Wedding styles and stats changing with the times

July 7, 2011

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that the number of weddings is on the increase, with recent research indicating the emerging attitudes of bridal couples are changing and there is a trend towards creating a more unique wedding day – without the religious aspect.

More and more Australian couples are choosing to go down this path, either no longer identifying with a religion or simply not incorporating it into their wedding vows. Most notably, the demand for the services of wedding celebrants has grown with more than two thirds of couples seeking out celebrants rather than church ministers.

Dee Collins, Event Organiser for the it’s my wedding Expos on the Sunshine Coast says that attendance at bridal expos this year has increased significantly with a large percentage of the brides attending their expos seeking specific services such as civil celebrants.

“These days it’s possible to choose any type of wedding – gone are the traditional days when everyone had to have a church service followed by a sit-down three course reception with a band. These days brides are spoilt for choice and our expo exposes them to a huge array of options,” said Dee.

“We have found couples today are looking to create a wedding that reflects their personal style and therefore unique options. This is why we showcase award-winning wedding artisans who are seeking to inspire couples with the countless options available to them for their wedding”.

Stephanie Neal, the Noosa Wedding Celebrant, says that opting for a civil celebrant equates to unparalleled choice for couples wishing to personalise their ceremony.

“Couples can select everything from the location, time of day, theme or style to the wording of the ceremony. I’ve loved being involved with weddings made unique and individual with couples choosing rituals and personalised touches to make their day unforgettable. I knew a couple who elected to marry on surfboards in an intimate circle formation whilst holding their children’s hands. What you include on your wedding day is only limited by your imagination!” said Stephanie.

Another interesting trend emerging is more and more couples already have children when they get married. It’s My Wedding research shows that 80% of those surveyed already have children who will play a pivotal part in the couple’s wedding such as holding the wedding rings or doing a reading.

As far as most popular months of the year go, March, November and October are the most popular months to get married in Australia. This year hosts the interesting double digits date of 11/11/11 which is already proving to be a popular one according to wedding suppliers here on the Coast.

For brides wanting to get started on their planning, whether it’s for 11/11/11, next year or beyond, the it’s my wedding expo at Noosa Springs Spa and Golf Resort on Sunday July 24 is the last wedding expo on the Sunshine Coast for this year.

For more information please visit www.itsmywedding.com.au or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/itsmywedding.com.au

Ends.

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