Even though consumers are tightening their purse strings, at least one segment of the purchasing public is not changing their particular spending habits: couples planning weddings.
In a poll taken last week on the popular wedding blog weddingbee.com, more than half of engaged brides (56%) say the current recession has no effect on their wedding budget. Many of those cite their already frugal ways and prior plans to have a simple wedding. “Recession or no, our plan was always to KISS --Keep It Simple Stupid. For us, it's about getting family together to celebrate a happy occasion.” says blog reader “cantabrigian”
For the other 44% of respondents who are making budget adjustments, they are doing it creatively. Some ingenious brides who do not want to compromise on the wedding they have long imagined for themselves are finding ways to lower their wedding costs instead. One message posted by “caliwed” shares her idea of using simpler versions of centerpieces by scouring thrift stores for glass vases. “We will have a unique, eclectic look”, she enthuses.
Others say that although the recession has made them more aware of people who may be going without, they are not “necessarily scaling back, but are more thoughtful of [our] decisions”, as posted by “quiche”. One way brides are giving more thought to their budget is by shopping around and finding deals, especially online.
“We recently added the Product Comparison tool and the Wish List tool on our website because it helps shoppers make better buying decisions,” says Vicky Yip, partner at the recently re-launched KismetGiftShop.com, which sells personalized wedding accessories and bridal party and groomsmen gifts. “Using the Product Comparison tool allows them to see the prices and details of our products side by side. The Wish List allows them to keep track of the products they like, so as they price shop on the internet, they can always come back to KismetGiftShop and view the items that they’ve put on their Wish List”, adds Yip.
Although there are plenty of tips out there for couples on a budget, most couples are not troubled by the downturn and are planning the walk down the aisle just the same, rain or shine.
