Indian couples are increasingly opting for destination weddings, with 45% willing to boost budgets by up to 50% for an extraordinary experience. Younger generations are driving this trend, seeking picturesque backdrops and unique celebrations. Pre-wedding festivities are also on the rise, with couples investing in lavish events that reflect their aspirations. To manage costs, couples are exploring offbeat destinations and off-peak periods, leveraging discounts and personalized experiences. Planning platforms and expert advice are aiding in selecting venues that align with budgets and preferences, ensuring memorable celebrations.
As the allure of destination weddings continues to captivate hearts, a remarkable 45 percent of Indian couples are wholeheartedly willing to expand their budgets by up to 50 percent to transform their special day into an extraordinary adventure.
Anticipation is mounting with the wedding season on the horizon, with wedding planners noting a substantial surge in inquiries for destination weddings. The trend is being fueled by a growing number of Gen Z and millennial couples who aspire to craft enduring memories against picturesque backdrops such as sun-kissed beaches, cultural marvels, or regal palaces.
The recent 'Destination 'I Do' survey conducted by Skyscanner, a renowned global travel app, illuminates India's escalating romance with destination weddings. A striking 85 percent of survey participants were actively planning or had already savored the experience of a destination wedding. Interestingly, the data reveals a higher inclination among Gen Z individuals, constituting 49 percent, compared to millennials at 33 percent, towards embracing the concept of a destination wedding. This shift underscores a growing preference for distinctive, unforgettable, and visually captivating wedding affairs among India's younger demographics.
Conducted in July 2024, the survey engaged 2,000 respondents from India, shedding light on the evolving landscape of wedding celebrations in the country.
The survey underscores a prevalent trend in India, where a staggering 66 percent of respondents exhibit eagerness towards hosting lavish pre-wedding events that mirror the opulence and splendor synonymous with Indian nuptials.
Among the respondents, 33 percent envision a joyous weekend retreat with their dear ones, 32 percent fancy a cruise party with their closest companions, while 29 percent dream of an elegant Italian-inspired soirée.
Mohit Joshi, the Travel Trends and Destination Expert at Skyscanner, remarked, “Destination weddings are enchanting Indian couples, transforming their travel dreams into magnificent celebrations.”
The survey further unveils that couples are placing a premium on distinctive experiences and are ready to invest more in crafting celebrations that authentically mirror their aspirations. “Beyond mere extravagance, they are meticulously orchestrating every detail, striking a harmonious balance between grand gestures and astute choices,” shared Joshi.
The growing popularity of destination weddings is underlined by a significant finding that 45 percent of Indian couples are prepared to stretch their budgets by up to 50 percent to curate an unforgettable wedding experience.
Manya Singh, the Co-Founder of Weddingplz.com, a leading wedding vendor search portal, mentioned, “While average expenditures may fluctuate, a rough estimate suggests that couples allocate approximately 20-25 percent more towards destination weddings compared to traditional celebrations, considering the travel and accommodation expenses.”
Yearning for novelty and exclusivity, Indian couples are increasingly veering away from conventional choices to explore offbeat destinations, steering clear of overcrowded hotspots and overpriced locales. This quest for uniqueness is propelling them towards unconventional, less-traveled destinations that offer a refreshing departure from conventional wedding venues.
For instance, a noteworthy 83 percent of Indian respondents in the survey express willingness to forgo conventional wedding spots like Shimla or Goa in favor of lesser-known gems such as Gokarna or Kalimpong.
To discover a destination that aligns with your budgetary constraints, consider registering on specialized wedding planning platforms that offer tailored search functionalities. “These platforms empower you to filter venues based on your financial plan,” advised Anam Zubair, the Director of Consumer Marketing at WeddingWire India, a prominent wedding planning platform. By specifying your budget range, preferred location, and desired services, you can streamline your search and pinpoint options that resonate with your financial objectives.
WeddingWire India's research also spotlights the surging popularity of unconventional destinations like Mahabalipuram in Chennai and the Kukas village in Jaipur, Rajasthan. These hidden gems exude a unique charm and intimate ambiance, enabling couples to craft truly distinct and personalized wedding celebrations that mirror their individual styles.
“Accessing reviews and ratings from couples who have hosted weddings at various venues can aid in decision-making and provide insights into the value for money offered by different locations,” emphasized Zubair.
While selecting the perfect destination is pivotal, planning a destination wedding necessitates prudent consideration of multiple factors. As Joshi emphasized, “Balancing the dream with the reality of costs is crucial.” The survey reaffirms this sentiment, with 41 percent of Indian respondents prioritizing cost considerations when selecting a venue for their destination wedding, underscoring the significance of fiscal prudence in the decision-making process.
Mapping out a destination wedding journey entails comprehending the cost breakdown, a facet that can fluctuate significantly based on various elements. Zubair recommends allocating roughly 45 percent of your budget towards venue, accommodation, and catering expenses, 10 percent for travel costs, 5 percent for photography and videography, and so forth (refer to graphic). These figures are approximate and should be adjusted based on your specific requirements.
"Tailoring your guest list to align with your budget and exploring local resources in unconventional destinations can yield cost-effective solutions," advised Vikaas Gutgutia, the Founder & MD of FNP Weddings. Additionally, consider the legal and logistical considerations of your chosen location, such as permits for beach or heritage site weddings, noise regulations, and local statutes, he added.
By meticulously planning and researching these facets, you can guarantee a seamless and unforgettable destination wedding experience.
Traditionally synonymous with auspicious dates or 'Muhurat,' Indian weddings are now embracing off-peak periods at exotic venues, resulting in substantial cost efficiencies. By venturing beyond traditional timelines, couples can leverage reduced rates and special discounts, rendering their dream destination weddings more cost-effective and memorable.
According to Singh, “During off-peak seasons, resorts and hotels are more amenable to negotiations, offering an array of discounts and incentives to secure bookings.” This presents a valuable opportunity for couples to trim expenses and realize their dream destination wedding at a more affordable rate.
“Selecting an off-season date for a destination wedding can yield significant cost savings, contingent on the location, venue, and available promotions,” noted Zubair. She added that opting for an off-peak date could potentially slash wedding expenses by 10 to 30 percent or more compared to peak season rates.
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