Tariffs & Wedding Planning

If you’re here, you’re not alone. Couples, guests and small business owners are worried and wondering how, when, and to what extent tariffs will impact them. We looked into what couples were most worried about and we’re sharing what we found as well as our perspective.

Floral by Ordinary Seed | Photo by Ashley Hamm Photography

Top 10 Wedding Tariff Worries

1. Increased Costs Across the Board: Users express worry that tariffs will inflate the prices of various wedding-related goods, from fashion and decor to stationery materials, packaged favors, flowers and alcohol, making weddings even more expensive
   
   Validation: It's understandable to feel anxious about potential price increases. Tariffs can indeed ripple through the supply chain, affecting various wedding elements.
   
   Advice: Let's focus on what we can control. Explore vendors known for their transparent pricing and discuss budget allocation and attrition early on. The marriage is the priority and we can create a meaningful celebration within your comfort zone.
   

2. Impact on Wedding Fashion: A significant concern revolves around wedding attire, as many are imported. Couples fear substantial price increases, potentially making their dream fashion unaffordable. Some report already seeing price hikes in fashion salons.
   
   Validation: Wedding fashion can be a significant emotional and financial investment, and the worry about tariff-related price hikes makes so much sense.
   
   Advice: Explore a range of options, including local designers, trunk shows with potential discounts, and even consider pre-owned or sample sales. It is possible to find an outfit without compromising your financial well-being. Your joy on the day matters far more than the label or the original price.
   

3. Uncertainty and Budgeting Difficulties: The unpredictability of tariff implementation and potential changes makes budgeting extremely challenging for couples. They struggle to determine the final cost of items and services.
   
   Validation: The fluctuating nature of tariffs makes precise budgeting challenging, and that uncertainty is frustrating, scary, and makes planning feel much less “sure” than in the past.
   
   Advice: Build a flexible budget with contingency funds. We'll prioritize essential elements and explore cost-effective alternatives for and skipping less critical items. Open communication with vendors about potential price adjustments will be key, and we suggest factoring in some buffer for unforeseen circumstances.
   

4. Vendor Pricing and Contracts: There are questions about how vendors will handle tariffs. Some couples are inquiring if existing contracts will be honored or if vendors will pass on the increased costs. Some contracts have clauses allowing for price changes.
   
   Validation: It's wise to be proactive about understanding vendor contracts in light of potential tariffs. You and most other couples and even vendors assumed those market rate clauses were just CYA clauses.
   
   Advice: Carefully review all of your vendor contracts, paying close attention to clauses regarding price changes or unforeseen costs. We'll have open conversations with vendors about their pricing policies and build relationships based on transparency and mutual understanding. Remember, we're a team working towards your special day.
   

5. Sourcing Alternatives: Users are discussing the possibility of avoiding tariffs by buying local, purchasing from untariffed countries, or considering DIY options to mitigate rising costs.
   
   Validation: Exploring alternative sourcing takes extra time, energy and investment. You’re very likely short on all those things and that is inconvenient and upsetting.
   
   Advice: Network with talented local artisans, suppliers, and small businesses who offer materials, items, and services. Consider DIY options where it aligns with your vision, skills, and capacity. Focusing on local and sustainable choices can often lead to more personalized and meaningful details. It’s also a great reminder to support local small business, especially those that are owned by marginalized communities.
   

6. Impact on Guests: Some users are concerned about how tariffs might affect their guests, particularly those traveling internationally, due to potential increases in travel-related costs.
   
   Validation: Your consideration for your guests' potential travel expenses and safety is thoughtful. And, your guests have to make decisions for themselves based on their own priorities, you may feel responsible for them, but you aren’t. You are one couple and they are many adult guests.
   
   Advice: Ask your honeymoon travel agent if they can share insight about potential travel cost implications early on and share it with guests as early as possible. Suggesting a range of accommodation options and local transportation tips can also be helpful for your guests’ experience. Ultimately, their presence and support are the most valuable gifts.
   

7. Transparency from Vendors: Couples are emphasizing the importance of vendors being transparent about potential tariff-related price increases and how they will be managed.
   
   Validation: Expecting transparency from your vendors is absolutely reasonable and crucial for a trusting partnership.
   
   Advice: Prioritize working with vendors who are known for their open communication and ethical business practices. We are currently asking direct questions about tariff contingency plans and ensure they commit to keeping us informed of any potential price changes promptly. Additionally, we clarify attrition and allocation options to facilitate flexibility.
   

8. Timing of Purchases: There's a discussion around the best time to make purchases to avoid or minimize the impact of tariffs, with some suggesting buying sooner rather than later.
   
   Validation: It makes sense you’re feeling urgency or stuck about what to book and purchase when. Strategizing the timing of purchases to potentially avoid tariff hikes is a proactive approach.
   
   Advice: Based on current information and vendor insights, create a timeline for key purchases. However, we'll balance this with not rushing important decisions. We'll stay informed about any potential tariff changes and adjust our strategy accordingly, always prioritizing thoughtful choices over hasty ones.
   

9. Second-hand and Off-the-Rack Options: Some users are considering purchasing second-hand attire or off-the-rack options to potentially save money in light of increasing import costs.
   
   Validation: Considering second-hand or off-the-rack options is a savvy way to manage costs without sacrificing style. It’s also natural for this to feel disappointing if you had your heart set on something specific or custom.
   
   Advice: Intentionally shop for reputable resale boutiques. Often, these choices offer unique finds and contribute to a more sustainable approach. Consider asking family for vintage fashion that can be used or repurposed for an extra sentimental touch. Your personal style and comfort are paramount, regardless of where the materials and construction originate or what the label says.
   

10. Rethinking Wedding Plans: For some couples, the added financial burden due to tariffs is causing them to reconsider their wedding plans altogether, with some considering eloping or having smaller, less traditional celebrations.
    
    Validation: It's completely understandable to re-evaluate plans when faced with unexpected financial pressures. Your marriage is the foundation, and the celebration should reflect your values and resources.
    
    Advice: Let's have an open and honest conversation about your priorities. We can explore various wedding styles and scales that align with your budget and vision. A smaller, more intimate celebration is as meaningful and beautiful, with a curated focus on your priorities. This includes reassessing your guest list to consider the burden of travel and hosting a larger group.

Catering by Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown | Photo by Ashley Hamm Photography

As you navigate the complexities of wedding planning, including factors like potential tariffs, remember that the heart of this journey is your commitment to each other. Take some time as a couple to identify and define your priorities and vision. Reach out if you're seeking guidance in crafting an intentional and meaningful wedding plan that aligns with your values and budget.