there’s still work to be done to normalize giving and receiving cash gifts. So, let us shout it from the rooftops—it’s completely, 100% okay (and normal) to ask for and give cash gifts!\n\n![1210 FLR EA Graphics 2025 5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2xRySRvsPpgqD1DRhvQ5mU/8e3130a00b4cb394f68de833ba2a357b/1210_FLR_EA_Graphics_2025_5.jpg)\n\n# Reimagining the rules\n\nAs much as modern couples want to do things their own way, there’s still a deep appreciation for traditions passed down through generations. There's a gray area between the idea that couples are completely moving away from the weddings of the past and the reality of how they’re choosing to celebrate their marriage and step into newlywed life. And sometimes, it’s okay to live in the gray—not everything has to shift all at once (or ever). Many traditions are beautiful, purposeful things that add meaning to the celebration and the marriage.\n\nHere are some traditions couples aren’t ready to move away from—or are still thoughtfully navigating:\n\n- __Handwritten thank-you cards:__ Despite the rise of digital tools and AI technology, 54% of couples think it should be less acceptable to send a digital thank you card and would prefer a handwritten one. When it comes to expressing gratitude, a personal touch still means a lot.\n- __Changing your last name:__ 66% of women who are marrying men are planning to change their last name, with 12% unsure and 6% blending names. When asked why, 76% of those who were planning to change their name stated it was simply because “I want to.” Another 57% said it feels like a celebration of their marriage. 20% however admitted that “It’s just what you do.” Only 16% said they’re definitely not planning to change their name. \n- __The engagement ring:__ While the way couples shop for rings has shifted—most now shop together—and ring styles are evolving, 98% of couples still believe the ring is a valuable tradition. In fact, 96% of couples said they do have an engagement ring, proving that this symbol of commitment remains timeless. Most of those who do not have a ring said they simply cannot afford it at this time. \n\nWith that said, there are a few expectations that couples would like to shatter (or at least, not be beholden to or pressured by):\n\n- __Expectation for the bride’s family to pay:__ When asked what they’d like to change about the wedding journey, 31% of couples said they want to move away from the old-fashioned expectation that the bride’s family should foot the entire bill. This tradition doesn’t reflect reality for most: Only 30% of weddings with a bride follow this model, while 63% of couples receive financial support from both families, showing that a more balanced approach is becoming the new norm.\n- __One partner does all the planning:__ While 85% of couples lean on their partner as their wedding planning rock, the reality is that one person often takes on the bulk of the work. Among women marrying men, 81% report that their male partner has spent zero, barely any, or noticeably less time planning. For LGBTQ+ couples, the gap is smaller but still present, with 68% reporting that one partner shoulders more of the workload. Notably, 97% of couples think it should be more acceptable for both partners to have an equal say in the wedding vision—a shift we’re all rooting for.\n- __Declining an invite:__ Weddings are magical, but they’re also expensive—not just to throw, but to attend, travel to, and especially to be a part of. Our survey found that 91% of couples wish it felt more acceptable to decline a wedding invite. Similarly, 90% want it to be easier to say no to a pre-wedding event like a shower or bach party, and 75% would like it to feel less awkward to decline an invitation to join the wedding party.\n\nAs we look ahead to 2025, one thing remains crystal clear: Modern couples are still dreaming big, but planning in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. They’re striking the perfect balance between personal touches and practical decisions, making choices that reflect the priorities—and budget realities—that matter most to them. \n\nSo here’s to celebrating love on your terms—because that will always be what’s truly “in.”","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Zola surveyed close to 7,000 couples getting married in 2024 about why, what and how they’re planning for their weddings. Here’s a deeper dive into all of the data. 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