Weddings have undergone a seismic change in the last century, only accelerated by the recent coronavirus pandemic.

In 1958, men married at average age of 22.6, women at 20.2. Now people marry for the first time in their early thirties. In 2017, half of adults living in England and Wales were married, a halving since 1940. Gay weddings more than doubled in 2017 too, when same-sex weddings were finally legalised.

Today, people don’t marry for social status or financial stability and only 21% of weddings take place in a church. First and second weddings bring together blended families. Regardless of age, religion, family, gender identity or sexuality, weddings are for love, not acceptance. 

Beyond these societal changes, the pandemic and lockdowns have changed the weddings people want. From micro to supersize, sustainable to sequel, inside or out, people are choosing bespoke weddings individual to them and their needs. With new venues and more places for weddings than ever, venues need to capitalise on new trends to remain competitive, and secure the best bookings for 2022-23.