Zola's hub for content related to The First Look Report. 

2022 is set to be one of the biggest wedding years ever. To paint a clear picture of what we can expect at weddings this year, __Zola surveyed 3,309 couples__ to figure out priorities, feelings, budgets, themes, values, and just what will make these weddings different than ever before. One major finding: __2022 weddings are personal, and they should be!__ Couples are really leaning into the whole “it’s your day” thing—and we’re thrilled to see it. Let’s dive in.

## After longer-than-average engagements, 2022 couples are planning with more intention, excitement, love and specificity than ever before. <a id="timeline"> </a>  

First thing’s first: __couples getting married in 2022 have been engaged on average 18 months.__ This is a huge shift from the average engagement length of 12 months prior to the pandemic. Most of these couples got engaged in December 2020 and hit the ground running with their wedding planning in January 2021. They made it through a pandemic together! And, surprisingly only 17% of 2022 weddings are postponements, so the vast majority of these couples (83%) purposefully spent extra time curating everything from their invite list to the invites themselves to the color scheme and vendors hired. 

- 40% feel more excited than ever and are counting down the days
- 42% say it’s more meaningful now to be able to celebrate with loved ones 
- 28% are just really ready to party
- 59% feel closer to their partner than ever after wedding planning together

What’s more: __25% of couples also let us know that they’re sharing the wedding planning responsibilities evenly with their partners.__ As it should be if you ask us, and that’s a trend that we hope continues to grow! 🥰 

## After a wait like that, it’s finally time to party—and couples are having on average 3+ celebrations in addition to the big day. 

__The other events couples are throwing:__

- Bach Party: 81%
- Rehearsal Dinner: 80%
- Wedding Shower: 68%
- Reception After Party: 37%
- Goodbye Brunch: 30%
- Engagement Party: 26%

## Guest lists are getting longer again, with couples more focused on who exactly they want to be surrounded by at all of their celebrations. <a id="guests"> </a>   

After all of this time spent planning, couples have some feelings on who should join their reception conga lines, and honestly, we’re here for it. There’s nothing worse than getting back an RSVP card with a handwritten “+4 please! 😊.” __Invite lists are getting longer again, with 2/3 of couples inviting 100+ guests. But, they’re not reverting back to exactly the way they were.__ Not only did the pandemic impact the way we love and wedding plan, but it amplified a desire for togetherness. It drove many of us closer together. We see this clearly reflected in wedding guest trends for the coming year. 

__The full invite count breakdown for 2022:__
- Keeping it small (under 30): 3%
- 30 - 50 guests: 4%
- 50 - 75 guests: 9%
- 75-100 guests: 17%
- 100 - 150 guests: 33%
- 50 - 200 guests: 22%
- 200+ guests: 13%

__Guest lists may also be growing again because when it comes to kids and +1s, couples are being generous, too.__

- 47% are inviting children and 10% of those are making it a family affair with their own children in attendance!
  - But 35% are requesting their guests get a sitter if they can. An additional 21% say absolutely do not bring your kids!
  - 62% are extending a +1 to anybody in a serious relationship
  - An additional 26% are extending +1s to any guest who wants one

That said, though, couples are still being intentional with their guest lists, reflecting on all relationships: __23% of couples are uninviting guests to their wedding, with four big reasons why:__

- #1 - The relationship has changed and they no longer want them in attendance
- #2 - They had to downsize their guest list
- #3 - They found their values no longer align with these guests 
- #4 - They did not feel that these guests were COVID-safe  

![state-of-weddings-report-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5Wd0JCLUIPXD1ke3DqQp33/d3be73a21933a524319260c2670d5e09/state-of-weddings-report-1.png)

## Weddings in 2022 cost anywhere from $5k - $100K, with more than ⅔ of couples going over their budgets <a id="budget"> </a>  

With a longer-than-usual engagement period combined with more time at home, there are plenty of opportunities to rethink and reprioritize wedding plans, and many couples are happy to stretch their budgets if it means wearing their dream attire, decorating with the lushest flowers (seasonal or not), or dancing to the most memorable DJ. __69% of couples are spending more $$$ than they originally budgeted__ for two main reasons.

- They found that wedding costs are more expensive than they anticipated
- They’re willing to spend more to get exactly what they want

It’s no wonder couples are a bit lost when it comes to budget planning. After all, most articles say the average cost is $30K for a wedding in NYC or Des Moines. We found that __27% of 2022 Zola couples have budgeted $10,000 - $20,000 and 31% have budgeted $20k-$40k, but otherwise, budgets are really stratified—from <$10K to >$100K.__ 

“Average” wedding costs are anything but average. When all unique wedding planning variables are considered—think location, seasonality, even personal vibe, plus current setbacks such as supply chain issues driven by the pandemic —the truth is that a dream wedding can happen for any amount of money. 

__Here's the full breakdown of spend from our survey: __
- $5,000 or less: 5%
- $5,000 - $10,000: 11%
- $10,000 - $15,000: 14%
- $15,000 - $20,000: 14%
- $20,000 - $30,000: 18% 
- $30,000 - $40,000: 13%
- $40,000 - $50,000: 9% 
- $50,000 - $75,000: 9%
- $75,000 - $100,000: 3%
- $100,000 or more: 2%
- Prefer not to answer: 2%

Yes, going over budget is scary, but hear us out. If you [do your research](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget), [talk to vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors?pkey=googlesem_desktop_brandphrase_np&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Brand%20(Phrase)&orderkey=googlesem_desktop_brandphrase_np&gclid=CjwKCAiAksyNBhAPEiwAlDBeLP48-GcauyK5yB-3q5MCYv4QrjSXFfnFdx-h1OnPMA2-a6ghLyBfChoC5t8QAvD_BwE) and other couples in your area, and make a list of priorities before you even start your planning, you’re much less likely to overdo it. It’s so important to start with a clear picture of what makes sense for your wedding goals and your area before you start writing any checks.

## Couples continue to cover their own wedding expenses, opting to invest in party elements and their dream vendors who also align with their values.

In 2022, ⅓ of couples are covering all of their wedding costs on their own, and another 41% of couples are paying in part. So, it’s a really big deal for these couples to be deciding to splurge, especially as many were also financially impacted by the pandemic and a wedding is not the only major expense on their plate. 

__Here’s what couples are most willing to splurge on:__
- Photographer: 73%
- Open bar: 60%
- Venue: 55%
- Attire (wedding dress, suit, shoes, etc.): 47%
- Catering: 42%
- Music: 38%
- Hair & Makeup: 31%
- Flowers: 27% 
- Videographer: 27%
- Cake: 14%

__And here are the other post-wedding priorities they’re focused on financially:__
- Travel & Honeymoon: 77%
- House / Apartment: 73%
- Student Loans: 47%
- Cars: 39%
- Other debt: 25%
- Starting a family (including fertility treatments): 23%
- Other medical expenses: 10%
- A child: 10%
- Other large purchase: 3%

__56% of couples also said they’re intentionally speaking with their wallets when it comes to choosing vendors.__ Many view their weddings as an opportunity to support small businesses in their local area, as well as an opportunity to highlight vendors who align with their own values.

![state-of-weddings-report-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4J3051QxqPqBF9qZkyc0V5/7c558811bb2d1e8254f65b13b6646ad1/state-of-weddings-report-2.png)

## Specificity is the theme of 2022 weddings. <a id="themes"> </a>

These weddings are going to be specific—really specific. Let’s take wedding colors, for example. Yes, moody earth tones are in for 2022, but we’re not just talking “brown” and “green” here. When given the option of every color in the rainbow on our survey, __31% of couples wrote in to tell us exactly which shade they’re going with.__ We said “red” and they said “burgundy,” “maroon,” “sangria,'' “wine,” “oxblood,” “cabernet,” “chianti” … you get it. 

__So, the Top 2022 Wedding Colors are:__
- Reds: (see above)
- Greens, but really: sage, olive, hunter, emerald, and eucalyptus 
- Blues, but really: navy, dusty blue, turquoise, and teal
- Pinks, but really: blush, mauve, dusty rose, desert rose, coral, and peach
- Metallics, but really: champagne, copper, gold, rose gold, silver, and bronze
- Oranges, but really: terracotta, rust, burnt orange, cinnamon, and clay

__Pro Tip:__ Whether they’re searching for an exact color name or a family of shades, couples can find inspiration featuring their favorite hues via [Real Weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspiration) on Zola. Seriously, even “[eucalyptus](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding/eucalyptus-lace-infused-santa-barbara-soiree).”

And it doesn’t stop there. __36% of couples are opting for a personal wedding theme__—and they know exactly what they want and are letting their personalities shine through. We’re talking everything from “light Jurassic Park theme” to “witchy meets European countryside” and “night out in Brooklyn” to “classy Carnival.”

## The strong opinions extend to tech, too—and couples are on both sides of the aisle.<a id="tech"> </a>  

It wouldn’t be a 2022 wedding survey without some mention of how tech is playing a role in these ceremonies. __26% of 2022 couples met on dating apps__, so these weddings truly wouldn’t even be possible without the wonders of modern technology! But, __couples are divided on how to incorporate tech to balance between sharing their dream day and making sure everyone stays present to enjoy it__.

- 44% of couples have a wedding hashtag (and when your theme is “midcentury starburst,” you better ✨)
- 40% are asking guests to completely disconnect (which after nearly two years on Zoom, we really get)
- 11% are streaming their wedding to loved ones who can’t attend in person
- 7% are using a QR code in some way 
- And of course, 100% are doing a lot of wedding planning online (through Zola!)

Couples are [connecting with vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), [sending digital save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/digital/save-the-date/shop), [ordering invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop), and shopping for their [registries online](https://www.zola.com/registry) more now than ever before, and they’re constantly looking for new ways to automate the planning process. All of the new innovation in the world of wedding technology is only making wedding planning easier and more fun, giving couples more time to focus on what matters most—being in love!

![state-of-weddings-report-3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/72oIweEK7igeSUXhPMSod6/b6dcd4737c55944898d36f38448bd120/state-of-weddings-report-3.png)

## Traditions are taking new forms as couples personalize their ceremonies.<a id="trad"> </a>  

If 2022 weddings are more unique and more personal, what does that mean for traditions? __Because 2022 weddings are such a personal reflection, couples are pretty divided on the value of the traditional American wedding customs*.__

- 53% find value in participating in the same traditions as family & friends
- 41% are indifferent
- 15% find them outdated

We found that couples are cherry-picking one or two traditions that they like—and finding new traditions to replace the ones they’re leaving behind. Plus, __43% are incorporating at least one or a few meaningful cultural traditions.__ That’s everything from chuppahs to Chinese tea ceremonies to Celtic handfasting. 

In fact, 20% of couples are hosting multipart celebrations and 28% of those couples are doing so just for cultural or tradition-based reasons. The others are splitting their ceremonies up for COVID safety (21%) or for financial reasons (12%).

__It’s also worth mentioning that ⅓ of couples say they feel some level of pressure to incorporate traditions by their family, friends, partner, or culture/society in general.__ Hey, for a lot of couples, wedding planning comes with a bit of outside influence—it’s totally normal. 

![state-of-weddings-report-4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/14sfYq9S2XEHt6kfxQrXL2/dbf79c05ecaa7cc98e6b1557095fc211/state-of-weddings-report-4.png)

* We defined these as the customary traditions associated with American weddings that are not specific to an individual’s culture, religion, or family traditions. These include (but are not limited to) bouquet & garter tosses; being walked down the aisle by father/parent; something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue; etc.

__Want to see all the data? Contact press@zola.com for a full breakdown and for any other media inquiries. __

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Surveys

The First Look Report 2022

The First Look Report

There are a lot of factors that determine the overall vibe of your big day. Details such as your venue, season, and color palette serve as the foundation for other decisions, such as florals and invitation design. Although you may already have your heart set on a particular venue and time frame for your wedding, you and your partner may be having trouble pinpointing your wedding colors.

[Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) polled over 3,300 couples who weighed in on the tones for their big day, so take cues from our findings and gain inspiration from the top wedding colors [for 2022](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-future-of-weddings-according-to-wedding-vendors).

## Two 2022 Color Trends to Watch

Before delving into the top hues for 2022 weddings, a few overall trends are consistent among modern couples.

### __Couples are getting specific with their 2022 wedding color palettes.__ <a id="detail"> </a>  

Although choosing one or two shades is perfectly acceptable, today’s brides and grooms are honing in on very specific palettes. Zola’s respondents were extremely detailed when chatting about their color schemes.

One couple noted that their big day would feature hues of gold, ivory, plum, midnight, forest green, and lilac. Another duo said that their day would have nods to muted bohemian tones; they chose shades of muted pink, rose gold, quicksand, rose, and white [coupled with florals](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/decor-inspiration/flowers) of pampas grass, Ruscus, and orchids. It’s not necessary to be ultra-specific, but don’t be afraid to really hone in on an entire scheme.

### __Muted, earthy tones prove to be a favorite for 2022 weddings.__ <a id="muted"> </a>  
Over the past few years, the rise of [boho weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-throw-a-boho-chic-wedding) has brought deep, natural tones to the forefront. Although these colors are generally associated with the bohemian style, the color palette transcends being one-note. From formal galas to backyard micro-weddings, muted, earthy colors are in the spotlight. Additionally, think beyond red, orange, and green to include blues, metallics, and lush neutrals. 

However, not all couples use boho-inspired palettes. In 2022, there will be a rise in weddings inspired by fall colors, jewel tones, tropical hues, and rainbow-inspired color schemes. No matter your style, the 2022 trending wedding colors are full of inspiration, so pick the shades that showcase your personality as a couple. 

## Top 5 Wedding Colors for 2022

### __Reds__
If you love red, this is your year, especially if you adore deep, tonal hues. Red doesn’t necessarily mean the bright shade used for lipstick, so think a bit darker. Burgundy and its offshoots, such as maroon, sangria, oxblood, wine, mulberry, cabernet, and chianti, are trending. Deep reds are lovely any time of the year, although they’re perfect for fall and [winter weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/winter-wedding-favors). 

### __Oranges__
Deep tones take center stage when it comes to orange hues. Cinnamon, clay, terracotta, rust, and burnt orange are gorgeous and blend well with other colors. However, don’t relegate oranges to [fall weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fall-wedding-flowers), as the shade will have a presence in 2022 weddings all year long. Plus, terracotta and cinnamon hues can serve as accents in combination with other wedding colors. 

### __Greens__
When it comes to green, there is no limit to the depth of the tone. Light, dark, and bold green hues are stylish for 2022 weddings. Couples are adding sage, hunter, olive, eucalyptus, and emerald tones into their wedding color palettes. Green acts as a neutral, so lush greenery can be inexpensive and perfect for adding dimension to your bouquets and wedding centerpieces.

### __Blues__
Like greens, 2022’s trending blue tones vary in pigment, some of which skew a bit towards a green color. Authentic blues, such as navy and dusty blue, can soften a wedding. In comparison, brighter tones of teal and turquoise can add pops of unexpected color on their own or when combined with other hues. 

### __Metallics__<a id="metal"> </a>  
Champagne, copper, gold, silver, bronze, rose gold—[if it’s metallic](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-incorporate-copper-accents-into-your-wedding-theme), it’s trending. Metal tones are easy to incorporate into weddings—think accessories, decor elements, and ribbon—and 2022 is here for it. So, pick a metallic style, and weave it throughout your special day. Every wedding deserves a bit of shine, from simple events to formal black-tie affairs. 

## Top Companion Tones for 2022 Weddings
While some colors are in the spotlight, a few tones are perfect at taking a backseat and allowing other shades to shine. 2022 is seeing the emergence of couples using a few trending hues that blend flawlessly with just about any color palette. 

- __Navy -__ Couples are using this deep blue color to pair with burgundy, rose gold, and noir.
- __Champagne -__ This barely-there tone accents most other colors, but 2022 couples adore champagne with rust, taupe, emerald, merlot, ivory, and different neutral hues.
- __Sage -__ For your 2022 wedding, blend the light, leafy green of sage with rust, tan, blush, taupe, dusty blue, and terracotta tones.
- __Gold -__ Because gold is metallic, it is widely used and consistently paired with coral, olive, and burgundy in the upcoming year.

## 2022 Wedding Color Trends by the Numbers
Beyond the trending color palettes, Zola’s couples weighed in on the individual shades that they’ll be including on their big day. Over 30 percent of 2022 couples said that they were using green and blue. White was the frontrunner, making an appearance in almost 40 percent of weddings, making sense as it’s a color traditionally associated with the wedding day. Pink also had a surprisingly high response, with nearly 25 percent of couples saying that they would include it in their 2022 wedding color palette. 

The least popular colors were yellow (only appearing in eight percent of weddings) and brown, chosen by only three percent of couples. Although brides and grooms are very detailed with their 2022 wedding color palettes, there are still five-and-a-half percent of duos that are undecided about their color scheme. Additionally, seven percent are opting out of having any specific palette.

Choose colors that you love, no matter your take on the trending wedding colors for 2022. Consequently, if you’re undecided, let Zola help. Get specific [palette inspiration](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now), learn how to [choose your wedding colors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-colors), or pick the quintessential [colors for your wedding season](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/summer-wedding-colors-to-celebrate-the-season). Zola’s expert advice section has all you need to plan your big day from start to finish, using beautiful tones for the perfect wedding.


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Wedding Style

Your wedding day allows you the opportunity to showcase your personality as a couple, which comes through best in your [overall theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/luxurious-wedding-themes-and-ideas). Some folks go with a classic, elegant feel, while some couples opt for romantic, boho vibes. Still, others go all out and showcase their love for sports, pets, or a favorite hobby via their wedding day theme. So, if you’re trying to pinpoint the overall motif for your big day, take cues from other couples. Zola polled over 3,300 duos in its [First Look Report ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022)to find out the top wedding themes for 2022, and the ones that came out on top may surprise you.

## Why Choose a Wedding Theme? <a id="themes"> </a>  
It’s not 100 percent necessary to select an [overarching vibe](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/sophisticated-wedding-styles-we-love) for your big day; however, doing so can ensure that your wedding is cohesive. Having a clearly defined theme—for example, rustic—can help you weigh your decisions. If you love a set of classic, gold candelabras, you can ask yourself if they fit in with a rustic vibe. Of course, you can mix and match pieces for an eclectic feel, but having a clear viewpoint can help keep things consistent while planning your special day.

A few of the 2022 top wedding themes reign in a big way, although the main takeaway is that couples are very intentional with every detail of their wedding day. From florals and cakes, to invitations and wedding favors, brides and grooms are personalizing their themes to the fullest. In addition, today’s couples aren’t shy to take popular wedding themes and hone in to make them their own.

## Popular Themes for 2022 Weddings<a id="trends"> </a>  
The top wedding themes for 2022 are romantic and classic, but earthy and rustic vibes are also top trends. Here’s a breakdown of what Zola’s polled couples are including in next year’s weddings.

### __Romantic__
Yes, weddings are all about love and romance, but 34 percent of couples are giving their special day romantic vibes. However, before you think that this theme is an explosion of Valentine’s Day decorations, [true romance](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/romantic-and-private-proposal-ideas) takes a more ethereal turn—think lace details, loads of tulle, Cinderella-like wedding gowns, and keeping things soft and sweet for 2022 weddings.

### __Classic__
Also known as an elegant or traditional theme, many couples are choosing to have a big day full of classic elements. Thirty-two percent, in fact! If you crave a black and white palette, or glamorous details that aren’t overdone, this theme may be for you. [Classic weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/classic-romantic-weddings-on-budget) are timeless—think Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelley—and look like they could occur during any period.

### __Rustic__
Barn weddings, earthy tones, and relaxed vibes exude a rustic style. Midway between boho and romantic, having a [rustic wedding theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-look-for-in-a-rustic-wedding-venue) is perfect for couples who want to blend styles. This flexibility is why 31 percent of 2022 couples are selecting this vibe for their big day. But, of course, the venue choice dictates this theme, so keep this in mind if you crave a rustic feel.

### __Boho__
Giving nods to the bohemian styles of the 1970s—think bell-sleeved gowns, macrame details, and lots of plants—[boho](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-throw-a-boho-chic-wedding) has been one of the most popular themes in the past few years. Although its popularity is waning a bit, almost 17 percent of couples are still choosing boho wedding trends for their day. Many of these events occur outdoors, the perfect setting for authentic bohemian vibes.

### __Modern__
Part-classic, part-trendy, a true modern wedding theme blends timeless elements with cutting-edge trends from today; and 12 percent of couples are here for it. Also defined by clean lines, luxe elements, and fashion-forward color palettes, [modern weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/modern-wedding-dress-styles) can be pared down or ultra-glam. The flexibility within this 2022 wedding trend is why it’s appealing to so many couples. 

### __Seasonal__
Going with a seasonal wedding can be loads of fun, especially if you capitalize on what the earth is already producing. If you go with a [harvest](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-fall-wedding-themes) or winter-themed wedding day, chances are that your venue may be seasonally decorated, which can help cut costs. Couples are also going beyond simply using seasonal decor by honing in on in-season food, color palettes, and florals. Almost 12 percent of couples are incorporating seasonal trends into their 2022 weddings.

### __Minimalist__
Scaled-back, yet quality details perfectly describe the minimalist wedding trend. Although there may be fewer decor elements, decorations are high-quality and worth focusing on. In addition, nine-and-a-half percent of couples are keeping things simple, yet elegant on their big day. Often the [minimalistic style ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/having-a-minimalist-wedding-a-guide)includes geometric shapes and metallic tones.

### __Natural__
Almost nine percent of couples are going natural with their wedding day, but what does this 2022 wedding trend mean? Many are intentional about going eco-friendly and using natural elements that are kind to the environment. Going green has been a growing trend as folks consider their impact on the earth. Quite often a [nature-inspired](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/nature-wedding-themes-we-love) or muted palette accompanies a natural wedding theme. 

## How Couples are Personalizing Top Wedding Themes for 2022<a id="creative"> </a>  
Beyond an overarching idea, couples are using these top 2022 wedding themes as a springboard to go deeper. Use these ideas from Zola’s polled couples to inspire your specific vibe. You can apply most of these personalizations to any overall theme. 

### __Include Elements from Nature__
Some couples are taking color cues from nature, and others are going all-out with their micro-themes by including greenery in decor that includes sunflowers or tropical florals. Zola’s couples are adding fun spins on nature with themes such as summer camp, mountain sunset, garden party, and enchanted forest. One couple noted that they were using a “witchy meets European countryside” scheme, which sounds divine.

### __Head to the Sky With Celestial Vibes__
Whether you’re marrying under a night sky or want to include starry details, couples are going celestial for their 2022 weddings. Some are taking cues from astronomy, and others are capitalizing on a night under the stars. One duo loved this theme so much that they said, “We’re getting married under May’s flower moon in a planetarium/space museum.” That’s the beauty of having a theme; you can go all out and make it a focus or simply give nods to it on your 2022 wedding day. 

### __Give Nods to a Particular Era__
Vintage vibes are all the rage, and it’s no wonder, as some eras burst with inspiration. Couples getting married in 2022 are including 70s retro and 80s arcade vibes. Another popular wedding theme for 2022 is the quintessential 1920s flapper-style Gatsby theme. If you go vintage, you don’t have to mimic an era fully, but you can include elements from the decade that inspire you.

### __Channel Your Inner Fan__ 
Whether you love books or movies, build upon a fandom for your wedding day. Some couples are going literary with themes surrounding “Alice in Wonderland,” “Harry Potter,” and “The Wizard of Oz.” Others are inspired by film and are gaining inspiration from “Jurassic Park,” Disney, “Star Wars,” Marvel, and “Shrek.” Although couples are utilizing these genres, many clarified to say that they were “lightly” using the trend. So, feel free to give nods to a fandom and not make your big day a total sci-fi fest—although kudos if you do.

Your big day reflects you and your significant other, so feel free to make your big day your own. Trends will always ebb and flow, so choose one that is meaningful to you, or branch out and do something different. No matter what, Zola is here to help you orchestrate your big day. From information on [wedding themes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/10-classic-wedding-themes) to a [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-start-creating-a-wedding-budget-right-now), Zola has it all, so use Zola’s resources to plan efficiently.


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Zola wedding website as seen on a laptop computer

How To Create Your Beautiful Wedding Website: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you get engaged, amidst the excitement, your head swirls with all of the to-dos—including hiring vendors. From a photographer and wedding planner to the caterer and florist, you probably already know what wedding professionals you need. However, some couples are going beyond simply hiring vendors by investing in luxe packages and add-ons to create a truly unique wedding day. Zola surveyed over 3,300 duos in the [First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) to find out where they were allocating their funds, and here are 11 vendors that couples are splurging on in 2022. 

## Why Are Couples Splurging on Their 2022 Weddings? 
While 2022 brides and grooms are looking forward to booking essential vendors, many are spending more to make their day even more memorable. After 18 months of uncertainty surrounding weddings and events, couples are finally ready to host a big bash with all the bells and whistles. 

<a id="invest"> </a>  
Of those surveyed, the average [engagement period](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-announce-your-engagement) is 18 months, so couples have been planning and budgeting for extras. However, a surprising 70 percent are spending more than they originally budgeted for their big day. Why? Well, some underestimated the cost of their wedding; others want to invest more to get precisely what they want. Although they are choosing vendors and services carefully, next year’s couples are more than willing to spend a bit more in areas that pack a punch. 

## Vendors Worth the Splurge for 2022 Weddings <a id="choose"> </a> 

### Photographer <a id="upgrade"> </a>  
[Photographers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-photographer) document your big day from start to finish. In addition, their talents leave you with photos to keep in your home and pass down to future generations. A general contract with a photographer includes a dedicated number of hours of coverage, editing, and an online gallery.

73 percent of couples are choosing to invest more in their photography packages. These upgrades can include additional coverage for an extended period, a second (or third!) shooter, prints, albums, and extra sessions, such as an engagement or bridal photoshoot. Investing in these moments and their accompanying keepsakes is a wise idea for those who are sentimental or love heirlooms. 

### Bar Services
Good news! If you’re attending a 2022 wedding, chances are there will be [an open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide), as 60 percent of couples are splurging in this area. Offering free-flowing cocktails, beer, and wine is a way to keep guests happy and the party going. Finally, folks are ready to celebrate after months of quarantining and being separated from family and friends. And the increase in bar services is evidence of that fact. So instead of a cash or ticketed bar, treat guests to a whole mix of drinks during your reception. Or splurge on a custom cocktail created by your bartender.

### Venue
Whether your wedding is small or large, [your venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-when-touring-a-wedding-venue) sets the tone for your special day. As a result, couples are opting to spend more by booking their chosen location. These upgrades vary depending on the services your venue already offers. However, add-ons, such as extra planning services, booking the venue longer, and staying on-site (if there is lodging), are why 55 percent of brides and grooms are increasing their budgets.

### Attire
If you haven’t seen folks for months (or years!), you want to look your best. Therefore, 47 percent of couples go beyond wearing an off-the-rack gown and renting a tux. Of course, both of those choices are perfectly fine. However, if you want to splurge on your attire, think about going with an independent wedding gown designer or having a dress commissioned. Another option is to invest in quality suiting over [renting a tux](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-grooms-attire?_branch_match_id=link-861577124775035459). Attire expenditures also include springing for luxe shoes and other accessories, such as elaborate headpieces and jewelry to wear long past the big day. 

### Catering
Feed them, and feed them well is becoming the mantra for 42 percent of couples. Instead of just satiating guests, brides and grooms are getting creative with their [catering choices](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer). People are working with their chefs to personalize meals, include foods of the highest quality, and create a gourmet experience.

Budgeting more for your catering can mimic a fine restaurant meal and encourage guests to linger. However, couples are also getting creative with add-ons for their big day and by offering food beyond the reception. These ideas are simple to implement in 2022 weddings and will keep your loved ones fed all day. For example, greet guests with appetizers, extend the cocktail hour, and have food trucks provide sustenance during the open bar. 

### Music
iPhone playlist, move over: There’s a new trend in town. [Music](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/first-dance-song-ideas-for-your-wedding) is an area where 38 percent of couples are increasing their budgets. If you love music, hire live acts throughout your day. Have a cellist and soloist for your ceremony and a string quartet for your processional and recessional. Keep the reception floor hopping by hiring a live band to provide dance tunes. If you’re hiring a DJ, think about extending their hours or having them mix different songs to splurge a bit. 

### Hair and Makeup
Beyond attire, 31 percent of those getting married in 2022 are spending more on their look. Instead of doing their own looks, brides and grooms are hiring experts to get the job done. It’s a wise choice, as these professionals can create a look that will last all day. Beyond simply commissioning [makeup artists and hairstylists](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-hair-and-makeup-costs), couples are booking extra services, such as fresh cuts and color, along with complicated updos and luxe makeup looks. Others are spending money to treat their bridal party to have their hair and makeup professionally done.

### Videographer
Photos are necessary, as they capture glimpses of time, but [videography](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/10-questions-to-ask-your-wedding-videographer) is a whole new level of documentation. You can see your partner crack a smile or a tear roll down your grandmother’s cheek. The sentimental moments caught on film are precious, and 27 percent of couples are here for it. Some are simply splurging to include videography. Conversely, others are booking luxe video packages that include extra hours, full-day documentation, and detailed trailers of their big day.

### Florists
One of the most high-impact ways you can make a difference in a hurry is to up the ante with [your florals](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-most-popular-wedding-flowers). As a result, 27 percent of brides and grooms are adding more blooms into their day. Think outside the norm—bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, and corsages—to include extra florals. From ceremony backdrops and arches to photo booth floral installations, flowers are everywhere for 2022 weddings. Not only are there more blooms, but 2022 couples are having their florist use luxe and out-of-season flowers for extra panache.

### Desserts
The capstone dessert of the wedding day is [the cake](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs), of course. Therefore, folks are getting more detailed with these edible masterpieces. Brides and grooms are asking their bakers to make individual desserts, such as mini cakes, for their guests. They are also including baked goods as favors and creating dessert stations curated by their bakers. Cakes and desserts are where 14 percent of couples are choosing to spend more.

### Extras<a id="extra"> </a>  
Of course, there are non-necessities for your wedding day that can be considered a splurge. As a result, couples are opting for these more personal elements to go the extra mile. Things from decor pieces and specialty rentals to [luxury transportation](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/transportation-ideas-to-match-your-wedding-theme) are essential to couples getting married in 2022. Some are also spending more to create an experience by having pie bars, whiskey tasting, and artisan performers at receptions. 

There may be a bit of wiggle room to include the details you crave, no matter your budget. But, just because something is considered a splurge doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to have your dream wedding. Zola can help you plan your day and [stay on budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) with all the advice you need from the experts. 

Questions to Ask Your Vendors Before Booking Them

5 Questions to Ask All Your Wedding Vendors

7 Wedding Vendors You Might Forget to Tip

10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Videographer

Exactly How Far Out to Book Each Wedding Vendor

Hiring Vendors

The Vendors Couples are Splurging on in 2022

Going into 2022, engaged couples are being more intentional with their weddings than ever. Desires are shifting, decisions are being given more consideration, and the details are more personalized. It’s clear that couples want a celebration that truly represents them. This is perhaps most evident in the [themes ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/10-tips-on-how-to-choose-the-right-wedding-theme)they’re picking. 

In fact, a fifth of those surveyed for [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) wrote in to share their unique 2022 wedding theme. If you’re one of many looking for a theme that showcases your personalities and interests, we’ve laid out an easy, step-by-step process just for you. Find helpful questions, tips, and inspiration below.

## What’s a Wedding Theme?<a id="help"> </a>
A wedding theme is a visual guide that connects all different aspects of your wedding, from decor to attire and even your paper suite and wedding website. Oftentimes a wedding theme can be executed with a simple color palette and small nods to the source of inspiration. Other times, however, it can be incredibly specific and immersive. Neither is better than the other—it all comes down to what ambiance you and your partner want to create.

## How’s Having a Theme Helpful?<a id="connect"> </a>
Whether it’s extremely apparent or all in the details, having a theme can do you wonders throughout the wedding planning process. For starters, it can help guide you towards the look and feel that you want both your ceremony and reception to have. The more specific, the better. 

For example, searching for ’nature themed wedding inspiration’ will likely leave you with countless interpretations, providing little help. ‘Luxury Italian garden party’ (a real Zola couple’s own wedding theme), on the other hand, will give you more specific elements, like historic architecture, tons of greenery, luxurious fountains, and vintage glassware. It paints a clearer picture. Once you have the language to describe what you’re going for, it’s much easier to seek it out. Planning is then much more efficient, since you can narrow down which location, venue, and vendors are best suited to realize your vision.

Having a theme is also a big help to [your vendors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/info-to-have-before-contacting-vendors). Providing one (and some additional description) allows them to accurately picture and execute what you want—and even suggest new ideas and alternatives. For smooth communication with potential vendors, we recommend having a clear theme already in mind. In many cases, a mood board that displays how you imagine your theme can also be very helpful.

## Finding a Theme That Showcases Your Personalities<a id="find"> </a>  
Because the opportunities are basically endless, picking your own wedding theme can be a bit overwhelming. You may feel additional pressure, due to the desire to choose one that highlights your relationship and individual personalities in a special way. 

Fear not. Before you jump to search engines and Pinterest boards, take a step back and reflect on your relationship. Odds are there’s much more to work with and get excited about than you think. Having trouble getting started? Grab a pen (or open your phone notes), and take yourselves through the following easy steps.

### 1. Reflect on Where You’ve Been
We mean this literally—take some time to brainstorm your favorite places. These could be significant to your relationship, such as where you met, had your first date, or proposed, or something as simple as your favorite library, museum, or hiking spot. Of course, you can also go big and discuss your favorite vacation locales and [travel spots](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/around-the-world-wedding-theme). 

Think of the places that hold your favorite memories or excite you both. The locations where you feel most in love or at home together. Do any have an aesthetic you particularly love? Do a series of these places share similar visual qualities? If so, these are great things to draw upon when considering wedding themes. Referencing a much loved spot speaks to your likes and history as a couple.

### 2. Consider Your Shared Interests and Hobbies <a id="consider"> </a>  
Your wedding is an opportune time to showcase your shared interests and hobbies. If referencing a location seems too broad or isn’t sparking any inspiration, begin to think of the things you love to do together. Couples who enjoy the arts can lean into *A Night at the Theatre*, with formal attire, wedding programs reminiscent of theatre playbills or programs, and music from some of your favorite musicals. 

The couple who loves reading together may opt for* [Vintage](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-pull-off-a-vintage-wedding) and Literature* (another Zola couple’s own theme), with stacked book centerpieces, your favorite quotes featured on signage,a typewriter guestbook, or even a library or bookstore venue. Known for taking camping trips? Infuse the nature and lifestyle aspects into your florals, decor, food, and activities. Whatever your interest, it can be featured here and there, if not totally tapped into.

### 3. Revisit Your Favorite Books, Films, and Television Shows
Take to your bookshelves, Letterboxd accounts, and Netflix catalogues. We’re seeing more and more wedding themes based off of beloved books,[ movies](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/movie-wedding-themes-we-love), and TV shows. From *Little Women* meets cottagecore, to hints of *Game of Thrones*, to full-force *[Star Wars](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-star-wars-themed-wedding)*. If there’s a series, franchise, or standalone that you both go back to time and time again, it can be fun and heartwarming to center your theme on it. Just consider how it’ll translate visually on your wedding day and if you’re both on board with that (and how much).

### 4. Look at the Patterns and Themes Present in Your Life
Put plainly, look at your things. Your wedding theme doesn’t need to be tied to a super specific memory or location to showcase your personalities. It can, instead, capture a look and vibe that feels like you. Take a good look at your living spaces, wardrobes, and treasured items. Take note of the aesthetic qualities you’re already naturally drawn to. This could be plaids, natural materials, and scenic photographs that can translate to a cozy cabin-style theme. Elegant florals, crisp lines, and soft neutrals that harken back to that Italian garden party theme we mentioned. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the individual items we add to our everyday lives. Take a wider look and see if there are any patterns or themes you’d like to work with and emphasize on your special day.

## Need Help Bringing Your Theme to Life? Look to Zola
Once you’ve landed on a theme, it’s never too early to incorporate it into wedding planning. In fact, it’s in your best interest to include it in your save the dates and wedding website. Doing so gives your guests an idea of what to expect, which will not only get them excited for the day, but aid them in knowing how to dress. For easy-to-customize options with a wide range of themes, look no further than your Zola wedding planning tools. Once you’ve signed up (if you haven’t already), navigate to [Invites + Paper](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) or [Website](https://www.zola.com/wedding/manage/website/manage) to browse a variety of user-friendly templates suitable for every couple’s needs.

Wedding Theme that Highlights Your Personalities

20 Classic Wedding Theme Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration

south asian indian wedding couple holding hands

10 Traditional Wedding Gifts from Around the World

10 Tips on How to Choose the Right Wedding Theme

10 Creative Wedding Themes

How to Pick a Wedding Theme that Highlights Your Personalities

There are a lot of questions that come up for couples during the [wedding planning process](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)—whether that’s questions about [which type of wedding venue to book](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you), whom to ask to be in the [wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/build-the-perfect-wedding-party), or how to [find the perfect wedding photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-photographer).

But, out of all of the questions that may come up while [planning a wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) in the coming year, the question that comes up the most for couples is, without a doubt, “How much do weddings cost in 2022?”

For [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), we asked over 3,300 engaged individuals for their insights into all things wedding planning, including how much they’re planning to spend. Let’s take a look at what they had to say—and what weddings will really cost in 2022:

## What Will the Average Wedding Cost in 2022?<a id="budgets"> </a>  

Let’s jump right into it—what will the average wedding cost in 2022?

And the answer is: __it depends.__

<a id="top"> </a>  
According to the survey, __28 percent of couples are budgeting between $10,000 and $20,000 for their big day__—making that budgetary range the most common for a wedding in 2022. But, as a whole, the amount that couples were willing to pay for their weddings were all over the map—with budgets ranging from $5,000 all the way to $100,000-plus.

For example, __16 percent of couples budgeted less than $10,000__ for their wedding, which could, for example, cover costs for a backyard ceremony or a small celebration at a local recreation center. But, __12 percent of couples budgeted between $50,000 and $100,000__ for their wedding, which would, in most places, take care of an event at an upscale wedding venue for a sizable guest list. And __two percent of respondents budgeted over $100,000__ for their wedding, which, depending on the wedding size, could pay for a destination wedding in some of the world’s most exclusive locales.

And even when couples have a [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) in mind, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the amount they ultimately pay for their wedding will align with that budget. __A whopping 70 percent of couples are spending more on their 2022 weddings than originally planned.__ And, while some of the reasons for [going over-budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/7-reasons-you-may-go-over-your-wedding-budget-and-how-to-not) are more evergreen (for example, underestimating how much they’ll need to spend), others are more 2022-specific—like supply chain issues driving up the cost of wedding-related items.

The bottom line is that there is no “average” cost for a wedding; your wedding costs will depend on what kind of wedding you want to have (and how well you stick to your budget). In 2022, you can plan an unforgettable wedding, no matter what kind of budget you’re working with.

## How Are Couples Paying for Their Weddings in 2022?<a id="split"> </a>  

Now that you understand how much couples are budgeting for their weddings in 2022, let’s jump into how they plan to cover those costs.

__The most common way that couples are paying for their weddings in 2022 is by sharing the costs with their parents and/or in-laws.__ However, more couples are opting to pay for the wedding themselves, with __37 percent of survey respondents reporting that they’re planning to pay for everything related to their wedding entirely on their own.__ Six percent of respondents have even gotten second or third jobs to cover wedding costs!

Some couples are also becoming strategic to cover wedding costs; eight percent of respondents said they were optimizing credit cards to pay for their wedding (for example, by using a card that offers cash back or points that they can utilize for their honeymoon).

## Couples are Willing to Splurge for a Memorable Wedding<a id="splurge"> </a>  

Sticking to a wedding budget is important; however, __in 2022, many couples are willing to splurge a bit,__ particularly if those splurges will make their big day more fun, engaging, and memorable for them and their guests.

When asked as to which category they’d be willing to spend more in order to get exactly what they want, 73 percent of respondents cited the wedding photographer as their ultimate splurge. Sixty percent said that they’d be willing to splurge on an [open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide), while 55 percent and 47 percent would spend more on their wedding venue and attire, respectively.

## Budget for Post-Wedding Expenses 

Weddings are a significant expense for couples, but, in 2022, couples are also thinking about what comes after the wedding—and are budgeting accordingly. 

- 73 percent of couples said that, in addition to budgeting for the wedding, they were also setting aside money for the honeymoon. 
- 73 percent said that they were budgeting for a house or apartment—whether that meant buying a new place, renovating their current place, or moving into a larger rental. 

Other financial priorities for couples in 2022 include starting a family (23 percent of couples are putting aside money to cover the costs associated with starting a family, including fertility treatments), paying off debt (47 percent are budgeting for student loans, while 25 percent are working towards paying down other debt), a car (39 percent), and medical expenses (10 percent). 

## Plan Your Dream Wedding in 2022

When you’re planning your wedding, it’s only natural to wonder what other couples are paying for their weddings. If the wide range of wedding budgets in 2022 has anything to teach us, it’s this: There is no “perfect” price for a wedding. Instead, set a budget that you’re comfortable with—and then use that budget to plan the perfect wedding for *you*.


How to Balance Budgeting for Your Wedding and Budgeting for Everything Else

Optimizing Credit Cards for Wedding Spending

Pros and Cons of Optimizing Credit Cards for Wedding Spending

Budgeting

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life—and, in most cases, it’s also one of the most expensive. According to Zola’s First Look Report, which surveyed over 3,300 engaged couples for their insights into all things weddings in 2022 (including wedding budgets), couples are planning to spend anywhere between $5,000 and $100,000 on their weddings—with 28 percent of couples planning to spend between $10,000 and $20,000 on their big day (making $10K to $20K the most common [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) for 2022).

No matter how much couples have set aside for their big day, most are finding that their weddings are costing more than they anticipated—and, as such, a whopping 70 percent are spending more than they originally budgeted for their wedding.

Clearly, weddings cost a solid chunk of change (and, in most cases, more than the chunk of change that you think they’re going to cost). But, [planning for a wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) doesn’t mean that the rest of your expenses disappear; so, if you want to enter your marriage in a good financial place, you need to figure out a way to balance budgeting for your *wedding* with budgeting for *everything else*.

How, exactly, do you do that?

## What Are Engaged Couples Budgeting for in 2022?

Before we jump into how to balance budgeting your wedding with budgeting for all the other expenses in your life, let’s quickly touch on the expenses that couples will be trying to balance in 2022.

According to [Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), in 2022, couples will be trying to navigate paying for their weddings alongside budgeting for a variety of other major expenses, including:

- __The honeymoon__. For many couples, the wedding is only the first part of the celebration, as seventy-seven percent are also budgeting to cover [honeymoon-related costs](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/save-money-on-honeymoon).
- __Housing__. You need a place to live after your wedding—and, as such, most couples are trying to balance their wedding budget with their housing budget. Seventy-three percent of surveyed engaged people reported that they are budgeting for a house or apartment (for example, buying a new home or renovating their existing home).
- __Expanding their family__. In the midst of planning their wedding, many couples are also planning on expanding their brood after their “I dos”. Twenty-three percent of people surveyed said that they were currently saving to start a family (including putting aside money for fertility treatments).
- __Debt__. In addition to paying for their wedding, many couples are also putting money towards living a debt-free lifestyle—including student loans (47 percent) and other debt (25 percent).
- __Other people’s weddings__. For many couples, they’re not the only ones getting married in 2022—and all those other weddings are adding to their expenses. Two-thirds of couples are attending at least one other wedding in the coming year—and, as such, are having to balance their own wedding budget with budgeting for *other* people’s weddings.

That’s a lot to budget for—and a lot to balance. Luckily, there are tips, tricks, and strategies that you can use to keep all your budgets in balance—and ensure that you set aside enough money for your big day *and* all of your other financial obligations.

## Get Organized<a id="org"> </a>  

Organization is key to balancing budgeting for your wedding and budgeting for your life—so, the very first step of the process is getting organized.

First, determine how much money you actually have to work with. For example, how much money do you and your partner bring in each month—and how much is left over after covering your day-to-day expenses (such as food and transportation)? How much do you already have saved? Is anyone else contributing money towards your big day? (For example, according to the First Look Report, the majority of couples in 2022 are planning to split wedding costs with their parents and/or future in-laws.) Use those numbers to determine how much money you have currently—and how much you’ll have to spend in all between now and your wedding day.

Once you know how much money you have to work with, create different spreadsheets for everything that you’re currently budgeting for. You might create a spreadsheet for your wedding, a spreadsheet for the home that you and your partner want to buy after the wedding, and a spreadsheet for the weddings that you and your partner need to attend in 2022. Then, on each spreadsheet, list out all of the expenses that you’ll need to pay for.

For example, on your wedding budget spreadsheet, you’ll need to pay for things such as your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), [wedding photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-photographer), and [rehearsal dinner](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-rehearsal-dinners-5-ideas-we-love) costs. On your home budget spreadsheet, you might include lines for a down payment, moving costs, and furnishing your new home. On your budget spreadsheets for other people’s weddings, you’d want to include details such as wedding gifts and travel costs.

Laying out everything that you’re trying to pay and/or save for—and how much money you have to work with—will give you a better picture of your different budgets. And, the more that you understand your different budgets, the better you’ll be able to balance them—and avoid overspending in any single area.

## Keep Daily Expenses to a Minimum<a id="cut"> </a>

If you’re trying to balance budgeting for your wedding with a host of other major expenses (such as saving for a house or to start a family), you need to look for—and take advantage of—every opportunity to save.

One of the best opportunities to save—and strike a better balance between your wedding costs and other expenses in the process— is cutting back on your day-to-day spending.

Do you stop and pick up a latte every day on the way to work? Opt to make your coffee at home. Do you and your partner love trying new restaurants? Try cutting back on dining out until the wedding is over—and until you feel like you’re at a good place with your other big financial goals. Does your gym membership eat up a solid chunk of your paycheck? Save the money and opt for in-home workouts, instead.

The point is, if there are places that you can cut back in your day-to-day budget, it can give you more flexibility with your other budgets, which can make it easier to balance budgeting for your wedding and budgeting for life’s other major expenses.

## Get Creative With Credit<a id="credit"> </a> 

When you’re balancing budgeting for a wedding with budgeting for everything else, spending is inevitable. But, if you have to spend, why not make your spending work for you?

Optimizing credit cards can be a great way to rack up points—points that translate to a host of rewards, including rebates, travel credits, and cold hard cash. But, only eight percent of couples are optimizing credit cards when planning for their weddings—which means that the majority are missing out on the opportunity to transform the act of *spending* money into *making* money.

Research credit cards with competitive rewards offers, and then explore which gives you the most bang for your buck and, thus, might be the best fit for your needs. For example, do you want to optimize credit cards to cover honeymoon costs? Get a great travel rewards card, and use it to cover your wedding expenses, then cash in your points to score free nights at a hotel or a discounted flight.

Now, one thing to keep in mind is that you should only take advantage of this budgeting strategy if you can be responsible with credit—and you have the means to pay off your balances every month. It doesn’t matter how many points or what kinds of rewards a card gives you, because going deep into credit card debt to save a buck is not worth it.

## Keep Wedding Attendance Costs Low<a id="split"> </a>

Hosting a wedding is expensive, but so is attending a wedding. Wedding guests can spend over [$700 on a single wedding](https://www.businessinsider.com/wedding-guests-are-spending-a-lot-of-money-per-wedding-2019-7), and if you’re trying to balance paying for your own wedding with paying to attend the weddings of a seemingly endless stream of friends and family members, it can add up quickly.

Luckily, if you’re getting married in 2022—and have friends and family that are doing the same—there are ways to keep your “other wedding spending” in check, including:

- __Prioritize which weddings to attend__. You only have so much budget to spend on other people’s weddings—especially if you don’t want it to strain your own wedding budget. So, if you have multiple friends and family members getting married in 2022, you may need to prioritize which to attend—and which to RSVP “no” to. For example, you would never miss your bestie’s big day, but if a work acquaintance invites you to their destination wedding, you may want to pass.
- __Look for ways to split costs__. If you’re planning to attend another wedding, look for opportunities to split costs with other people. For example, if you need to stay in a hotel, consider asking a friend to split a room with you. If the wedding is a long drive, see if you can drive up with a group of friends, and then split the cost of gas.
- __Gift strategically__. If you’re stressed about balancing all the budgets (weddings and houses and babies, oh my!), don’t feel pressured to go big (and expensive) with your [wedding gifts](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-to-spend-on-a-wedding-gift). There’s nothing wrong with choosing one of the more budget-friendly items on a couple’s registry; remember, if they added it, they want it.

## Find the Perfect Budgeting Balance 

It can be challenging to balance budgeting for your wedding and budgeting for… you know, your *life*. But, with the right strategy, you can allocate your budget in a way that makes you feel totally prepared for your big day—without sacrificing your other financial goals in the process.

Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning

How to Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning

Integrating Culture into Their Weddings in 2022

How Couples Are Integrating Culture into Their Weddings in 2022

Attending a wedding while planning your own can add some serious stress to your big day, plus put a damper on your financial situation. But, with the wedding industry playing catch-up from COVID-19, celebration-packed summers are expected to be the way of the future.

According to [Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), a survey of more than 3,000 engaged couples, two thirds are attending at least one other wedding in 2022, making budgeting a more complicated concern. To make matters worse, about 70 percent of couples are already spending more than they originally budgeted. So, what’s the solution?

If you’re finding the balance between attending weddings and planning yours to be tricky, below are a few tips on how to cope.

### __Get Much of Your Planning Completed (and Deposits Paid) Far in Advance__<a id="ahead"> </a>  
In regards to your own wedding, securing vendors in advance saves you from the potential pickle of being stuck with some of the more expensive options as a last resort. When you take the time to research budget-friendly options and what’s available in your area, the options are endless.

When it comes to attending weddings, the same rules apply. Finding a hotel in advance or maximizing airline points almost always proves to be fruitful in the end. As soon as you know you can attend, start making plans.

### __Allocate a Separate Savings Fund for Each__<a id="funds"> </a>  
When you’re planning on attending three weddings during the same summer that you’re celebrating yours, the financial impact adds up. To avoid running out of cash, consider creating separate savings accounts or funds for each. Not only will this incentivise you to stay under budget, but it will also give you some peace of mind as you plan your big day. Just make sure that you revisit them both regularly as part of your overall financial plan, so that you don’t lose track of where you’re at.

### __Rent and Repurpose as Much as You Can__
As a wedding guest, renting attire and accessories can save you loads of money in the long run. Consider renting larger pieces, such as dresses and shoes, that you know you’re unlikely to wear again. If you’re attending weddings in different social groups, don’t be afraid of wearing similar outfits. While you might refrain from wearing the same dress to your cousin’s wedding as your brother’s, it’s unlikely that two friends who have never met will share photos. 

When it comes to your own wedding, renting may not always be the wisest financial decision. Linens, place settings, and candles often cost more to rent than to purchase and repurpose. If you find yourself buying decor that you don’t plan to reuse, look into Tradesy, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, and Ebay, which are all great places to sell (or buy!) your goods. 

### __Look into Alternative Financing Options__<a id="alt"> </a>  
In today’s day and age, paying for everything up front isn’t always expected, or, frankly, realistic. With approximately 40 percent of couples paying for their own wedding, the wedding industry has had to shift with the times. While many financial institutions offer “wedding loans,”or a variation of an unsecured personal loan, it’s also worth talking to your vendors about alternative payment plans. There are even some new organizations that help make financing a wedding more accessible.

### __Consider Working With a Financial Advisor or Expert__
For 2022, 28 percent of couples surveyed have budgeted between $10,000 and $20,000 for their wedding. An additional 16 percent budgeted for less than $10,000.

Much like it pays off to work with a wedding planner, hiring someone to help you with your finances isn’t the worst idea in the world. Not only will it make sure that you’re in the clear for the cost of your wedding, but it will also ensure that paying off wedding-related costs won’t mess with other financial goals. Honeymoons, houses and future family planning are all things to keep in mind.

### __Prioritize Which Weddings to Attend__<a id="which"> </a>  
If you’ve got a large network of friends and acquaintances in your age group, chances are that you’re going to be hit with a wedding boom all at once. To avoid breaking the bank, it’s important to prioritize which weddings you should (or want to) attend. Details such as familial relations, lengths of friendships, and cost of attending should all be taken into consideration. For example, while you might attend your sister’s wedding in Hawaii, you might not do the same for an old high school friend that you haven’t spoken to in a couple years. Just make sure that you’re honest about your financial situation and set expectations early on to avoid any hurt feelings.

### __Split Costs With a Friend__
For the weddings that you do plan on attending, talk to someone you know about splitting a place to stay or getting a rideshare from the airport. If it’s a local wedding, see if you can plan to carpool or schedule group rideshares in advance so that you know that you won’t be paying $100 for an Uber at the end of the night. Details such as a meal, gift, or taxi ride may seem insignificant on their own, but these costs start to add up. The more wedding-related costs you can split with someone you know, the better.

### __Gift Thoughtfully, but Strategically__
Buying your friend that espresso machine she’s wanted for years or trying to match the cost of your attendance might feel like the “right” thing to do, but no wedding gift is worth going into debt. If you’re maxed out, any good friend will understand, so lean more toward the thoughtful gifts than the most expensive ones. Group gifting is always another great way to have a big impact without spending too much money upfront. The earlier you browse the registry, the better.

It’s never easy to prioritize when you feel like you’re choosing between you and your loved ones, but it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. By creating strict budgets, strategically repurposing event decor, and coming up with creative financial solutions, you can get the best of both worlds. Or, should we say—in this particular case—have your cake and eat it too.


Charitable Wedding Registry

how many people should i invite to my wedding

How Many People to Invite to a Wedding

Setting your wedding budget is one of the most important tasks to check off of your [wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist). But, [setting a wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) and sticking to a wedding budget are two separate things. And, if you’re not careful, you could find yourself spending more than you anticipated on your wedding—and putting yourself in financial hot water in the process.

But, as the old saying goes, knowledge is power, and knowing some of the common areas where couples overspend on their weddings can help you stick to a budget that you’re comfortable with.

So, what exactly are those areas? Or, in other words, what are some things that you should watch out for that may influence you to go over your wedding budget?

## What Are Couples Budgeting for Their Weddings in 2022?<a id="most"> </a>

Before we jump into things that may drive you to go over your wedding budget, let’s quickly take a look at what, exactly, the average wedding budget is in 2022.

For [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), we surveyed over 3,300 engaged people for their insights into all things 2022 weddings—including what they were budgeting for their big day (and how well they are sticking to their budget). And, as it turns out, what couples are budgeting for their “I do’s” is a pretty broad range—anywhere between $5,000 and $100,000+.

According to our survey data, 28 percent of couples in 2022 are budgeting between $10,000 and $20,000 for their weddings—making it this year’s most popular wedding budgets. But, plenty of couples are [working with a tighter budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding-on-a-budget) (16 percent of couples are planning on spending less than $10K). Yet, still more couples are willing to spend a little more (18 percent of couples are budgeting between $30K and $40K for their weddings, while 13 percent are budgeting between $40K and $50K) or a lot more (two percent of couples are planning to spend more than $100K) to bring their wedding dreams to life.

But, no matter their wedding budget, one thing that the majority of couples have in common in 2022 is that they’re spending more on their weddings than they anticipated. According to the First Look Report, a whopping 70 percent of couples are spending more than they originally budgeted.

So, why are so many couples overspending, and what factors do you need to be aware of if you want to avoid going over budget during the wedding planning process?

## Underestimating Wedding Costs<a id="cost"> </a> 

One of the most common reasons why couples end up going over their wedding budgets is underestimating how much weddings cost from the get-go.

There are a variety of reasons why couples underestimate how much their weddings will cost—and, as a result, under-budget for that wedding—including:

- __Lack of knowledge.__ If you’ve never planned a wedding, you might not know how much typical wedding things—such as a [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), [wedding caterer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer), or [wedding photographer](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-photographer)—cost. This lack of knowledge can lead to budgeting less than you actually need to cover your wedding-related costs, which can lead to going over your wedding budget as your big day approaches.
- __Leaving things off your wedding budget.__ While many couples budget for the major wedding costs, they don’t have a complete picture of all the costs that may come up during the wedding planning process—whether that’s [buying gifts for the wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-party-gifts), paying extra for [wedding dress alterations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-dress-alterations), or [vendor gratuities](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors). And, even if your budget is accurate in how much each item costs, if it’s incomplete, you’re going to end up overspending.
- __2022 issues.__ While it can be hard to pin down exactly how much a wedding is going to cost in the best of times, it’s especially hard in 2022, when things such as supply chain issues and staffing shortages are driving up costs.

### How to Combat This (and Stay Within Your Wedding Budget)

Before you lock in your budget, make sure to get as much information as you can about wedding costs—for example, by contacting different vendors for their price lists (instead of estimating how much those vendors will cost). If you know couples who have recently gotten married, ask them for their insights. The more research you do about wedding costs, the more accurate your wedding budget will be—and the less likely you’ll go over your budget.

## Splurging on Certain Wedding Elements<a id="splurge"> </a>

Another reason why you might go over your wedding budget is splurging on that must-have item for your wedding day.

Now, if you do decide to splurge, don’t feel guilty! Many couples splurge, especially when it comes to making their wedding as fun and memorable as possible. Seventy-three percent of couples surveyed said they were splurging on a photographer to capture their big day, while another 60 percent were spending more for an [open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide). Fifty-five percent of couples said that they planned to splurge on a venue, while 47 percent were willing to spend more on the perfect wedding attire.

### How to Combat This (and Stay Within Your Wedding Budget)

If there’s something that you want to splurge on, look for other areas of your wedding budget where you might be able to save. For example, if you want to splurge on the best wedding venue in town, you might consider keeping it simple with [wedding flowers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-most-popular-wedding-flowers) and decor (and letting the space speak for itself). 

## Financial Changes<a id="change"> </a>

Sometimes, the financial situation that you’re in when you make your wedding budget, and the financial situation that you’re in on your wedding day are very different—and those changes can cause you to go over your wedding budget.

For example, in 2022, the most common way that couples are paying for their weddings is by sharing costs with their parents and/or in-laws. But, if your parents or in-laws’ financial situation(s) changes (and they can no longer contribute as much as you’d counted on), those costs will then fall to you—and you’ll end up spending more than you originally budget for. 

And, even for couples that are paying for their weddings on their own (which, according to our report, is 37 percent in 2022), financial changes can cause issues with your budget. For example, if you and your partner planned to spend a percentage of your income on your wedding—but then one of you loses your job or gets a pay cut—it could lead to you spending more than you planned.

### How to Combat This (and Stay Within Your Wedding Budget)

Unfortunately, most financial changes are unexpected and impossible to forecast. If you find yourself in a situation where you have less money to spend on your wedding than you anticipated, you may want to rethink your budget. While your wedding is an important day, your marriage is what’s really important—and you don’t want to start your marriage with a heap of wedding-related debt if you can avoid it.

The Benefits of Splitting Wedding Planning Duties

How to Focus on What Really Matters When Planning Your Wedding

Navigating the Noise Around Wedding Planning: How to Focus on What Really Matters

Let’s be honest: how to cover the cost of weddings has always been a point of stress for couples. But with the abundance of financing options available (and desire for more quaint celebrations), your dream wedding may be more attainable than you think.

According to [Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), in 2022 ⅓ of couples are covering all of their wedding costs on their own, and another 41% of couples are paying in part. That means for a good chunk of couples, paying for the wedding up-front and in full is out of the question.  In come alternatives such as unsecured personal loans and juggling credit card rewards. When it comes to credit cards, however, it’s important to know the rules of the game before you play. So what are the pros?

## The Pros of Optimizing Credit Cards for Wedding Spending<a id="pros"> </a>

### __You Can Get Zero Percent Intro APR__
Not all credit cards are created equal. Chase Freedom Unlimited, Capital One’s Quicksilver Cash Rewards Card, and the Cash Magnet Card from American Express are just a few options that tout zero percent intro APR, meaning you can borrow money at no cost for a fixed period. With the average credit card APR landing between 16 and 20 percent, it’s easy to see the benefits of this type of promotional deal.

However with intro APR, it’s important to remember that there’s an expiration date. What started as a good deal could quickly become a financial nightmare when your too-good-to-be-true APR shifts to 23 percent seemingly overnight. For this reason, it’s extremely important to see how long the limited-time offer lasts before you commit.

### __You Can Get Your Big Purchases Protected__
For items with a hefty price tag, such as wedding rings and attire, having purchase protection can provide some extra peace of mind. Some cards even offer refunds on specific items if prices drop. Just make sure you read the fine print and know what’s covered in your credit card’s purchase protection plan.

### __Maximizing Your Rewards Can Save You Lots of Money__
The beauty of credit cards is that each comes with its own set of perks. Sign-on bonuses, travel rewards, and cash back on purchases are a few of the most common. If you’re having a rehearsal dinner or bridal shower at a restaurant, for example, you may want to choose a card that gives you hefty bonus points on dining purchases. If you’re planning an epic honeymoon abroad, however, you might want to find a card with generous travel rewards. Just make sure whatever card you choose best suits your personal needs.

Note that we say “can” save you money (not “will”), because optimizing credit cards can be a risky business…which brings us to the cons:

## The Cons of Optimizing Credit Cards for Wedding Spending<a id="cons"> </a>

### __Optimizing Credit Cards Requires Careful Planning__
When you’re already in the midst of planning a monumental celebration, the idea of carefully tracking your spending and weighing potential risks might not be how you want to spend your time. However, strategic planning is a necessity in order to take full advantage of perks while keeping yourself out of serious potential debt. After all, if you’re paying more in interest than what you’re earning back in rewards, it’s not worth it. We recommend consulting with a financial expert or someone else you trust before making any big decisions.

### __You Can Hurt Your Credit Score__
If you’re using credit cards as a temporary fix, you might want to reconsider. Canceling zero-balance cards can hurt your credit, as can consolidating your balances onto a single card. This is something especially important to think about if you’re lured in by a zero percent APR intro rate that jumps to 15 percent after only a year.

In addition to cancellations and transfers, having a high credit card balance can also negatively affect your score. Most banks recommend maintaining a [credit utilization ratio of 30 percent or lower](https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/credit-education/score-basics/credit-utilization-rate/) to make sure you’re not overspending and keep you out of trouble with lenders down the road.

### __You’re Increasing Your Risk of Dangerous Debt__<a id="exp"> </a>  
This is particularly relevant if you’re someone who doesn’t have a lot of experience with credit cards (or has mismanaged cards in the past). We recommend having an automatic monthly payment schedule and regularly reevaluating your finances to keep from getting in over your head. It’s also crucial that you have these discussions with your partner to make sure you’re on the same page when planning for the future.

Before you decide on which cards (if any) are right for you, it’s important to consider:
- How (and where) you plan on spending your money
- What rewards would be most useful to you now and in the future
- How you plan on paying it off

<a id="finance"> </a>  
In summary, each couple’s financial situation is as unique as their wedding. Big financial decisions, such as choosing and optimizing credit cards, is deeply personal and requires lots of conversations with your partner. It’s extremely important to evaluate your risk and make sure your decisions align with what you as a couple want for the future. This level of careful planning and thoughtful decision-making is key in making sure your wedding is well worth the cost.


How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding Ring?

What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding Dress?

How to Start Long-term Planning for Newlyweds

Your wedding is a day to celebrate your love, your union, and the creation of a new family circle. One of the key parts of your wedding may be finding a way to honor you and your partner’s heritage, family, and/or cultural traditions. 

In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) , we surveyed 3,309 engaged individuals to find out who they are, what their priorities are for their 2022 weddings, and what makes these weddings different than ever before. Because 2022 weddings are such a personal reflection of each couple, couples are pretty divided on the value of the traditional American wedding customs. 

More and more, couples are opting to include specific cultural traditions on their wedding day, and 43% of couples say that they are including at least one or a few meaningful cultural traditions. Here’s a look at how couples are integrating culture into their 2022 weddings. 

## __American Wedding Customs__<a id="trad"> </a>   
Couples getting married in 2022 are cherry picking one or two American traditions that they want to include in their wedding celebration. The engaged couples are finding some new or more specific traditions to replace the ones that they are leaving behind. Fifty-three percent of couples say that they find value in participating in the same traditions as family and friends, while 41% are indifferent about American wedding customs, and 15% think they are outdated. So, what traditional customs are they keeping and tossing out? Check out the percentages of couples that voted:

### __What's In:__
- __First Dance:__ 94.39%
- __Being Walked Down the Aisle:__ 87.37%
- __Wearing a Veil:__ 70.94%
- __Cake Cutting:__ 75.26%

### __What's Out:__
- __Garter Toss:__ 20.33%
- __Bouquet Toss:__ 41.69%
- __Cake Smashing:__ 6.64%
- __Something Old, Something New:__ 62.24%

The tradition of not seeing each other before the wedding has couples divided. Fifty three percent are going to have a first look before the ceremony, and 47% aren’t planning to see each other until they meet at the altar. 

## __Cultures and Traditions__<a id="list"> </a>  
Seventy percent of couples don’t feel pressure to incorporate any specific traditions, whether customary American, cultural, or otherwise; and, instead, they’re doing them purely because they want to and find them meaningful. Here’s a closer look at some cultures and traditions that could be integrated into weddings. 

<a id="int"> </a>  

### __Mexican Wedding Traditions__

- __El Laso:__ This is a traditional unity ceremony using a lasso to join the couple after the exchange of vows that is performed across generations. Members of the couple’s families will wrap that lasso around them in a figure eight to symbolize the unity between them. 
- __Mariachi Band:__ Mariachis are hired to sing hymns and religious songs both during the ceremony and the reception. Couples may opt for this dynamic performance to add a festive flair to the celebration. 
- __Dollar Dance:__ This tradition, where guests offer the newlyweds money to dance with them or they shower the couple with money, spans across many cultures and is often called the money dance. Some include this in their celebration to allow family and friends to show how much they are loved and appreciated. 

### __Venezuelan Wedding Traditions__ 

- __La Hora Loca:__ This is another cross cultural tradition that many often adopt for their wedding receptions. Hora Loca is Spanish for [“the crazy hour”](https://www.weddingdetails.com/wedding-traditions/venezuela/) so it’s a party within a party. Couples may include this tradition during the wedding reception, once the party starts to wind down for the evening, to keep the party going. The lights dim, then a burst of color, noise-makers, confetti, lights, and performers get the party started all over again. It’s used to get people to mingle and let their hair down. 
- __Venezuelan Tambores:__ Tambor is a coastal Afro-Venezuelan music and dance. This can be incorporated into the reception with a drumming ceremony and performers. 

#### __ More on LatinX and Hispanic Wedding Traditions__ 
While there are some shared commonalities in traditions, rituals vary depending on the couple’s country (or countries) of origin, so not all Latin American or Hispanic weddings are the same. 

### __Jewish Wedding Traditions__

- __Breaking the Glass:__ Breaking the glass, which happens after the pronouncement and the kiss, is supposed to recall the destruction of the temples. It’s a way of remembering the tragedy of Jerusalem even during the happiest moment of a couple’s life: the wedding. 
- __Chuppah:__  A [chuppah](https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/chuppah/) is a canopy on poles that represents the couple’s new home and marriage. You can have wedding guests sign it, then attach it to the poles, so it symbolically has the blessings of loved ones hanging over the couple.
- __Hora Dance:__ The hora is a traditional dance performed at Jewish weddings where the newlyweds are lifted in the air in chairs at the reception, while their family and friends dance in circles around them. During the dance, the couple holds one end of a napkin to signify their union. 
- __7 Circles:__ During this custom, the bride will circle around the groom three to seven times under the chuppah. Tradition says that it’s to create a magical wall of protection from evil spirits, temptation, and wandering eyes. 

### __Indian Wedding Traditions__

Indian weddings usually last an average of three days. 

- __Hindu Ceremony:__ The [Hindu wedding ceremony takes](https://www.brides.com/hindu-wedding-ceremony-rituals-traditions-4795869) place on the third day, and it usually lasts between one-and-a-half to two hours. It is then followed by the reception, so the whole celebration clocks in at around 16 hours.
- __Baraat:__ The Baraat is meant to bring the groom to the wedding ceremony on a ceremonial horse, in a vintage car, or on a chariot as guests lead the way. It is a custom that originated in North India, but has been adopted by many other Indian communities. Couples may include this as part of the tradition, and add in more reasons to party. 
- __Mehndi:__ This tradition, which is a nostalgic sit-down for the bride and her close circle filled with laughter, fun, music, dances, and games, is held before the actual wedding. During this tradition, they receive mehndi stains over their hands and feet. It’s a chance to use natural herbal medicine to cool the body and relieve the bride of any stress ahead of the big day. 
- __Choora Ceremony:__ The choora ceremony is held on the morning of the wedding, or the day before. The bride's maternal uncle and aunt give her a set of chooriyan, also known as bangles. Now brides can decide how long to keep them on, ranging from a week to an entire year. 

### __German Wedding Traditions__

- __German Chair Dance:__ Tradition has it that at the wedding reception, the bride and groom are placed in a chair before the clock strikes midnight. A German song is performed while the chairs are lifted to bless the marriage. 
- __German Abduction of the Bride:__ Don’t worry, it’s totally safe. The groom’s best man [takes the bride on a pub crawl](https://www.hamburg.com/residents/getting-married/11873636/customs/), while leaving hints for the groom to find them. The bride and the kidnapper can drink up until the groom shows up to free the bride by paying the bill.

### __Irish Wedding Traditions__

- __Irish Ring Warming:__ A ring warming ceremony is a tradition that involves passing around the wedding bands to guests to warm up with prayers and good wishes. It’s a way for couples to include everyone in their wedding ceremony. 
- __Irish Knot Tying:__ This is an ancient Celtic tradition that dates back 2,000 years to determine if a couple is compatible. Today, the officiant places a ribbon around the couple’s hands while saying vows of promise and commitment.  

### __Polish Wedding Traditions__

- __Salt and Bread:__ The sharing of the bread and salt is an old [Polish tradition](http://www.polishamericancenter.org/Wedding.htm). At the wedding reception, the bride and groom are met by both sets of parents. With the bread, the parents are hoping that their children will never hunger or be in need. With the salt, they are reminding the couple that they must learn to cope with life's struggles. 
- __Polish Apron Dance:__ During the reception, all of the guests line up to dance with the bride and then offer money to the newlywed couple, as the Pani Mloda Polka song is playing. The contributions are collected into a special apron held by the bride's father. 

### __Scottish Wedding Traditions__

- __Formal Wearing of Scottish Kilts:__ A kilt is treated with distinction and is generally only worn at formal affairs like weddings. The groom and groomsmen may wear this to infuse Scottish heritage into the wedding. 
- __The Quaich Ceremony:__ A Quaich ceremony is a Scottish traditional two-handled cup. The Quaich is often referred to as the love cup, as the couple takes a handle to take a drink, showing that they trust one another to share the cup. Couples often opt to use the Quaich at the reception for their first toast together.
- __Tying of the Tartans:__ Tartans are a patterned cloth consisting of criss-crossed, horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors that are a staple in Scottish culture. Couples incorporate the tying of the tartans by tying their hands in the family tartan to symbolize tying the knot. 

### __Italian Wedding Traditions__

- __Italian Cuisine:__ Italy is known for its delicious cheeses and cured meats, and there are so many ways that couples incorporate that into the wedding menu. [Italian weddings](https://yummiestfood.com/what-food-is-served-at-an-italian-wedding/) tend to focus on lamb, beef, guinea fowl, fish, and beef. For dessert, couples usually include Italian cookies, tiramisu, Italian wedding cake, or gelato. 
- __Tarantella Dance:__ This popular Italian dance is performed by all guests linking their arms or holding hands in a circle, to dance around the newlyweds in happy celebration. The name comes from the Italian tarantola, which means 'tarantula.' Wedding receptions might also include one or two Pavorotti hits to honor the occasion.  
- __Jordan Almonds:__ These sugar-coated candies make an appearance at both Italian and Greek weddings. At traditional [Italian weddings](https://www.theknot.com/content/all-about-jordan-almonds), five almonds signify five wishes for the couple: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. Couples use the almonds as party favors in cute boxes or tulle bags. 

### __Chinese Wedding Traditions__

- __Traditional Attire (Qun Kwa and Qi Pao):__ A Qun Kwa is a two-piece traditional Chinese wedding gown that is embellished with patterns and motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, peonies, and more. Qi Pao is a classic garment traditionally made from embroidered silk, featuring a high collar and delicate cloth buttons on the front. Brides may choose to wear one of these for their wedding ceremony. 
- __Chinese Tea Ceremony:__ The [Chinese tea ceremony](https://www.brides.com/chinese-tea-ceremony-5078037#:~:text=The%20Chinese%20tea%20ceremony%20is,the%20couple's%20respective%20family%20homes.) is held on the day of the wedding, and it is when the bride and groom serve tea to their parents, in-laws, and other family members. It symbolizes the union of two families. 

### __Vietnamese Wedding Traditions__

- __Vietnamese Tea Ceremony and Candle Ritual:__ The purpose of a Vietnamese wedding tea ceremony is for the groom to ask the bride's family for her hand in marriage, and it also celebrates the union of the two families, while honoring the parents, family, and ancestors by lighting two candles.
- __Vietnamese Attire (áo dài):__ It’s the traditional attire that is long with slits on the side and can be worn by men and women. It has become the standard for both the bride and the groom to wear on their wedding day.

### __Japanese Wedding Traditions__

- __1,000 Paper Cranes:__ In Japan, the crane is highly esteemed. An ancient Japanese myth says that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane. The 1,000 paper cranes are given as a wedding gift by the father, who wishes a thousand years of happiness and prosperity for the couple.
- __Bon Odori Dancing:__ This is a traditional dance to celebrate the dead ancestors, and couples may integrate this custom into their wedding reception. 

### __Korean Wedding Traditions__

- __Korean Cuisine:__ The required [traditional food](https://www.villagecatering.com/4-interesting-korean-wedding-traditions/#:~:text=Though%20most%20Americans%20expect%20extravagant,sticky%20rice%20cakes%20for%20dessert.) for Korean weddings is noodle soup. Some couples might serve a kook soo sang (noodle banquet) with only noodle soup and sticky rice cakes for dessert.
- __Korean Dress (Hanbok):__ A bride (and perhaps the groom) will wear this [traditional formal clothing](https://www.brides.com/traditional-korean-wedding-5087200) made of silk. Couples often opt to wear this for part of the ceremony, and then wear a dress and suit for the rest. 

### __Filipino Wedding Traditions__

- __Cord and Veil Ceremony:__ Godparents drape a ceremonial lace veil over the bride and groom to symbolize being clothed as one. A ceremonial cord (yugal) is wrapped around them in a figure eight to symbolize an eternal bond of fidelity. Often, couples that are having a Catholic ceremony include this. 
- __Traditional Dress:__ Men often wear a [barong](https://vintagallery.com/blogs/news/the-rich-and-interesting-history-of-the-barong-tagalog), which is a sheer, long-sleeved formal shirt over slacks. Women will wear a [mantilla wedding veil](https://vintagallery.com/collections/filipiniana-wedding-collection/products/vanda-javierae-mantilla), which is traditionally worn on top of the head—two inches from the hairline—to allow the lace edge to drape alongside her face and down to her shoulders. 

### __African American Wedding Traditions__	

- __Jumping the Broom:__ [Jumping the broom](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/traditional-wedding-decor-ideas) has Ghanan roots, but it’s a traditional act performed at black weddings. After the vows are exchanged, the couple holds hands and jumps over the broom to seal the union. Couples add this to the ceremony to bless their marriage. 
- __Tasting the Four Elements:__ This tradition is [adapted from the Yorùbá people](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/great-ways-to-incorporate-tasting-the-four-elements-in-your-wedding). During the ceremony, the newlyweds take tastes of four flavors intended to represent the stages of marriage, such as vows like “better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.” These flavors are represented by cayenne for heat, lemon for sourness, vinegar for bitterness, and honey for sweetness. It’s a symbolic way that couples use to showcase their bond. 

### __Celtic Wedding Traditions__

- __Knot/Handfasting:__ The term “the knot” originates from handfasting ceremonies, and it’s when the officiant ties knots around the couple’s hands, wrists, and arms as a way for the couple to create a contract with each other. There are so many ways to do this, so couples can use their personal preference to show their unity. 
- __Poem for the Couple:__ Celtic sayings and blessings that early Irish immigrants brought to America centuries ago can still be heard today in the form of short poems. Couples incorporate this as unique wedding ceremony readings, vows, or even for the toasts at the reception. 

### __Greek Wedding Traditions__

- __Greek Cuisine:__ There’s a vast, rich selection of Greek foods to choose from to add to the menu, but couples often serve certain dishes at their wedding reception such as lamb or beef stew with orzo, a cheese pastry called tiropita, and a sweet pastry called baklava. Jordan almonds are also included to symbolize the endurance of marriage and the promise of a sweet life together. 
- __Koumbara:__ The Greek Orthodox Church requires the couple to appoint Orthodox Christian wedding sponsors to be their guides and go-to’s throughout their marriage. The Koumbaro is the male sponsor and the best man, while the female is the Koumbara and is the maid (or matron) of honor. 
- __Greek Dances:__ Couples may decide to use one or two Greek dances. The Dance of Isaiah is led by the priest in a ceremonial walk as the Koumbaro holds a ribbon behind the couple that joins their crowns, to celebrate their first steps as husband and wife. The Greek dollar dance is a playful dance for the reception, where the newlyweds are rewarded by guests throwing dollar bills onto the dance floor or pinning them onto the couple’s attire as a way to show congratulations. 

## __Wedding Planning Made Easy__

Zola can help with your wedding planning, and can ensure that you include symbolic cultural wedding traditions into your celebration. Create a free, custom wedding website. You can also explore our extensive library of wedding knowledge to help with your journey to the altar. [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) is here to help make it an easy and enjoyable experience.

What To Wear To A Jewish Wedding

What to Expect at a Nigerian Wedding

How to Plan a Wedding in Greece

Historic Wedding Venues in the U.S. 

 Wedding Traditions

Every couple looks forward to tearfully seeing each other at the [first look](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/first-look-wedding-photo-ideas), reciting their vows, and being pronounced as newlyweds. After all, those are all significant parts of the wedding day that seal their union. Then, after the ceremony ends, it’s time to celebrate with loved ones at the after-wedding party. But, what are the best wedding reception trends for 2022? 

To learn more, [Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) polled 3,309 engaged folks to find out what they have in store for their post-ceremony events. From fun activities to [themed entertainment](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/different-types-of-themed-wedding-entertainment), here is what to expect during wedding receptions in 2022.

## What Couples Said About Their 2022 Wedding Receptions<a id="2022"> </a>  

After years of uncertainty, couples are finally ready to get together with their family and friends, and a wedding is a great reason to celebrate. It’s not surprising that 40 percent of couples feel more in love now than ever before, and they highly anticipate their wedding day. During the pandemic, wedding planning time has lengthened, increasing from 12 to 18 months; yet, this has caused 59 percent of couples to say that the planning process has brought them closer. 

Getting together is now more meaningful to 48 percent of engaged folks, as they’re looking forward to concentrating on celebrating with their loved ones at their [2022 weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/micro-weddings). Twenty-eight percent of respondents said that they’re just ready to party, and that’s precisely what receptions are all about. From traditions (such as dancing and cocktails) to unique activities (such as games and costumed characters), there is a lot of fun to be had in 2022 to inspire your special day.

## Top 2022 Wedding Reception Trends to Watch<a id="trends"> </a>  

Couples getting married in 2022 want to ensure that their big day contains plenty of memory-making moments. Of course, this includes tender times with their significant other, but getting together with family and friends is a top priority. As a result, 2022’s couples are ensuring that their guest experience at the wedding reception is high on the priority list. Here’s how:

### __Dance Floors__

Although a [dance floor](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/first-dance-song-ideas-for-your-wedding) may not seem unique, couples with 2022 weddings are making them a focus. Everything from checkerboard patterns to messages in lights displayed on the dance floor are en vogue. Brides and grooms are also making the dancing itself a focal point by arranging tables around the perimeter and planning choreographed routines. 

### __Photo Booths__
Having a photo booth is the perfect concept for couples who want to maximize their budget. Not only is having a booth entertaining, but the resulting pictures can also double as a wedding favor. Hire a company or make your own area stocked with props to add to the festivities. Another option is to have a unique [photo booth](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/diy-photo-booth) housed in a luxe tent or vintage trailer for added interest. 

### __Video Booths__
It’s one thing to have photos of your guests having fun at a reception photo booth, but video booths (also known as speech booths) are quickly breaking into reception entertainment. One polled couple is swapping photos for a speech booth. “We’ll have videos of everyone having a great time,” they said. “Their well-wishes will be fun to rewatch in the future.” they added. Capturing sentiments on video is a beautiful keepsake.

### __Beverage Bars__ <a id="adds"> </a>
No matter how you structure your bar—open [or cash](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-save-money-with-a-cash-bar-at-your-wedding)—having alcoholic beverages is a focus for 2022 weddings. Couples want their wedding guests to party and enjoy themselves. They are doing so by having cocktails, beer, and wine flowing throughout the night. Many are also making the bar itself a focal point with handwritten signage and lavish floral arrangements. 

### __Cigar and Hookah Bars__
Long gone are the days of cigarettes; however, having a hookah or cigar bar is a more upscale way to treat your guests to something different. Purchase cigars from various countries or offer different flavors of hookah. When choosing this option, be sure to ask your reception venue if having a cigar or hookah bar is allowed. 

### __Face Painting__
Face painting isn’t just for kids anymore. You and your guests can channel your [inner children](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/include-your-kids-in-wedding?_branch_match_id=link-730486386050382038) by following the 2022 trend of face painting. Consider having an artist create mini art pieces. Artisans can paint more detailed florals, flourishes, and even landscapes onto the cheeks of your wedding guests.

### __Entertainers__ <a id="entertain"> </a>
Acrobatics, [live painters](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-tips-to-work-art-into-your-wedding), and circus performers are all creative ways that couples are choosing to entertain their attendees. Although these shows are small-scale, they are high quality and add a wow factor to wedding receptions. Providing your guests with something interesting to watch will set your special day apart.

### __Costumed Character Appearances__
According to our respondents, from entertaining the kids to providing the adults with a bit of fun, characters in costume are part of upcoming reception trends. Dressed-up superheroes, movie impersonators, and princesses will be entertaining kids of all ages in 2022. Build on your theme to select a character, or simply go with one that children will enjoy.

### __Interactive Games__
Providing games is a fabulous way for guests to get to know each other. Keep it simple and play a few lawn games, such as cornhole and horseshoes. Another option is to have more organized contests throughout the reception. Either way, [games](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/newlywed-game-questions) are both fun to watch and participate in, so they will provide entertainment for outgoing folks and wallflowers alike. 

Although these are upcoming trends for 2022 weddings, receptions will continue to be looked at as a chance to socialize and celebrate. If you need help, Zola can help you plan the perfect wedding after-party. From coming up with your [reception timeline](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-reception-timeline) to the logistics of having an [open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide), Zola is here to help. 


How to Find an Affordable Wedding Venue

Wedding Reception Timeline Ideas + Template

How Long Should a Rehearsal Dinner Be?

Pros and Cons of Food Truck Wedding Catering

Wedding Day

The Top Wedding Reception Trends for 2022

More than ever before, engaged couples are being intentional with decisions regarding their wedding day. Many 2022 ceremonies and celebrations will be a personal reflection of each individual couple, meaning that some traditional aspects will be left out. Thoughts surrounding customary American wedding traditions are pretty divided, with couples picking and choosing which ones they’d like to include on their wedding day. 

In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), over 3,300 engaged individuals shared the traditions that they think are in, those that are out, and those that they’re split on. Discover what each tradition is, where it comes from, and why couples are keeping it or leaving it behind, in our guide below.

## Traditions That Are In<a id="in"> </a>  

### Having a First Dance
The first dance is one of many customs that comes to mind when thinking about a wedding. It typically takes place at the beginning of your reception, after the wedding party has made their entrance. The newlywed couple shares the first dance, often accompanied by a [special song](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/first-dance-song-ideas-for-your-wedding) that they’ve both chosen specifically for this. The tradition of the first dance dates back to 17th-century Europe, when formal balls were popular. At these occasions, it was customary for the guest (or guests) of honor to lead out the first dance as a grand opening to the event.

While customs have changed, couples still consider this to be a special moment, looking at it as their first public act as a married couple. Although most of today’s brides and grooms aren’t trained in ballroom dance, many will opt to take classes or even learn a choreographed first dance leading up to their wedding.

### Being Walked Down the Aisle
One of the most memorable moments of any wedding day is the walk down the aisle. It’s the first time that guests—and, often, significant others—will see you in your wedding attire, and it signifies the joining of your families. Traditionally, the father of the bride walks the bride down the aisle to hand her off, or “give her away,” to the groom. If this comes across as a bit dated, that’s because it is. The tradition originated in a time when women were considered the property of their fathers, thus, when a woman got married, her father gave her away in exchange for a dowry.

That being said, being walked down the aisle has evolved for more modern sensibilities. It’s now performed as a display of love and support, and can be done by fathers, mothers, both parents,  siblings, or any loved one of choice.

### Wearing a Veil
Typically, contemporary weddings treat the veil as an accessory, but, like most wedding customs, its involvement comes from historic wedding lore. It’s largely agreed upon that the wedding veil’s origins trace back to Rome, where a bride would wear one down the aisle to cover her face and disguise her from any evil spirits. That being said, its history varies and means different things according to different faiths.

Today, [reasons to wear a veil](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/veil-or-no-veil-the-pros-and-cons-of-each?_branch_match_id=link-847464789374003983) vary from cultural tradition to sporting a wedding-specific accessory. Many see their wedding day as the one time that they’re able to wear one, and, as such, want to take advantage of the opportunity. And, well, plenty of brides simply like the drama that it adds to their outfit (and we can’t blame them).

### Cutting the Cake
Originally, the practice of cutting the cut and handing out pieces to guests was performed only by the bride. Performing this ritual symbolized the bride being given away, while the act of guests accepting and eating a slice was a means to wish good luck and ensure fertility to the married couple. Over time, the tradition has picked up other symbolic meanings, such as one half of the wedded couple placing their hand over the other’s to display care and support. Couples were also instructed to cut from the bottom tier as a nod to the relationship’s foundation and longevity.

Nowadays, couples view cutting the cake as another act to perform together as newlyweds. It’s fun, it’s a bit of a spectacle, and it gives you the chance to shine a spotlight on your wedding cake.

## Traditions That Are Out<a id="out"> </a>  

### Garter Toss
[The garter toss gets a lot of strong reactions.](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/should-you-do-a-garter-toss) The tradition, which has grown into the groom’s equivalent of the bouquet toss, traditionally has the bride sitting on a chair while the groom takes her garter belt off and tosses it into a crowd of bachelors. Like the bouquet toss, whoever catches it is said to be the next person to get married. 

Originally, however, it went a bit differently. The garter toss originated in ancient England and France, when guests would try to rip off a piece of the bride’s dress for good luck. Understandably, this left many brides feeling nervous throughout their wedding. To distract the crowd and ease the bride’s mind, the groom would secure and toss a piece of the wedding dress out into the crowd. While distracted, the newlyweds would escape the reception.

Much of the reason why modern couples oppose this custom is because of the changes that it’s undergone over time. The act can be a bit inappropriate, and it’s understandable why many newlyweds wouldn’t want their loved ones to see their spouse removing their garter. Moreover, this tradition can spur anxiety and embarrassment, neither of which you should feel on your wedding day.

### Bouquet Toss
[The bouquet toss](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/should-i-toss-my-real-bouquet) has the same origins as the garter toss. After the wedding ceremony, guests would try to snatch a piece of the bride’s gown or bridal bouquet, as getting one was thought to grant similar good luck in marriage. Brides in ancient England grew unfavorable of this act and, in an attempt to placate their guests, began tossing their bouquets. Like the garter toss, this wedding tradition has evolved. Now, the bouquet is tossed into a crowd of bachelorettes, with the person catching it said to be the next to get married.

When it comes to this tradition falling out of favor, there are two reasons to point to. The first reason to forgo the bouquet toss is the desire to [preserve your flowers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-preserve-flowers). With tons of preservation techniques and gift ideas going around, it’s understandable that many brides don’t want to get rid of their bouquets. It’s a sentimental—and sometimes expensive—piece of your wedding that you carried with you throughout the day. The second reason why brides are opting out is simply because it isn’t their style. The bouquet toss is a bit of a spectacle, and, not to mention, it can interrupt the flow of your reception.

### Cake Smashing
Historically, there are a number of wedding customs that involve cake, though only a few have made their way into modern celebrations. Brides in ancient Rome would have cake crumbled over their heads by their husband to represent dominance. Brides in Yorkshire, on the other hand, would have a small taste of their cake before throwing the rest over her own head to symbolize a life without want. Married couples in medieval England kissed over their cake, as wedding lore states that if it didn’t fall over, they’d be lucky in their marriage.

Two cake traditions that seem to have survived all this time are cutting the cake and cake smashing. Cake smashing, as the name implies, is when one (or both) of the newlyweds smashes a piece of cake into his or her partner’s face. While some people see this as funny, many more view it as aggressive. Couples don’t want to mistakenly upset one another and/or deal with the cleanup involved. You have the rest of the night to celebrate, and odds are that you don’t want to waste any of that time cleaning yourself off.

### Something Old, Something New
Everyone knows the saying: *Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue*; however, not everyone knows the meaning of the rhyme or where it comes from. The traditional rhyme, which actually ends with *and a sixpence in your shoe*, started in the Victorian era in the country of Lancashire. The rhyme describes five items that claim to bring brides luck or ward off evil spirits on their wedding day. Blue items were said to protect against a curse called the evil eye, while borrowed items were said to confuse the evil eye into thinking that the bride was someone else, and so on and so forth. Nowadays, the items have taken on different meanings, such as optimism, purity, and borrowed happiness.

While the tradition isn’t meant to send to-be-weds on a scavenger hunt, modern engaged people would rather skip it altogether. Seeing as it’s often just a fun activity that includes a few loved ones, many couples and their wedding parties don’t seem to mind leaving it out. It can feel like a hassle, especially if certain items would seem out of place.

## The Jury’s Still Out<a id="split"> </a>  

### Having a First Look
The first look is when a couple sees each other, in many cases for the first time, on their wedding day. It’s a private moment before the ceremony, away from guests, when they can see each other and share some time together. However, most don’t know that the traditional first look—in which a groom wouldn’t see the bride until she walked down the aisle—borrows from arranged marriages. Fearing soon-to-be-wed couples would back out of their weddings, families prevented them from seeing each other until the ceremony. Now, it’s most often used as a sweet and intimate moment between the couple before they spend the rest of the day surrounded by loved ones.

Couples are split on having a first look, with just over half saying that they plan on doing one. While this can be a nice, quiet moment between you and your spouse (and a chance for [great photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/first-look-wedding-photo-ideas)), some couples prefer alternatives such as having your first look be down the aisle or getting ready together.

### Not Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony
This tradition is also inspired by arranged marriages. Pre-18th century, it was common for engaged couples in an arranged marriage not to meet or see each other until their wedding ceremony. This tradition was performed out of fear that they’d want (or plan) to back out beforehand. Now, couples may avoid seeing one another before their ceremony or even in the days leading up to their wedding in order to make their reuniting all the more special. The thought comes close to the sentiment of *absence makes the heart grow fonder*, with that moment being all the more impactful because you haven’t seen each other.

Just under half of the engaged people surveyed said that they’ll be implementing this tradition in their 2022 wedding—and we can see why, as a whole, people are split. Not seeing your significant other before your ceremony can make for an incredibly sweet moment. At the same time, it can be a bummer not to see your partner in the special moments beforehand. This tradition, perhaps more than all others, comes down to the preferences of you both.

## Remember to Include Your Desired Traditions
A thought that isn’t groundbreaking is that wedding planning can be a daunting task. So much so, that on the wedding day, many couples are just happy to be there doing the thing. That being said, amidst all of the hustle and bustle, it’s possible to forget to include a tradition or two. This most often happens during the reception, since there’s so much going on. One way to avoid this is to be as organized with your wedding planning as can be. When everything is jotted down and in one place, you’re less likely to stress and forget the things that you want to do. 

Not sure where to put it all down? Zola has a bevy of tools ready to help. The interactive and customizable checklist, in particular, is a tremendous aid in making sure that you don’t forget a thing. While you’re looking around your account, take a look at the customizable [Wedding Websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website), [Registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry), and [Guest List](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) tools. Sometimes stress is unavoidable, but the easier wedding planning can be, the better.

Although the wedding day is the main attraction, many events leading up to the big day generate excitement. As your family and friends hear the news, they want to share in the anticipatory joy, give you gifts, and [offer a toast](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-give-a-great-wedding-toast). And, 2022 couples are capitalizing on this fact by planning and participating in festivities before their big day. 

[Zola's First Look Report ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022)polled 3,309 engaged folks to find out the emerging trends in relation to events that couples have planned. Here are the unique pre-wedding events that engaged couples are having in 2022. 

## Why Couples Are Planning Pre-Wedding Events in 2022<a id="pre"> </a>  

After months of waiting, engaged folks are ready to celebrate in a big way. Thanks to the pandemic, the average engagement timeline has increased from 12 months to 18 months. An extended planning period means that people are ready to party and spend time with family and friends. Some duos are planning typical pre-wedding day events, while others are thinking outside of the box in creative ways. 

Although looking forward to the special day can be stressful, as couples add planning a significant event into an already packed work/life schedule, engaged folks are feeling more excited and in love than ever before—and the numbers agree. Forty percent of couples are expressing their excitement by counting down the days and moments before the big day. 

<a id="party"> </a>  
Many can’t wait to be with family due to extended time apart. Fifty-nine percent feel closer to their partner as they go through the wedding planning experience. Additionally, 42 percent say that the pandemic has made getting together with loved ones more meaningful. Not surprisingly, 28 percent were honest enough to say that they are just ready to party. Those who are getting married in 2022 deserve to celebrate in a big way, surrounded by family and friends, and the rise in pre-wedding events proves that fact. 

## The 2022 Pre-Wedding Events That Are Taking Over<a id="trad"> </a>  

Zola’s polled couples have some creative options for you; however, there are more common festivities that traditionally surround the big day. One consideration is that many are choosing to have three or more events beyond their wedding ceremony and reception. Here are the ones that came out on top to inspire your celebrations. 

### __Rehearsal Dinner__
Having a [rehearsal dinner ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-rehearsal-dinners-5-ideas-we-love)to welcome and gather out-of-town guests, family, and the wedding party is traditional. However, when it comes to the guest list, feel free to keep it small (say, immediate family and the wedding attendants), or go all out and invite anyone who wants to come. From ultra-formal to casual backyard barbecues, 81 percent of couples are scheduling rehearsal dinners before or after their wedding run-through. 

### __Bachelor/Bachelorette Party__
Nothing says “let’s party” more than scheduling bachelor and [bachelorette parties](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-bachelorette-parties), which 81 percent of couples are doing. Traditionally, these events are party-centric; however, today’s brides and grooms are gathering with friends in unique ways that still capture the celebratory element. Consider getting together with your wedding party for a getaway weekend, or, other options are to schedule a spa day or take an art museum tour.

### __Wedding Shower__
Showers are an opportunity for family and friends to give gifts to the engaged duo. Sixty-eight percent of couples are adding this to their event list, whether the host is a family member or the couple. Traditionally, these are present-centric events with party games and the opening of gifts. However, modern [wedding showers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-shower-guide) are more about mingling and getting together. Get creative and host an event with lawn games and a bonfire. You can still open presents, but feel free to have your shower focus more on your guests’ experience. 

### __Engagement Party__
Twenty-six percent of couples are planning celebrations because they’re finally engaged; after all, everyone wants to see the ring and offer their congratulations. Of course, there is no better way to debut that bling than to gather all of your loved ones together in one place for an [engagement party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-an-engagement-party). One couple said that they are going casual and having an “I Do BBQ” to celebrate their impending nuptials. Therefore, feel free to be as formal or informal as you’d like for your own event.

### __Sendoff Events__
Although these aren’t technically pre-wedding events, couples are also taking the time to plan celebrations to share in after they say “I do.” Not only are they hosting receptions, but 37 percent are planning reception after-parties to keep those happy vibes flowing. In addition, 30 percent are hosting a goodbye brunch the day after their wedding. Think about planning a [post-wedding meal](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/fun-post-wedding-brunch-invitation-ideas) that gathers your guests to offer your thanks, and then sends them off in style.

## Creative Pre-Wedding Events Couples Are Planning<a id="create"> </a>

Beyond traditional events, some engaged folks are going the extra mile to plan additional festivities for family and friends. From cultural events to activities that immerse guests into their location, here are ideas from Zola’s polled 2022 couples. 

### __Brunch-Centric Celebration__
Beyond the post-wedding brunch, couples are looking for other reasons to chat over mimosas and eggs Benedict. Consider gathering the bridesmaids, welcoming folks into town on the rehearsal day, or satiating family and friends on the day of the wedding with a pre-wedding party. 

### __Stock the Bar Party__
Curating a well-stocked bar can be an effort, therefore, consider hosting a celebration where folks bring alcohol to stock your at-home bar. Of course, your guests may then expect to be invited over post-wedding to enjoy a few drinks with you; however, that’s just an extra reason to celebrate.

### __Local Activity__
Whether getting married at home or having a [destination wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-hire-a-destination-wedding-planner), consider exposing guests to the area. And, even better, these experiences can also serve as a thank you gift, instead of presenting them with a party favor. Zola’s couples are planning sunset catamaran cruises, hikes, kayaking trips, camping experiences, yoga, and local tours. One duo is hosting a “First Brew Since I Do” event, perfect for testing out a new brewery. Feel free to do your own take on what’s available in your area.

### __Cultural Event__
Forty-three percent of Zola’s respondents are planning to include cultural traditions in their pre-wedding events. It’s the perfect way to celebrate, while exposing others to your heritage. So, whether you plan a tea ceremony, Mehndi night, or a Jewish tradition—such as Shabbat Chattan or Mikveh—infuse your culture into your events. 

Now that you know what pre-wedding events are trending for 2022 weddings, consult Zola to plan these fabulous events. Zola’s expert advice section contains tips from picking out an [engagement ring](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-different-engagement-ring-styles) to [stocking your new home](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-registry-tips) together. Set yourselves (and your wedding) up for success by letting Zola help you plan every step of the way. 


Unique Pre-Wedding Events Couples are Having

Getting Engaged

Unique Pre-Wedding Events Couples are Hosting in 2022

<a id="top"> </a>  
When a couple gets engaged or married is typically based on a number of factors. Holidays, breaks from work and school, and—perhaps most notable—weather, all play into the month that someone proposes or says *I do*. In fact, [wedding season](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-season-should-you-get-married-in) exists for these exact reasons. 

However, this coming year, things are looking a bit different. While some of the most popular times to get engaged and married remain mainstays, we’re seeing new months on couples’ radars, as well as an overall shift in 2022’s projected wedding season. It’s official: Everyone’s getting engaged and married in these months. Read on for all of the ‘whens’ and ‘whys.’

### 2022’s Unique Wedding Season<a id="shift"> </a>  
While we’re beginning to see a revival of large gatherings and celebrations, many weddings are still being [affected by the pandemic](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/i-just-got-engaged-should-i-start-planning) and will continue to be throughout 2022. This fact is perhaps most apparent in couples’ wedding planning timelines. 

Consider this: According to [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), the majority of couples getting married next year actually got engaged in December of 2020. But, due to things still being so up in the air this last year, many chose to extend their engagement period from an average of 12 to 18 months and push their wedding dates out to 2022.

This pushback has made couples eager and excited to finally have their weddings, with 40 percent feeling more excited than ever and 42 percent noting that it’s more meaningful now to be celebrating with loved ones. That, plus a longer engagement period, means that we’re going to see an earlier wedding season this coming year (more on that in a bit). Engaged couples have been biding their time and are more ready than ever to make it official.

## Top Months to Get Engaged<a id="engaged"> </a> 
With that in mind, let’s start by looking at the months when people are getting engaged. This data hasn’t seen as big of a change, likely due to proposals being a more intimate experience. That is to say, not many couples plan on having all of their loved ones present for it. 

More often, proposals involve the couple, if not a handful of close friends and family members. This has made getting engaged throughout the last year easier to manage, with the usual factors such as weather, time off from work and school, and holidays having the largest influence.

### December
The holiday season has long reigned supreme when it comes to the most popular months to get engaged—and we can’t say that we’re surprised. December brings with it feelings of thankfulness and love. It’s the time that we’re most likely to be surrounded by loved ones, many of whom couples want to share these special moments with. 

The pressures of everyday life also seem to cease some, with schools letting out for winter break and workplaces often giving a few days off for major holidays. With loved ones near, holiday cheer, and many towns decked out in festive decor, it comes as no surprise that December is such a beloved time to get engaged.

### May
May lands in that nice place between late spring and early summer, with sunnier weather making an appearance in many places. Warmer days and the long Memorial Day weekend begin to coax people outside, making outdoor proposals much easier to pull off. Another plus to getting engaged in May is that it leads seamlessly into summer; a time when [celebrating your engagement](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-an-engagement-party) and beginning wedding planning becomes more manageable, due to summer break and people’s availability opening up.

### October
With fall kicking off just a few weeks earlier, [October](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/october-wedding-heres-everything-you-need-to-know) is a prime time to take advantage of nice weather and beautiful changing views. Come mid-October, most of the US sees the arrival of fall foliage, a great excuse to drive into the mountains or take a surprise trip upstate. A backdrop of vibrant, gorgeous autumn colors makes quite the backdrop for a proposal, after all. Of course, we can’t go without also mentioning Halloween, as spirited couples who go all out find it to be an especially thrilling day to get engaged.

### March
Late March marks the beginning of spring, a time representative of renewal, rebirth, and fresh new beginnings. It’s a wonderful time to celebrate the start of something new, especially with the return of warmer weather and new blooms. Spring break starts around mid-March, allowing couples with children to make a sunny escape full of adventure and relaxation. This month also has two holidays that provide fun engagement opportunities: St. Patrick’s Day (especially if you or your partner are Irish) and National Proposal Day, which takes place on March 20th. The latter even coincides with the Spring Equinox next year.

### June
Summer is finally in full swing, and with it comes sunny skies, large family gatherings, and the chance to go on trips with your significant other. Many couples take advantage of the typically warm weather by spending time together at their favorite outdoor spots, whether near or far from home. Moreover, school’s out for summer, which means that couples or significant others with children can more easily involve them in the proposal. All of this provides ample opportunity for exciting engagements.

### February
Though Valentine’s only lasts a single day (February 14th), the feeling of love permeates the entire month. Whether due to the anticipation leading up to the holiday, the giddiness thereafter, or both, it isn’t shocking that a lot of couples get engaged throughout. [Valentine’s Day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-valentines-day-proposal) alone is an apt time for big surprises and grand expressions of love. It’s romantic and traditional, as well as pretty unforgettable.

## Top Months to Get Married<a id="married"> </a>  
With long-awaited weddings and the ability to celebrate with lots of loved ones, 2022 will have an earlier wedding season than usual. Whereas summertime and early fall typically host the most weddings, next year’s couples have set the most dates between April and June, with May and June being the biggest months for weddings. While September and October, which were last year’s top wedding months, will still see a large number of weddings, this new wedding season is going to be much bigger than usual.

### June
[June weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/june-wedding-everything-you-need-to-know) are well-liked for many of the reasons that we’ve already covered. However, the month is also steeped in history and tradition. For one, June is named after Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth, and thus long considered a favorable month to get married. Moreover, its popularity dates back to the Celtic calendar. At the time, young couples would pair up around May Day (May first) with the intention of marrying in August. However, impatient couples would set their date for June, shortening the waiting period and ensuring the month’s early popularity. 

Nowadays, June weddings are often sought after for more practical reasons. The beginning of summer has great weather, summer break allows for large gatherings and travel, and you can be flexible with your wedding venue (indoor vs. outdoor) and attire.

### May
May weddings enjoy a lot of the benefits that June weddings do, such as nice weather and the flexibility that comes with that. However, as an added bonus, these weddings take place at the very start of summer. This means that they’re less likely to clash with other people’s plans, such as summer vacations and other weddings. On that note, guests won’t be suffering from wedding fatigue, which is possible during the busy summer wedding season. 

Having a wedding in May also allows couples to enjoy the rest of their summer, rather than spend it worrying about last-minute details. Added bonus: For a lot of venues and vendors, May falls just outside of peak summer pricing. For couples that prioritize sticking to a budget, this month provides all of the perks of a summer wedding without the extra cost.

### April
Although April can have unpredictable weather, this seems to be the only downside to having a wedding this month. That aside, April doesn’t have many calendar conflicts in 2022, with Easter on the 17th and Passover from the 15th through the 23rd. When it isn’t raining, couples and their guests can enjoy comfortable weather, with temperatures anywhere from the fifties to the eighties throughout the US. 

April also has popular and traditional context that makes it a favorable month to get married during. It’s possible that weddings this month shot up in popularity some years ago due to the Royal Wedding between William and Kate, which took place on April 29th. However, looking much further back, it can be noted that the Romans considered April the Sacred Month of Venus, the Goddess of love and fertility.

### October
The reasons why October sees so many weddings are similar to why it sees so many engagements. In many places it’s the perfect post-summer temperature (not too hot or cold for you and your guests), and vibrant fall colors have started to paint mountains, trees, and landscapes. Because of this shift in the seasons, there’s also an opportunity to use decor that’s deeper, moodier, or cozier than is usually seen in the spring or summer. 

Autumn also opens the door up to fun and seasonal food and cocktail options. And we can’t forget [Halloween](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-put-together-a-spooky-halloween-wedding), which gives couples who enjoy dressing up the chance to throw the ultimate themed ceremony and reception.

### September
During the summer months, many people’s calendars are marked up with wedding dates and summer vacations. [September](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/september-wedding-heres-everything-you-need-to-know), however, sees a decrease in packed plans, making it ideal for couples with longer guest lists. In early autumn, guests have more time and availability, so they’re more likely to be able to make it to your celebration. September also embodies that desired fall feeling that many engaged couples are after, while still offering some of the warm weather that was present at the end of summer. Add in the three-day Labor Day weekend and many are sold.

### July
One of the first things that comes to mind with a mid-summer wedding is the high likelihood of fantastic weather. In many parts of the US there is a very low risk of showers or strong winds, which comes as a great relief for those who want an outdoor or outdoor-indoor wedding. This also lets you be selective when it comes to venue styles and what you and your guests wear. The days are longer, an abundance of flowers and fresh fruits are in season, and people are more willing to spend time traveling and socializing. 

Speaking of travel, guests are more likely to do so because of relaxed work schedules and breaks from school. July weddings are also far from any winter holidays, meaning that guests have more freedom in their schedules and might have some more room in their budgets for travel.

## Setting a Schedule at Zola
Once you’re engaged and your date’s been picked, much of your wedding planning can begin. Great! Although, admittedly, this can be an intimidating thing to approach. Not sure where to start? Zola’s got you covered. By [creating an account](https://www.zola.com/onboard/select-product), you gain access to a number of helpful tools, like a customized monthly wedding checklist. Just sign up, tell us your wedding date and any special traditions that you’ll be following, and allow us to compile the rest. Come for the checklist and stay for the [Wedding Website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) builder, online RSVPs, and more [Expert Advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice).

Proposal Etiquette: What You Need to Know Before Popping the Big Question

Tips to Pull Off a Surprise Proposal + 10 Unique Ideas

How to Choose The Best Wedding Month 

What Season Should You Get Married In?

 Everyone's Getting Engaged and Married in These Months in 2022

When you’re booking vendors for your wedding, you obviously want to partner with [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vendor-checklist) that do an amazing job—and can help you bring your wedding dream to life. But, for many couples, when choosing wedding vendors, there are things that are just as important as quality—including finding vendors that align with their values.

In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), we surveyed thousands of engaged couples to find out what matters to them for their 2022 weddings. What we found is that couples are being more intentional than ever when hiring vendors. Of the couples we interviewed, 44 percent are intentionally supporting small businesses in their wedding planning—and nearly one-third (29 percent) are intentionally hiring wedding vendors with values that align with their own.

So, if you’re looking for wedding vendors that align with your values, you’re not alone. But the question is how, exactly, do you find those vendors? And how do you ensure that, when it comes to wedding vendors, you’re “speaking with your wallet”—and hiring values-based companies that you can feel good about?

## Ask for Recommendations<a id="recs"> </a>

People tend to flock to like-minded people. So, chances are that your friends, family members, and loved ones share similar values with you and your partner—and if any of them have recently gotten married, they can be a great resource for finding vendors that also share those values.

Ask your [recently engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/to-dos-after-you-get-engaged) and/or married friends if they worked with any wedding vendors that they feel would align with your values. Getting a recommendation from someone you know and trust is always a good place to start, because your loved one already knows you and your  partner’s values, and, thus, they can be a great matchmaker in connecting you with vendors that also share those values.

## Do Your Online Research<a id="research"> </a>

As mentioned, hiring wedding vendors that align with a certain value (or set of values) is becoming a major wedding trend. And because hiring values-based wedding vendors is on so many couples’ radars, there is plenty of information on how to do it—all you have to do is find it.
Do a little online research to see what content you can find around how to hire wedding vendors that align with your values. 

For example, here’s an article on [how to find Black-owned wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-find-source-black-owned-wedding-vendors)—and another on [how to find LGBTQIA+ wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-find-lgbtq-wedding-vendors). You can also use social media to connect with vendors that align with the kind of values that you want to partner with—for example, by searching for specific hashtags (either in vendor content or their social media bios), such as #disabilityowned or #womenownedbusiness.

## Search in the Right Places<a id="markets"> </a>

There are a variety of marketplaces where you can find wedding vendors, but not all marketplaces are created equal. If hiring wedding vendors that align with your values is a priority, it’s important to spend your time searching the right marketplaces.

At Zola, we’re committed to bringing together vendors that are not only the best at what they do, but are also diverse in style, budget, and background. Zola vendors also commit to our [Vendor Vows](https://www.zola.com/inspire/vendors/pledge), thus honoring their commitment to respect, transparency, and inclusion, so you can rest assured that every vendor you find on the platform operates with ethics and values that you can trust.

So, whether you’re committed to hiring BIPOC-owned vendors, want to support sustainable wedding practices, or are looking to engage small businesses in your community, at Zola, you can find wedding vendors that align with your values *and* deliver the highest quality services for your big day

## How to Find Wedding Vendors Based on Specific Values<a id="tips"> </a>

Now that you have a general overview of how to find values-based wedding vendors, let’s jump into tips on how to find—and hire—wedding vendors that align with specific values:

### Small Businesses

If you’re committed to hiring small businesses for your wedding, you’re in luck. Most wedding vendors are small businesses—so unless you actively seek out large chains (for example, hiring a wedding photographer from a national chain, instead of hiring a local photographer), the vast majority of vendors you speak with will be small business owners or independent contractors. 

### LGBTQIA+-Owned/Ally

If you’re a LGBTQIA+ couple, an ally, or you just want to support LGBTQIA+ businesses at your wedding, there are a number of marketplaces that focus specifically on LGBTQIA+ and/or LGBTQIA+ friendly wedding vendors—including [Pridezillas](https://www.pridezillas.com/), [Equally Wed](https://equallywed.com/lgbtq-gay-wedding-vendors-venues/), and [Rainbow Wedding Network](https://www.rainbowweddingnetwork.com/).

### BIPOC or Black-Owned

Nearly 14 percent of the couples reported that they were intentionally supporting BIPOC-owned businesses during their wedding planning. And, if hiring BIPOC vendors is a priority for you, there are a number of ways to connect with aligned wedding vendors in your community; in addition to the general tips listed above (such as leveraging social media and retail marketplaces, many of which have BIPOC-specific search functionality), many cities have business associations that can connect you with black and minority-owned businesses—including wedding vendors.

### Women-Owned

There are plenty of women-owned businesses in the wedding industry, and, if you’re committed to supporting female vendors (and female-owned businesses), you can use the same strategies as searching for a LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC-owned business; just change your hashtags and search criteria. (For example, instead of connecting with BIPOC business associations in your area, reach out to business associations focused on women-owned businesses). 

### AAPI-Owned

Searching for AAPI-owned businesses would leverage the same strategy as BIPOC-owned businesses. Again, you would just want to narrow your search criteria to focus on businesses owned by Asian Americans and/or Pacific Islanders.

### LatinX-Owned

If you’re looking to engage LatinX-owned businesses for your wedding, again, take those BIPOC-related search tips—and apply them to LatinX businesses.

### Eco-Friendly

Most vendors that incorporate green, sustainable, and eco-friendly practices into their business operations are vocal about it. So, researching vendors’ social media presence can give you insight into whether they value sustainability and what kind of eco-friendly services they would utilize while supporting your big day—which can help you decide whether they’re the right vendor for you.

### Religious Affiliation 

If you’re committed to working with vendors with a specific religious affiliation, start with [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue)/ceremony sites that align with that specific affiliation (for example, if you’re committed to a Christian wedding, find a local church where you want to host your wedding; if you’re looking for Jewish vendors, lock in the synagogue where you want to [say your “I do’s.”](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows)). A place of worship that’s accustomed to performing wedding ceremonies will likely have an approved vendor list—and if you specify that you want your vendors to also share your religious affiliation, they can point you in the right direction.

### Nonprofit

If you want to partner with nonprofits for your wedding, most areas have directories of all their nonprofits, complete with contact information—and searching those directories is a great way to get in touch with potential nonprofit vendors. (For example, if you are planning a wedding in Oregon, you could search for wedding vendors through the [Nonprofit Association of Oregon’s Directory](https://directory.nonprofitoregon.org/).)

### Supporting Accessibility

Social media (for example, searching the #disabilityowned hashtag) and word-of-mouth recommendations are great ways to find wedding vendors that support disability rights, equality, and accessibility. If you have a specific value in mind, it’s always helpful to ask vendors directly (for example, if you’re looking for an autistic-friendly wedding venue, ask what practices they have in place to make their events inclusive for guests on the autism spectrum.)

## Find the Vendors That Mirror Your Values

Hiring wedding vendors that align with your values is important to a lot of couples. Whether you want to hire a BIPOC makeup artist, an AAPI-owned catering service, or fill your wedding vendor roster with local small businesses, you now have everything you need to go find wedding vendors that will not only do an amazing job, but will also mirror the values that are most important to you. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and find your wedding vendors.

How to Find LGBTQ+ Wedding Vendors

How to Source Black-Owned Wedding Vendors

white bride and groom in front of flower wall , bride holding a bouquet

How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer

Planning 101

The last couple of years have seen to-be-weds’ [preferences shift and evolve](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-future-of-weddings-according-to-wedding-vendors). Now more than ever, engaged couples are putting special consideration into all aspects of their wedding, being extra intentional even with the details. They’re focused on celebrating their unique relationship and showcasing their personalities, notably with [highly specific wedding themes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/make-wedding-stand-out). While more broad themes such as ‘classic elegance’ and ‘rustic’ still have much influence, engaged couples are now more willing to step out-of-the-box. 

If this fits the bill for your ideal celebration, take a look at the following unique themes that are sure to make your wedding personal and noteworthy.

### What Engaged Couples Are Experiencing Now
The numbers don’t lie: Engaged couples are willing to go the extra mile to achieve their dream 2022 wedding. In fact, [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022)—which surveyed over 3,000 engaged people—found that 70 percent are spending more than they anticipated they would to do just that. Sure, going over your budget can be a result of unexpected costs, but more often than not these extra expenses are going towards getting exactly what a couple wants.

On a similar note, 21 percent of those surveyed wrote in and shared that their wedding theme spans outside of the norm. It’s very apparent that a [unique and personal wedding day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/unique-wedding-ceremony-ideas) is a top priority. Here are a few of the categories and themes that Zola couples were inspired by for their 2022 weddings.

## Nature-Inspired<a id="nature"> </a>  
While weddings focused heavily on florals and plant life aren’t exactly new, [nature wedding themes ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/nature-wedding-themes-we-love)are now going hyper-specific. Not only are couples leaning into an abundance of flowers or greenery, but they are creating entire abiances based on specific natural sights. Key elements of these themes are, of course, plant life, but also outdoor settings, color palettes found in nature, and distinct materials and textures (wood, stone, shells, etc.). Inspiration is not only taken from a location’s flora, but all of its outdoor landscape—and its accompanying lifestyle.

### Luxury Italian Garden Party

Garden party weddings have come into immense popularity. Dinner and dancing with a high-end feel among flowers is a dream—now elevate it further with a type of garden in mind. An Italian garden party wedding may feature historic architecture, climbing ivy, luxurious fountains, and manicured hedges. There’s more of a focus on greenery and architecture, though jasmine, lilies, and roses may be abundant.

### Flannels and Mountains

Those who enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors may gravitate towards more mountainous landscapes and aesthetics. Think great summits, towering trees, and a more rustic feel. This style of nature wedding gives ample opportunity to lean into the lifestyle, with plaid accents, wool textiles, and rich neutral color palettes.

### Flora and Fauna of Florida

Nature-themed weddings aren’t limited to your standard nuptial flowers. Florida natives (or those who love the landscape) can lean into the surrounding nature scene to influence their wedding theme. Palm trees and frauns, gazebos, and muted greens and off-whites make for a breezy and lavish outdoor affair.

### Summer Camp

A surefire way to make your wedding unique is to fill it with fun group activities. Fans of warm weather, water sports, and a more laid-back celebration will go crazy for a summer camp-themed wedding weekend. Immerse yourselves in the outdoors with games and excursions reminiscent of youth camps. This one’s also sure to be a hit with families with a lot of children.

## Location-Inspired<a id="local"> </a>  
Broaden your scope of creativity and consider basing your celebration on a special location. These themes can be some of the most unique and personal, since you can take inspiration from places that are important to you as a couple. Key factors for these themes are architectural styles, standout color palettes, super specific decor, and even a set dress code.

### Lowcountry Charleston Charm

A quaint, historical, and often artistic vibe surrounds a Charleston wedding theme. Soft green, white, and even pink and yellow hues reflect the charming city’s architecture, while accent decor can lean in a myriad of directions—colonial,  gothic, victorian, and Art Deco to name a few. Consider mossy plants, draping fabric reminiscent of willow trees, and antique looking fabrics and dinnerware.

### Cottagecore

The cottagecore concept became immensely popular throughout the pandemic, embracing a simpler lifestyle that is harmonious with nature. It harkens back to agricultural and sustainable living, while aesthetically it borrows from the English countryside. Transferring this to your wedding is easy and eye-catching. Utilize a venue with abundant greenery, and make it extra cozy with a warm, neutral color palette and soft, earthy textures. Encourage peasant dresses, drink from vintage teacups, and place dried flowers wherever possible.

### Night Out in Brooklyn

For the couple that loves a night out on the town, lively cities are a tremendous source of inspiration. A Brooklyn location or theme works especially well for those that enjoy an artsy, cool celebration. Picture exposed brick, industrial accents such as metal chairs and lighting fixtures, and a nod or two to the city (if you aren’t near the Brooklyn Bridge or Manhattan skyline, for example) are great ideas. Dim lighting helps create a cool ambiance, which will only be taken to new heights by the addition of a [live band](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-does-a-live-wedding-band-cost).

## Book, Film, and Television-Inspired<a id="hobby"> </a>  
While pandemic lockdowns were undoubtedly hard on everyone, many were given the opportunity to watch and read beloved pieces of media. The love for couples’ favorite books, movies, and television shows has now inevitably poured over into their wedding planning, with small hints and entire themes being built around them. Look to your bookshelves, Letterboxd accounts, and Netflix catalogs for a theme that you and your partner will truly cherish.

### Light “Jurassic Park”

It’d be wrong to call this film anything but a certified classic. The movie, which takes place on a secluded island filled with overgrown plant life and safari-style trails, leaves plenty to be used in your ceremony or reception. Stick to natural elements, such as wood and stone, as much as possible, while incorporating tropical flowers into your florals (fun fact: the fictional island of Isla Nublar is near Costa Rica). If you’re willing, you can even involve dinosaurs on the sly—tiny figurines placed on the lips of drink glasses, for example.

### Light “Lord of the Rings”

It isn’t difficult to be inspired by this beloved book series and film trilogy. The films, especially, stand out for their spectacular scenery and beautiful costuming. Emulate Rivendell, the Elvish valley, with a forest location, castle venue, and abundance of hanging greenery and lights. Or, look to the Shire for a more cottagecore-style tribute.

### “Star Wars”

The conclusion of the sequel trilogy in late 2019 has caused an outpouring of love towards the “Star Wars” franchise. Shamelessly nerdy couples will take no issue with showcasing their love of the series on their wedding day. While you can definitely include a light dose in your theme, it’s just as fun to go all the way. What about a lightsaber tunnel as your grand exit? Perhaps a cloaked Jedi and Sith style wedding party? Consider throwing an epic battle on the dance floor. Any of these will make your wedding one of the most unique across the galaxy.

## Notable Top 2022 Wedding Themes<a id="style"> </a>   
Alongside these noteworthy themes are a slew of stylish ones that are on the rise for 2022. When looking ahead to your own wedding, consider if one of these would make your celebration next level.

### Celestial

Engaged couples are looking to the stars. Celestial wedding styles are glitzy and glamorous without the need for a city location or party-heavy vibe. This theme relies on the inclusion of space-inspired shapes (stars of all styles, moons, constellations) and a shining color palette (pops of gold, silver, or copper are encouraged). Glittering disco balls, navy blue or black as a base color, and a couture-inspired dress code can also elevate a celestial celebration.

### Vintage and Literature

The popularity of BookTok, bookstagrams, and a general love of reading throughout the pandemic has given rise to book and library-themed ceremonies. You can pull inspiration directly from a book of your choice or customize your theme around a love of reading in general. Even if your nuptials and following reception don’t take place in a library or bookstore, you can decorate your space with book-themed signage, centerpieces, vintage looking furniture, and creative uses of book pages. Don’t forget to include your favorite quotes where you can, be it on signs or in your vows.

### Sci-Fi and Fantasy

If “Star Wars” or “Lord of the Rings” specifically aren’t your thing, no worries. A general appreciation for film, specifically sci-fis and fantasies, are becoming hugely popular in the wedding space. Neon color palettes, silver as an accent color, and futuristic clothing and makeup lend to a science fiction feeling, while splendor and regality met with natural elements can pull together a fantasy setting. Both can be taken very literally, a couture route, or be lightly added into a more classic theme.

## What About Your Typical Wedding Themes?
None of this is to say that your [standard, classic wedding themes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-your-wedding-style) are over and done with. From classic and elegant, to rustic, to black tie, these long-time favorites are here to stay. In fact, couples who choose to go with one of these broader themes have ample opportunity to seek out inspiration. Weddings of the past, magazines, and social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest are practically a bottomless well of it. With years of reinterpretations and staple styles, it’s now easier than ever to curate a beloved wedding theme into your own special day. These styles are tried and true, while still being able to [showcase your individuality.](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-ceremony-ideas)

## Bringing Your Theme to Life at Zola
Once you’ve chosen a theme that you love, there’s nothing stopping you from including it in your wedding planning right away. In fact, it’s ideal that you infuse it in your save the dates, invitation paper suites, and website to give your guests an idea of what to expect (and get them excited for it). Keeping this consistent might seem overwhelming, but it’s actually incredibly simple. At Zola, you can transfer the same theme from your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) to your [paper needs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) so that everything seamlessly matches. Simply sign up and navigate to “Website” or “Invites + Paper” to get started.

Sophisticated Wedding Styles We Love

Here's What to Do With All Those Wedding Leftovers

Unique Wedding Themes to Make Your Ceremony Stand Out

Decor + Inspiration

Planning a wedding can be exciting—and, at times, stressful—and as a couple, you want your vision for your big day to come to fruition exactly the way that you dreamed of it. However, there can be times when family and friends offer some help, even at times overstepping boundaries, creating a whole other heap of stress on your plate. 

It’s the familiar adage of having “too many cooks in the kitchen,” when a group of enthusiastic and sometimes pushy people try to plan anything. Except, this time it’s not a family reunion or a trip to the mountains for the holidays, it’s your wedding. Soon, you and your partner’s vision of your dream wedding is lost in a sea of out-dated tips, suggestions, and arts and crafts; and then your ideal perfect day no longer looks familiar. 

In fact, according to [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), a survey of 3,309 engaged couples, wedding planning is no longer a one-person job as most are sharing wedding planning responsibilities in some capacity. 

While enlisting some help is ideal, 2022 couples are being intentional about placing their own wants and needs first when planning their weddings. However, external pressure and family circumstances can distract couples from focusing on celebrating their love. Here are some ways to stop others from taking over your wedding planning. 

## __Stick to Your Budget__

Money can be a tension trigger when it comes to wedding planning. Plan with a firm budget in mind and have a real conversation about what the wedding will look like for you as a couple. How much can you comfortably afford to spend? Seventy percent of couples surveyed said they are spending more than they originally budgeted for. Thirty-three percent of couples said their wedding budget changes were influenced by someone else contributing to the wedding budget, due to family members giving their opinions on how things should be, or parents adding more people to the guest list, and even because of others wanting a certain type of dream wedding. When examining the budget, include how many guests you plan to invite, plus the location. Ensure that you are creating the wedding for you and not trying to have a fantasy wedding for family, friends, or social media. 

## __Choose How to Keep Family Involved in Traditions__

Your wedding is a day to celebrate your union, your love, and creating a new family circle. One of the key parts of your wedding may be to find a way to honor you and your partner’s heritage, family, or cultural traditions. Forty-three percent of couples admitted that they felt pressure to incorporate specific traditions, whether customary American, cultural, or otherwise. They mostly felt the pressure from parents, society, their partner, and cultural or religious obligations. 

You can choose the traditions, if any, that you want to include, and even put a twist on them to fit your big day. For example, tradition has a wedding party surrounding the couple at the altar. You can have your loved ones, whether it’s your parents, grandparents, or siblings, stand with you. If you are Jewish, you can honor family and roots with a [chuppah](https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/chuppah/), a canopy on poles that represents your new home and marriage. You can have guests sign it then attach it to the poles, so that it symbolically has the blessings of loved ones hanging over you. 

Music is another way to include traditions without changing the entire structure of your dream wedding. Music has a way of uniting people and raising their spirits, so if you are planning to incorporate music into your ceremony or reception, why not exchange a playlist of song ideas with your loved ones? You can use the music for special dances with family members, including the father-daughter dance, mother-son dance, or even your first dance as a married couple.

## __Don’t Give into Pressure__

It’s your wedding, and you can invite whomever you want. You should never feel obligated to invite anyone, including family members, especially if there's a good reason to leave them off the list. Nearly 75 percent of couples say that they have felt pressured—mostly from parents, in-laws, and their fellow partner—to invite certain guests. There are many couples who choose not to invite family members for various reasons, but it’s especially hard when it’s because of a strained relationship. 

Even budget constraints can be delicate, since you still have to be aware of people’s feelings. You’re already dealing with a lot of stress planning the wedding, and having to hurt someone’s feelings only increases it. Still, it’s important to be mindful of your family members' feelings and be aware that they actually wanted to share in your big day, so if they ask why they weren’t invited, try not to be offended and understand that they may simply feel left out. Once invited family members hear that some other family members or family friends weren’t invited, they may threaten not to attend your wedding. This is your wedding and your decision, so they have to respect that. Tell them that you’re sorry that they won’t be attending, but don’t give in to them pushing you to change your mind. 

When it comes to co-workers, take a step back and look at the relationship you have with them. Do you hang out outside of work? Are you real friends and super close? Is it your boss? Be mindful that co-workers may also desire a plus one, which shifts your budget if you haven’t allotted for that. Give yourself grace when creating your guest list, and stand by your decision. Don’t invite the people that were left off the guest list because you feel obligated or pressured. Again, it’s your wedding, and with that comes the budget that you have already decided to adhere to, don’t let others push you out of your financial comfort zone when it comes to your wedding.

## __Have a Plan for Uninvited Wedding Guests__
The movie “Wedding Crashers” depicts uninvited wedding guests as fun party-goers that add some spice to a wedding, but, in real life, it’s a whole lot of stress to deal with someone, or a few people that weren’t on the invite list. Twenty-three percent of couples say that they have uninvited guests because the relationship with that individual changed and the couple no longer wanted them to attend the wedding, while other couples had to downsize their guest list, or they discovered that their values didn’t align with the guest. 

#### __Make Your Wedding Website Private__
Your wedding website is to keep your guests privy to the information that they need to know about your wedding day, from the invitation details, to the registry, RSVPs, and for any updates from you and your partner. Making your website private or password protected means that you’ll be able to keep unwanted people from accessing your personal details. That means that anyone that wasn’t invited won’t be able to see any wedding ceremony information that you don’t want them to know. 

#### __Try to Accomodate the Uninvited Guests__
More than likely, the uninvited guest is that plus one (or two) that your friends or family forgot to mention or ask if they could invite. If that happens, there’s no need to get upset and ruin your makeup. Instead, be a good host or hostess and ask your wedding planner, caterer, and venue coordinator to accommodate the extra guests, if possible.

#### __Do Think of Other Ways to Include Non-Invited Family Members__
If you’re having a smaller, intimate wedding and there are several family members that you weren’t able to invite to your celebration, there are still ways to include them. If you feel bad about not inviting them, have a second reception just for them. That celebration can be in the form of a backyard cookout, a cocktail party, or even a big family dinner. It’s totally up to you and your partner, or invite them to the wedding through a virtual streaming platform. 

## __Have Fun Planning Your Wedding Day__

If the wedding planning process is starting to overwhelm you due to the noise from outside forces, try not to let it, but instead focus on what really matters, which is celebrating your love in front of all of your closest family members and friends. Wedding planning is stressful as it is, and planning during a pandemic doesn’t make it any easier. But, couples are feeling more excited than ever. Forty percent say that they are more excited and in love than ever, 42 percent say it’s more meaningful now to be able to celebrate with loved ones, and 28 percent are just ready to party, but a whopping 59 percent said they felt closer to their partner than ever after planning the wedding together. 

Focus on your partner and the vision you both have for the day you make it official. Take this time to be present with your partner and focus on what you both want, instead of what everyone else wants. It’s your wedding, and you should have all of the things that you dreamed of and not what everyone says you should have.


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How to Talk About Marriage When Dating

Getting Started

We get it, it’s your wedding, and you’ll plan every single detail yourself if you want to. However, it’s not realistic for most couples to juggle demanding careers, coordinating travel for loved ones, choosing linens, wedding attire, food, music, and the list goes on. That’s why most couples share the planning responsibilities in some capacity. 

In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022) , we surveyed 3,309 engaged couples to find out who they are, what their priorities are for their 2022 weddings, and what makes these weddings different than ever before.The majority surveyed cited they were doing most of the wedding planning and decision-making by themselves, but some were either doing it together as a couple, or doing it all by themselves. If you’re thinking about asking for help, Zola is here to help. 

## __Make a List__<a id="list"> </a>
If there’s one thing that will help with wedding planning, it’s making a list and checking it twice—or even 10 times. It’s time to sit down with your partner and create a free [Zola wedding planning checklist](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist) of every wedding related to-do that you care about. You can include everything from invitation design to the cake and catering. Then, see if you can delegate some of those to-dos to your loved ones. Most couples split things up with their significant other, members of the wedding party, friends, family, a hired planner, or vendors. 

Here are some reasons why it will be beneficial to split wedding planning duties. 

### __It Relieves Some of Your Stress__
Wedding-related tasks tend to take up a lot of time and heap a lot of stress on your plate. Delegating some of the wedding planning duties will help you hand off some of the time-consuming responsibilities that you may not have the capacity to deal with. Hiring a wedding planner can help with scheduling appointments, dealing with vendors, and work through any issues that could pop up on your big day. 

### __You’ll Get Help with Budgeting and Scheduling__
You and your partner have a wedding budget you need to adhere to, but how can you get the most bang for your buck? Enlist some family members or friends to help shop deals, score discounts, and crunch numbers. 

### __New Ideas and Inspo__

You’ve probably spent hours already scrolling on social media, flipping through bridal magazines, and scouring the internet from one end to the other looking for inspiration for your own wedding. Allowing others to help with the planning duties could give you some fresh inspiration and ideas that can’t be found online. Allow your bestie to tap into his or her creativity and help plan a unique spread for the reception or floral arrangements for the tables. Your partner may have a knack for creating seating charts to keep all the guests happy. Let go of the reins, and split those wedding planning duties up. 

Now that you know the benefits to allowing others to help, let’s take a look at what duties you can split up and delegate to others. 

## __Pre-Wedding Festivities__<a id="split"> </a>  

Lean on your maid of honor and bridesmaids to help plan your engagement party if you’re having one, bridal shower activities, and of course, the bachelorette party. You can also have them handle their own travel arrangements and accommodations, so you don’t have to worry about it. The groomsmen can do the same. Enlist the mother of the bride or groom to be a point of contact for vendors. Also, since the parents host the rehearsal dinner, have them plan it to take that off of your hands. 

### __Play to Their Strengths__   

If you have a bridesmaid or family member that’s crafty with a glue gun and another that is better at staying organized, assign duties that play to those strengths. Also, ask them to participate in other activities like stuffing invitation envelopes, alphabetizing escort cards, getting hands on with some DIY projects, and even making trips with the bride to help make decisions with rental chairs or hair and makeup trials. Ask for help with manageable tasks like tracking down current addresses for your mutual friends on the guest list, following up with late RSVPs and taking the lead on making sure everyone has gotten fitted for their wedding attire. 

### __Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner or Coordinator__<a id="hire"> </a>  

Hiring a wedding planner takes the majority of the wedding planning work off your plate and eases a lot of your stress. Their insider knowledge and connections could actually help with your budget and save you money. There are different degrees of wedding planning assistance: full planning, partial or month-of planning, and day-of planning. 

Make the decision to hire a full wedding planner early on in the process, because this person should be involved in your big decisions from the beginning. We do recommend at least hiring a day-of coordinator to manage the timeline, logistics, and vendor communications during the wedding weekend, so that you can spend your wedding day enjoying every moment and not stressing over every single detail. 

### __Utilize Your Zola Wedding Checklist__

Once you’ve delegated tasks to friends and family and your significant other, it’s time to activate your [Zola Wedding Checklist](https://zola.app.link/1iZ5vJlQNV) to put your to-do list on autopilot. It’s a way to check in and stay organized. You can input your key details and select what guidance you want from the free tool. The checklist can even schedule things out month by month to keep you on track. It will help you with wedding planning and checking items off as things are completed. 

How do you know if your wedding crew has done their to-do tasks? You can always schedule a conference call for updates, questions, and concerns, then check things off in the checklist. Don’t worry if you don’t have a Zola account, here’s a printable [wedding checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist).

### __Have Fun Planning Your Wedding Day__

Wedding planning is stressful as it is, and planning during a pandemic doesn’t make it any easier. But couples are feeling more excited than ever. About 40 percent say they are more excited and in love than ever, 42 percent say it’s more meaningful now to be able to celebrate with loved ones, and 28 percent are just ready to party, but a whopping 59 percent said they felt closer to their partner than ever after planning the wedding together. Don’t let the planning overwhelm you, ask your loved ones for help pulling off your dream big day. 

Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet

How to Plan a Wedding

10 Tips​ to Choose Your Bridesmaids

woman in yellow dress holding antique tea cup with macaroons inside

How To Plan A Bridal Shower To Remember

A variety of Zola thank you note card designs on a desk 

How to Word Wedding Thank You Cards

Meeting that special someone can happen in a myriad of places, but meeting the one that will be your forever bae and partner for the rest of your life is a moment to treasure. <a id="meet"> </a>   

In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), we surveyed 3,309 engaged couples to find out who they are, what their priorities are for their 2022 weddings, and what makes these weddings different than ever before. We found that 2022 couples met at a variety of places and life stages. If you’re single, you may wonder where to find someone. Here’s a look into where our 2022 couples’ love stories started. 

## __Top Places Where Couples Met__<a id="top"> </a>

While your match made in heaven isn’t going to literally fall out of the sky, you can find him or her in one of the following places, like these couples did. 

### 1. At school

Twenty-eight percent of couples say that they met in an educational setting. Think about it, you spend most of your time on campus in your late teens and early 20s, and that’s the time when most people find their other half. Some even end up marrying their high school sweethearts. 

If you’re attending a workshop or some other event at a school, for maybe your child or a niece or nephew, then you could bump into that school principal or teacher that takes your breath away. One survey participant said, “I was visiting my parent’s island where they were born and raised. [My now fiance] was a teacher at one of the schools I was visiting, and I fell in love with him and just wanted to get to know him even more. He says [that] the same goes for him, he had to get to know me and from then on we just knew we would be together.”

### 2. Online dating

Technology is the new wave by dating via an app. Twenty-six percent of couples say that they met through an online dating service or app. “I matched with a guy on Hinge; he set up a date with me and then canceled at the last minute, but told me that his roommate was recently single, so he set up the date to be with him. It was double-blind for me since I didn't know that Hinge guy at all. Turns out, we went to school two hours away, have many mutual friends, but never crossed paths,” says one engaged individual. There are so many apps to try, and you may get frustrated, but don’t give up. Keep swiping up, down, right, and left, until you find someone that catches your eye. 

### 3. Through friends

The friend network still works! Eighteen percent of surveyed people met their partner through a friend, so it may be time to let your friends know that you are ready to mingle. Have your friend introduce you to their single friends. 

### 4. At work 

It may feel weird to date and work in the same place, but for some it works. Twelve percent say that they met their significant other at work. One couple in the survey says that they met while he was a cashier at Target and she was his customer. Another engaged couple shared, “We met as members of a philharmonic chorus and won our first Grammy in 2021” (talk about an award winning connection)! A word of caution, make sure that you know the rules of the workplace, as you may have to inform your human resources department if you start dating your co-worker or even your boss. 

## Other Popular Places Where Couples Met
Sometimes love can appear when you least expect it and when you aren’t even looking for it. Here are some more popular places that engaged couples met. 

### 5. A bar 

You may be thinking that meeting someone at a bar is so cliche, and that it can only mean that you’re looking for a one night stand. Not always! Your other half could just be out with friends and you lock eyes as you are with your friends, and the rest is history! Besides, if you have a drink, that will ease your nerves, so you can get the convo started. 

### 6. Facebook 

You never know what could happen when you accept or send that friend request. Many people have reconnected with an old flame or met a new one via Facebook, whether it’s by sliding into the inbox or exchanging comments on a thread. Facebook also has the dating feature, so the option of dating online is still there. 

### 7. Through family 

Family members love to help their loved ones find love. It might not be so bad, as they just may know what you need. “His grandfather and I worked together at the YMCA. He tried to get us to exchange numbers, without meeting, for a month before we agreed to. We met for our first date two days later,” says one survey participant. Another one added, “We were family friends our entire lives and ultimately (and strategically) [were] seated together at a wedding.” You may not want your family messing with your love life, but sometimes they strike gold.

### 8. Church 

If you are active at church (or another place of worship) and spend a lot of time there, then this may be the spot that you find your other half. From the singles ministries to teaching Sunday school, you never know if you just might pass the communion wafers to your new boo. 

### 9. At the gym 

Getting fit may not be a bad idea when there’s the potential that you can run into your future spouse. You may find yourself on the same treadmill every day beside the same person and then strike up a conversation and realize that you actually have some things in common. Working on a common goal to get healthy or stay healthy may be the bond you form with someone that works or works out at the gym. While it wasn’t at a gym, one couple met performing an athletic activity together. “He fought my ex-boyfriend at a paintball park when we were teenagers, and won.”

### 10. At a restaurant 

Before you question us, hear us out. If you like to go out to eat by yourself, you may notice (or be noticed by) another person dining out solo and decide to join each other for an appetizer. Or, if you are eating at the bar, maybe you hit it off with the bartender or someone sitting nearby. It’s also possible that the waiter or waitress is the one that you’ve been waiting to meet for your whole life. Coffee shops are also an option to potentially meet your significant other. 

## Unique Places Where Couples Met <a id="more"> </a>  
There are so many ways to meet that special person who will ultimately become your spouse. 

Keep an open mind, like these couples did. 

### 11. Craigslist 

One couple met by responding to an ad. “He responded to my friend's ad looking for a subletter.” That one piece of furniture that you’re wanting to buy or sell on Craigslist could lead you to the one that grabs a piece of your heart.

### 12. Chuck E. Cheese 

A teenage love can start anywhere, and it did for this couple. “I was 14 and he was 15, both in attendance at a family member’s birthday.” But, as an adult, you may be attending your godchild’s birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese and meet your future partner on the other side of the building attending a family member’s party. It can happen! 

### 13. At a Renaissance Fair 

What better way to meet someone than at a place where your interests intersect? Imagine a 16th century European style art and entertainment festival that blends history and fantasy through outdoor theater with throwback costumes? You may just find your Romeo or Juliet. 

### 14. UberPool 

With UberPool, riders heading in the same direction choose to share a ride. So, if you’re heading downtown and the Uber driver picks up another rider, you may just hit it off. Who knows, it could be fate.

Regardless of where these couples met, they are feeling more excited than ever. Forty percent say that they are more excited and in love than ever. 

## Meet Zola, The One Place to Start Wedding Planning

After getting engaged, you and your partner need to get hooked up with all the right tools and services to make your online wedding planning as easy as possible. Set up a Zola account to:
- Create a [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry)
- Set up your personal [wedding planning Checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)
- Build a [free wedding website](https://zola.app.link/2iZ5vJlQNV)
- [Order save the dates and invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)
- [Browse wedding inspiration](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/weddings)
- [Book your wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-venues)
- Download the [Zola Weddings App](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/zola-weddings/id1224719355?ls=1&mt=8) on all your mobile devices (even those [Androids](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.zola.android.wedding&hl=en)) for even more wedding inspiration.
- [Follow Zola](https://www.facebook.com/zola/) on your [favorite social channels](https://www.instagram.com/zola/) for unbeatable inspiration and advice. 
- Download Zola’s [12-month wedding planning timeline](https://zola.app.link/ARW1FJlQNV) (if you aren’t using our digital Wedding Checklist tool).

For more tips and guidance on pre-wedding festivities, check out our [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) expert advice for [engaged couples](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/pre-wedding-activities/getting-engaged).


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groom reading vows during wedding ceremony to bride

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Pre-Wedding Activities

Wedding planning is stressful, and when you throw in opinions and takeovers from others, it can get downright out of control. It’s realistic to ask for some help with organizing your ceremony and/or reception, but at what point do you draw boundaries when mom or your best friend tries to take over the planning of your dream day? Wedding planning is no longer a one-person job, in fact most couples are sharing the planning responsibilities in some capacity.

<a id="one"> </a>  
In [Zola’s First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), we surveyed 3,309 engaged individuals to find out who they are, what their priorities are for their 2022 weddings, and what makes these weddings different than ever before. The majority of couples surveyed cited that they were doing most of the wedding planning and decision making by themselves, while some were either doing it together as a couple, or doing it all by themselves. Zola is here to help navigate potential pre-wedding fights so that you can stop others from taking over your wedding planning. 

### __Everyone Keeps Playing Wedding Planner__
It can be frustrating when friends and family are being super opinionated and trying to influence your wedding decisions. When this happens, take a breath, detach, and reflect on how to proceed by trying to figure out what’s causing their behavior. Is it jealousy? Wishing they had planned their own dream wedding? It’s possible they are overly excited and living out their wedding day dreams through you. It’s you and your partner’s day, so it’s important to let people feel included, but not control it. Be firm, but also let them know that you appreciate their ideas; however, make it clear that you really want to personalize your day with your partner in your own way. 

### __Set Boundaries and Split the Planning__<a id="split"> </a>  
Your well-intentioned mom or mother-in-law may not realize that blowing your phone up with helpful ideas or questions about how she can help really isn’t that helpful. You don’t have to shut her down completely, but you do have to set boundaries early on. Make a list and figure out what roles you want the people in your life to play, and then split the wedding planning up. Try not to bruise her ego, but instead focus on the things that she can do to help make wedding planning an easy and enjoyable experience.  

### __Budgeting Balancing__ <a id="budget"> </a>  
If a chunk of your budget is coming from your parents, then it’s inevitable that they will want to have a say in the planning of the wedding. Things can get super heated when you sit down to figure out who is paying for what and trying to stay under budget. It’s important to sit down with everyone involved to create a concrete budget and prioritize expenses. The more that you put on the table at first, the easier it will be to alleviate some of the drama later. 

With your parents, it’s important to discuss how involved they will be with financial decisions on everything from backdrops, flowers, and even wedding attire. In fact, 70 percent of couples are spending more than they originally budgeted, while 33 percent of couples’ wedding budget changes occur as a direct result of someone else contributing to their wedding budget. Some of those changes include family putting pressure and opinions on how things should be, family wanting to add more people to the guest list, and others wanting their idea of a dream wedding. Draw boundaries early on when it comes to the budget. 

### __Don’t Argue About Your Decisions__  
When it comes to your guest list, it’s you and your partner's list of the people that you want present to celebrate your wedding day. As mentioned, oftentimes families will want to add more people to the guest list, and parents will want to add some of their friends from near and far. Nearly 75 percent of couples surveyed felt pressured to invite certain guests. Sixty percent felt the heat from their parents and in-laws, 21 percent got it from their partner, 13 percent from relatives, and nine percent from co-workers. Here are some ways to handle the pressure to invite guests that you may not want in attendance. 

- __Stick to Your Budget:__ Firmly let the pressure bearers know that the budget is tight and you cannot afford to add more people than allotted. Some family members and friends may not make the cut and, as a result, may get upset. In that case, if they start debating your decision, don’t argue about it. Instead, give them a warning that it’s something you don’t want to discuss. If they continue to ignore your request, politely end the conversation. It’s not worth getting into an argument that could get nasty. 
- __Stream Virtually:__ If budgeting is causing the guest list to be smaller than originally planned, consider streaming the wedding and inviting family and friends to attend virtually so that they can still witness your nuptials. 
- __Don’t Invite Anyone from Work:__ The easiest way to avoid any awkward situations and drama in the office is to not invite any of your (or your partner’s) co-workers to your wedding. If someone asks, you can tell them that no one is invited from work, which will give you an easy out. 
- __Plan for Uninvited Guests:__ Twenty-three percent of couples still have uninvited guests show up to their wedding. Most often, the reasons are that their relationship has changed and they don’t want them in attendance, they had to downsize the guest list, or they found that their values just don’t align. More than likely, the uninvited guest is that plus one (or two) that your friends or family forgot to mention or simply didn’t ask if they could invite. If that happens, there’s no need to get upset and ruin your makeup. Rather, be a good host or hostess and ask your wedding planner, caterer, and venue coordinate to accommodate the extra guests, if possible.

### __Don’t Allow Yourself to Be Pressured__<a id="firm"> </a>  
Before you fly off the handle and react to others taking over the wedding planning, sit down with your significant other and talk about how to handle the situation, so that you don’t allow yourself to be pressured. Whether it’s your family or your partner’s family trying to interfere, it may be helpful to approach them as a couple to talk about your concerns and to remind them that this is your wedding. 

### __Have Fun Planning Your Wedding Day__
Wedding planning is stressful as it is, and planning during a pandemic doesn’t make it any easier. But, couples are feeling more excited than ever. 

- Forty percent say that they are more excited and in love than ever. 
- Forty-two percent say that it’s more meaningful now to be able to celebrate with loved ones, and 28 percent are just ready to party. 
- A whopping 59 percent said they felt closer to their partner than ever before after planning the wedding together. 

Don’t let the planning overwhelm you, instead just have fun organizing all of the components of your big day. Draw boundaries with others trying to influence your decisions, so that there’s not a takeover in the process. Let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help make your wedding planning process easy with everything—from checklists to registries—in one place, so that you don’t have to stress. 


How to Combine Your Things and Move In Together

How To Let People Know They're No Longer Invited To Your Wedding

You Need a Wedding Day Emergency Kit: Here's What to Include 

Maybe a family member asked if they’re going to be able to bring their toddler to the wedding. Or, maybe the idea of a child howling while you try to say your vows stresses you out. Whatever the case, you’re starting to consider whether it’s worth including kids on your invite list.

<a id="kids"> </a>  
According to [Zola's First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), a survey of more than 3,300 couples, most nearlyweds are approaching wedding planning with both themselves and their guests in mind. Approximately 68 percent of couples are planning to invite more than 100 people, and 47 percent are including kids in that number.

With a year of big celebrations ahead, there’s a lot to look forward to; however, that also means that there are a lot of decisions to make. For many, whether or not to make their wedding family-friendly is high on that list. So, let’s start with the pros:

## The Pros of Inviting Kids to a Wedding<a id="pros"> </a>

### __Everyone Will Feel Welcome__
No one likes to ask “Can I bring my kids?” By including them in your nuptials, many families will immediately feel more at ease. When it comes to larger families, they’re more likely to attend the wedding if they know that bringing their kids is an option. You’re also less likely to run the risk of any confusion or awkwardness with families who have older kids who might feel left out.

### __They’ll Add an Extra Special “Pizazz” to the Day__
While a child crying in the middle of your ceremony aisle might not sound like your idea of a good time, it does make for one-of-a-kind photos. The same goes for the cake-adorned clothes that they’re likely to parade after dessert, or the quirky dance moves that they’re showing off at the reception. If you’re the type of couple who loves all the little nuances of life—flaws and all—then letting kids be part of your celebration might be the way to go.

### __You’ll Simplify Things for Your Guests__
Just like with weddings, kids require careful planning. This rings particularly true when parents are forced to find alternative arrangements for their children while they’re out on the town. By allowing them to bring their kids to your wedding, you’re likely relieving them of the time, stress, and money involved in finding a babysitter while they’re gone. This fact is especially important to consider if your wedding is somewhere remote or difficult to get to. However, even with the pros in mind, there are a few cons to consider.

## The Cons of Inviting Kids to a Wedding<a id="cons"> </a>

### __You’ll Need to Consider Them Throughout the Planning Process__ <a id="plans"> </a>  
While having a kid-friendly celebration might make life easier for your guests, it’s definitely going to complicate things for you. Juice boxes, high chairs, and family-friendly entertainment are now all things that you’ll need to incorporate in your wedding-day plans. It also makes details such as long ceremonies, plated dinners, and even open bars a little bit trickier to manage. You don’t know what you don’t know, so make sure that you do some research (or talk to a planner) to have a better idea of what you’re getting into.

### __Families May Feel Obligated to Bring Their Kids__
While inviting kids makes everyone feel welcome, holding an “adults only” event encourages many couples to get out and enjoy themselves without their kids—something they might not take the time to do without a little nudge. While some couples might feel the need to stay at home with their kids, others might embrace the opportunity to get away. This fact is especially true for destination affairs or venues that aren’t particularly conducive to family-friendly gatherings.

### __Kids Don’t Always Behave__
That’s probably an understatement… but you get the gist. If you’re someone who’s very particular about how things are done, or you’re already nervous about all the things that could go wrong, inviting kids may not be the best decision for you. However, if you don’t mind a little bit of crying during the ceremony, or you find the idea of a fingerprint in your wedding cake more endearing than irksome, you’ll be just fine—kids and all.

Two things can be true at once: While kids are a lot of fun, they’re also a lot of work. So, if you want to keep things classy and exclusive, hosting an event for adults only might be the way to go. However, if you feel that your wedding will be missing some charm without children running around, that’s okay too. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so what’s most important is to make the decision that resonates the most with you.


Pros and Cons of Inviting Kids to a Wedding

How to Set Up a Wedding Kids Table

How to Say No Kids in the Wedding Invitation

6 Ways to Include Your Kids in Your Wedding

How to Invite Kids to the Wedding

How to Keep Your Kids Entertained at the Wedding

With the many changes that weddings have endured in the last 18 months, plus ones for guests have been a common point of discussion (and contention). Should everyone be given a plus one? Is it fair to only include plus ones for guests who are engaged or married? What do you do if someone asks to bring a plus one?

These are just a few of the considerations that many couples are having in regards to letting your guests bring someone. According to Zola’s 2022 wedding planning survey, [The First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2022), approximately 26 percent of couples are allowing plus ones for everyone, while around 60 percent are only inviting plus ones for those in serious relationships.

So, how do you know where to draw the line? And, most importantly, how do you decide what’s best for your big day? Weighing pros and cons is a good place to begin. 

## The Pros of Inviting Plus-Ones To Your Wedding<a id="pro"> </a>

### __It Adds a Layer of Comfort__
It’s likely that you have numerous friends and relatives who might not know many people at your wedding. By allowing a plus one, you’re putting those guests at ease, as well as increasing the chances of them having a good time. For those who are extremely dedicated to the comfort of their guests, this might be something to consider when making both planning and financial decisions. If you’re only allowing plus ones for a select few, make sure that you pay special attention to those who might feel removed from the rest of the group.

### __You Won’t Be Stepping on Anyone’s Toes__
While it’s not your job to please everyone, there’s often a generalized assumption (though we’re not quite sure why) that a wedding guest is obligated to bring a plus one. If you don’t feel strongly one way or another, allowing plus ones for everyone is a simple way to appease even the more difficult guests. This courtesy also saves you from the discomfort of having to say no or trying to explain yourself when people come asking questions.

### __It Can Lead to a Bigger Celebration__ <a id="add"> </a>  
If your motto is “the more the merrier,” allowing plus ones is probably the way to go. When it comes to larger weddings, you won’t be spending a lot of dedicated time with each individual guest, so who they bring becomes a little less important. It also helps fill that void, so that fewer guests feel like they didn’t get enough quality time with the couple. It’s rare that people complain when they’re too busy having a good time.

While these reasons alone are quite compelling, it’s important to also consider the cons.

## The Cons of Inviting Plus-Ones To Your Wedding<a id="con"> </a>

### __It’s Significantly More Expensive__
While not everyone brings a plus one, many of your guests probably will want to. That means you’ll need more food, more table settings, and a bigger dance floor. While these costs might not seem significant on an individual scale, they really add up. The courtesy of allowing plus ones is also a little harder to financially plan for, since people often decide whether or not they’re coming to the wedding long before they consider whether or not they’re going to bring someone.

### __You Run the Risk of Unruly or Unlikeable Guests__
While it’s not likely that your loved ones will invite someone with questionable morals to your gathering, there’s always a bit of a risk when you allow every person on your guest list a plus one. While this might not eliminate the need for plus ones altogether, it’s definitely something to consider as you decide which guests should be allowed a plus one. This point particularly applies to smaller celebrations where the odd person out might draw more unwanted attention.

### __Some People May Feel Left Out__<a id="few"> </a>  
When it comes to plus ones, most couples have to draw the line somewhere. By allowing plus ones, you put yourself in the position of making some difficult decisions, such as limiting plus ones to those who are married or in a long-term relationship. On the flip side, some of your guests might feel similarly if they can’t find someone to bring in time for your big day. While eliminating plus ones doesn’t get rid of all of the awkwardness for your guests, it’s definitely something worth thinking about.

In conclusion, choosing whether or not to invite plus ones is a fine balance. While there are solutions that might seem obvious to you and your partner, that doesn’t mean that they’ll make sense to your friends and family. Whatever you decide, make sure that you follow your gut and don’t allow yourself to be swayed by outside influences. What’s most important on your wedding day, is to have the people in attendance who you love the most, and ultimately those people will support whatever decision you make.
