What is the Wedding Boom?

Have you heard of "The Wedding Boom?"⁠

Back in 2020, essentially all weddings had to be downsized or postponed to 2021 + 2022. Weddings are back in business now (at least here in California) and the covid couples are ready to have their big celebration now!⁠

But with the additional couples that have gotten engaged in 2021 and will be engaged in early 2022, the demand for vendors in 2022 is incredibly high right now.⁠

According to The Wedding Report, a research company, there will be over 2.47 million weddings taking place in 2022. This is the highest recorded amount in nearly four decades. This incredible increase in demand has now coined the term, “The Wedding Boom.”

While this may cause panic for some, I’m here to remind you that the wedding industry is large. Even though the demand is high, the supply for most vendors is too. You’re likely going to run into a few “I’m unavailable for your date” messages, but your perfect vendors are out there, I promise!

I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and I'm optimistic that your wedding day is going to be the best day ever despite disappointments and frustrations you may run into while planning.⁠

Here are a few tips to help you plan during this time:⁠

1. Hire a planner to help you

Having someone on your side during the process, such as a wedding planner, is going to make things much easier on you. Your planner has industry insider information with venues and vendors, making the process of finding your perfect vendor who is available for your date much simpler.

2. Do the small things earlier than you planned

Booking your highest priority vendors first is best, but don't forget about the smaller things too. We’re seeing all sorts of issues in the supply chain, causing delayed production and shipping. Ordering your wedding dress/suit, rings, save the dates/invites, bridesmaids dresses/groomsmen wear, and other important decor items should be done earlier than recommended.

3. Give your guests as much notice as possible

Your guests will also be receiving more wedding invites than usual. Sending out save the dates/invites asap is incredibly important so that your date is marked on their calendar. It's likely that you might have a smaller guest list than expected and if guests you'd hoped would be able to make it can't be there, remember that they're likely bummed about it too.⁠ (Unfortunately this has already happened to me twice this year, and yes, I am bummed about it.)

4. Consider a more flexible date!

You're able to get married on a weekday! I know, it sounds a little crazy at first, but I'm seeing more and more weekday weddings happening next year. There's going to be a lot more availability with your preferred vendors Mon-Thurs. ⁠

5. Reach out to your community!

A quick post on Facebook could get you the perfect restaurant recommendation to cater your wedding. It’s possible someone within your circle might know someone from college who is an incredible florist now. They might even know of a space to host your wedding that you wouldn’t be able to find on The Knot or by quick google search. It’s worth a shot to get some leads!