The Knot estimates that some 2.6 million weddings will take place this year, a boom that follows a record number of cancellations, postponements, elopements–and lots of Zoom nuptials–during the past two years.
“Weddings are, without a doubt, back to pre-pandemic levels,” says Hannah Nowack, Real Weddings editor at The Knot., wedding vendors, venues and planners note a return to traditional ceremonies with larger guest lists. In the second half of 2021, The Knot saw the average guest count climb up to 110. In 2022, the average number of guests is projected to be 129, which is in line with pre-pandemic numbers, when the average was 131.
Other trends include the rise of domestic destination weddings and weddings as multi-day events, which. Venues and hotels are now adjusting to the return of the big wedding, while still answering to the bride who craves an intimate gathering. Value-focused planning is another big priority for the newly engaged, especially for Millennial and Gen-Z couples. “Instead of simply seeing their nuptials as a fun celebration, they're also finding ways for the big day to leave a positive, lasting impact,” says Nowack.