Dublin — The United States wedding services market, valued at $62.74 billion in 2024, is projected to surge to $105.79 billion by 2033, according to a new report from ResearchAndMarkets.com. This rapid expansion, driven by evolving consumer preferences, increasing demand for personalized wedding experiences, and technological advancements in event planning, is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.98% over the forecast period 2025-2033.
Modern couples are increasingly seeking highly tailored weddings featuring bespoke décor, customized catering, and unique venues. Influences from celebrities and social media platforms have amplified the desire for visually memorable, “Instagram-worthy” celebrations. In response, wedding service providers are innovating with distinct themes, immersive guest experiences, and creative design solutions, fueling growth in niche segments such as luxury and destination weddings.
Notably, in January 2023, David’s Bridal — a leader in bridal and special events — launched “Pearl by David’s,” an integrated planning platform and vendor marketplace that strengthens its foothold in the special event planning sector.
Destination Weddings Gain Traction
Destination weddings have become a prominent trend, with couples favoring scenic locales both within and beyond the U.S. This shift is bolstered by all-inclusive wedding packages and the convenience of combining weddings with honeymoon travel. Resorts, hotels, and event planners are capitalizing on this demand by offering specialized destination wedding services, further accelerating market growth.
The trend is also supported by more affordable travel and event management options. Estimates suggest around 15% of U.S. destination weddings are booked by couples from Canada, the U.K., and Mexico. Popular destinations such as Central Park, Hawaiian beaches, and the Grand Canyon remain top choices, prized for their spectacular backdrops and unique experiences.
Rise of Digital Wedding Planning Platforms
The wedding industry’s digital transformation has fundamentally altered how couples organize their weddings. Online platforms now offer vendor matching, budget tracking, and virtual consultations. Industry-leading sites and apps like The Knot and Zola have simplified tasks such as venue booking, photographer engagement, and guest list management.
This technology-driven convenience has expanded access to professional wedding services, sustaining market momentum. In July 2024, The Knot Global introduced new features for The Knot and WeddingWire focused on enhancing lead quality, improving vendor storefronts, and delivering actionable insights to vendors aiming to secure committed clients.
Market Challenges: Rising Costs and Seasonality
Despite the promising outlook, the market faces challenges. Rising costs for venues, catering, décor, and entertainment have prompted some couples to opt for smaller or DIY weddings, which can reduce demand for premium services. Inflation and broader economic shifts are also leading many to prioritize essential services over luxury options, creating hurdles for high-end providers.
Seasonality further complicates operations. The wedding market peaks during spring and autumn, causing revenue fluctuations for vendors during off-peak periods. Additionally, unpredictable factors such as adverse weather or economic downturns can result in cancellations or scaled-back spending, impacting market stability.
Segment Insights: Local, Destination, Offline, Catering, Décor, and Planning Services
Local Wedding Services: Catering to couples opting for city- or state-based weddings, these services emphasize community vendors, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness. Small, intimate weddings with personalized touches and local cultural elements are increasingly favored.
Destination Wedding Services: Experiencing robust growth, this segment includes weddings at panoramic sites like Hawaii, California, and Florida. Bundled packages covering venue, lodging, catering, and entertainment appeal to couples seeking novel and serene experiences.
Offline Wedding Services: Despite digital planning gains, in-person services remain essential. Couples value face-to-face consultations, venue visits, and personal vendor meetings for hands-on management, ensuring tailored and smoothly executed events.
Wedding Catering Services: Catering plays a pivotal role in receptions, offering menus that accommodate diverse dietary preferences and cultural traditions. Emerging trends such as farm-to-table, vegan, and fusion cuisine reflect growing eco-consciousness and guest expectations.
Wedding Décor Services: The surge in themed weddings has driven demand for innovative décor styles like rustic, vintage, bohemian, and luxury settings. Personalized consultations, natural elements, and tech-driven lighting or interactive installations are increasingly popular.
Wedding Planning Services: Professional planners help couples manage budgets, vendors, and event logistics, reducing stress and enhancing efficiency. Growth in luxury, micro, and destination weddings has expanded this sector, with hybrid models combining online tools and personal consultations gaining traction.
This comprehensive forecast underscores a dynamic U.S. wedding services market, propelled by personalization trends, digital innovation, and expanding destination options, while navigating cost pressures and seasonal variability.
