It’s been almost 3 years since Melbourne concluded it’s 6th lockdown and the world has changed dramatically. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the Australian wedding industry, leading to notable changes in costs, guest numbers, planning durations, and other aspects of wedding celebrations. If you are in the midst of planning and wondering why things are so expensive; here’s a comparative overview of pre-COVID and post-COVID wedding statistics in Australia:
Average Wedding Cost
- Pre-COVID: In 2018, the average wedding in Australia cost approximately $24,562, increasing slightly to $25,679 in 2019. Emerald Bridal
- Post-COVID: By 2023, the average cost of an Australian wedding rose to $34,715. Forbes Australia 2024 saw the average spend rise again between $36,000 and $50,000 dependant on size and location, with over 50% of couples revealing they took out a loan to cover this.
Guest Count
- Pre-COVID: The average number of invited wedding guests was 91 in 2018 and 93 in 2019. Emerald Bridal
- Post-COVID: The desired guest count stands at 100; however, COVID saw the average guest count fall by 20% to 80 guests nationally. Easy Weddings By 2023, the average guest count further decreased to 88, down from 98 pre-COVID. Easy Weddings
Planning Duration
- Pre-COVID: Couples typically spent around 13.5 months planning their wedding. Wedded Wonderland
- Post-COVID: The average Australian couple is now engaged for 22 months, indicating an extended planning period, (likely due to the cost of living crisis.) Easy Weddings
Trends and Preferences
- Pre-COVID: Traditional large weddings with extensive guest lists were common, with an average of 3.7 bridesmaids and groomsmen. Wedded Wonderland
- Post-COVID: There’s a noticeable shift towards more intimate celebrations, such as elopements and micro-weddings, driven by rising costs and a desire for personalised experiences. Additionally, the average number of bridesmaids and groomsmen has decreased, reflecting a trend towards smaller bridal parties. Herald Sun
Impact of Rising Costs
The increasing cost of living has influenced couples to seek more affordable wedding options. For instance, the Brisbane Registry has seen a significant rise in wedding ceremonies, doubling since 2020, as couples opt for cost-effective solutions amid escalating wedding expenses.
Conclusion
The Australian wedding landscape has evolved considerably from pre-COVID times, with couples adapting to new financial realities and social norms. There’s a clear trend towards more intimate and cost-effective celebrations, extended planning periods, and a focus on personalised experiences. As the industry continues to adapt, couples are finding innovative ways to celebrate their unions amidst changing circumstances.