By Paul Pannone

 

Traditional weddings and the formality that goes along with them continue to decline, according to the latest figures at The Wedding Report. Surveys that compared 2008 to 2009 numbers fell 11-17% in segmented surveys that asked marrying couples specific questions about their wedding plans. The Wedding Report remains a highly respected source when it comes to wedding data, often quoted in major publications and media. The Wedding Report applies unique variables and gathers a better understanding of the market because of their independent structure and use of resources. Wedding Report information is felt to be a more realistic analysis of trends and market conditions than other information skewed by advertising dollars.

 

Wedding planners and other sources polled in various markets have mixed feelings regarding the latest findings that were being gathered last month, as eWedNews prepared for its launch. One planner in the D.C market vehemently opposed the data, saying business was up, along with interest in tradition and formality. "I'm getting my price, planning the right wedding for the budget. It's all about knowing your market and providing the right service-- and caring," sources told EWN.

 

In California, ease in planning was reported, as couples want a break from opulence and head towards family style unity. "Outdoor and casual, celebrating the couple's new life together is really what it's all about; not seeing who could outspend the other," said planners and vendors. The same held true in other areas, where couples are adding their own personal touches to all portions of planning their day. Do It Yourself (DIY) continues to make its way into plans and is growing in popularity, in all markets.

 

From food to fashion, the trend towards ease and away from elegance continues. However, the idea is being disputed by sources that rely on dollars spent on fanfare. Advertising publications that rely on selling the idea of luxury and protocol skew numbers in their favor, admitting the segment of the market they attract are the traditional. "Of course they are, who do you think purchases Bridal Publications, people that are serving hot dogs and playing board games at their events?" some reply.

 

An ongoing eWedNews investigation is looking into the decline of traditional wedding publications and bridal shows that are felt to be "too plentiful", at a time where the market they service is in no doubt, declining. 

 

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