The wedding industry has always been thought to be recession-proof, but it appears as if the weakening economy has taken a toll there as well. According to a report from The Wedding Report.com, the average cost of a wedding fell 24% last year, from $28,704 in 2007 to $21,814 in 2008. This confirms what I’ve been hearing from other wedding professionals I’ve been talking to, as well as a slew of media reports coming out of many of the bridal fairs that have been held this month.

But wedding costs have not dropped because vendors have lowered prices, it’s because shrinking budgets mean that couples are forced to prioritize more and make some tough choices when considering options for their wedding.

Here are links to some of the more interesting stories that I’ve come across that focus on wedding planning in a tough economy. You should get a few good tips you can use if you, too, are planning a wedding or special event on a significantly reduced budget.

Recession? Time to Slash the Flower Budget

Recession may force brides to cut costs on wedding, but not on the gown

Tough economy forces couples to balance wedding fantasies, finances

Couples’ big-day budgets smaller

Economy Has Some Brides Blushing

Couples cutting back on dream nuptials

Expo offers ideas to help future brides

Recession weddings

Planning a Wedding on a Budget

I’m certain there will be more stories written about the effects of the economy on wedding planning as the wedding season approaches. If you have any stories or tips to share, I’d love to hear them.

Related Resources

• How to develop a sensible wedding budget
• Wedding planning tips from the professionals at Marriott
• Wedding flower pictures from a few of our recent weddings
• How to cut your wedding costs today