Wedding Trends: From Intimate Gatherings to Grand Celebrations

The wedding industry is experiencing a notable shift in trends, with the intimate wedding trend, which gained popularity during the pandemic, losing some of its momentum. While couples still appreciate smaller gatherings, grand celebrations are making a comeback, reflecting a desire for larger, more elaborate weddings.

From Intimate to Grand: A Post-Pandemic Shift

Ari Dinata, a decoration consultant from Pisilia Decoration, provides insight into this evolving trend. He notes that while intimate weddings continue to hold appeal, the demand has decreased compared to the pandemic years. "Intimate weddings are still attractive, but they were more popular in the past," Ari observed at the Jakarta Wedding Festival 2024.

The pendulum has swung back towards grand celebrations as couples prioritize larger weddings with a more extensive guest list. "Things are back to normal now. Many are hosting big receptions with thousands of guests," Ari added.

The Cost of Grand Celebrations

The return to grand weddings comes with a significant financial investment. The larger guest list necessitates a larger venue and catering requirements, driving up costs considerably. "If you have thousands of guests, you need a big venue, and the costs skyrocket. The wedding decorations and overall event require significant attention," Ari explains.

Grand weddings can cost hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars, depending on the couple's preferences and the scale of the celebration. The cost of the venue, catering, decorations, entertainment, and other associated expenses can quickly add up.

The Appeal of Grand Weddings

Despite the significant cost, many couples embrace grand weddings because they view it as a once-in-a-lifetime event. It's an opportunity to celebrate their love with a large gathering of family and friends, creating lasting memories.

Moreover, grand weddings offer a chance to reconnect with loved ones, particularly after the isolation of the pandemic. "After the pandemic, there's a desire to reconnect with people, and weddings are a great way to do that," Ari concludes.

The shift back to grand weddings reflects a desire for larger celebrations, showcasing the enduring appeal of a traditional wedding experience. As couples plan their big day, they are embracing the opportunity to share their joy with a wider circle of loved ones, marking a return to more elaborate and festive weddings.