AUSTRALIAN2019 INDUSTRY REPORT SHANNON STENT PHOTOGRAPHY

As one of our valued If you’ve ever heard me speak at an industry event you’ll know that customers and partners, I’m a big fan of ‘nerdy topics’ like data. That’s because data like this can help show us where our businesses sit within the industry, and I’m pleased to be able inspire us to get them to where we actually want them to be. to share the results of The data in this document can give you an insight into the minds of our 2019 Easy the millennial couples who will be getting married in 2019, 2020 and annual Australian beyond. As well as specific data for major industry categories, we’ve also put together detailed insights and trends about what the average wedding survey with Australian couple looks like, what they like about suppliers, and what you. inspires them with the weddings that they are planning. We hope you can use this valuable data to help build your products, services and businesses to understand the Australian couple and help make their wedding the perfect day it should be - not just for the couple, but for everyone.

Matt Butterworth CEO and Founder Easy Weddings

2 WEDDINGS IN 04 AUSTRALIA

THE AVERAGE 06 AUSTRALIAN COUPLE

WEDDING THEMES 08 STYLES AND COLOURS

THE WEDDING BUYING 10 CYCLE

WEDDING CATEGORY 12 INSIGHTS AND TRENDS 36 GENERAL FEEDBACK DESTINATION 37 WEDDINGS

38

ABOUT EASY 40 WEDDINGS

INDUSTRY EDUCATION 42 IN AUSTRALIA

DEREK BOGART PHOTOGRAPHY

Between September and October 2018 we surveyed more than 4,100 couples in our annual wedding survey. They shared with us everything from what theme and style they want for their big day, to how much they expected to spend, what services they booked, and how long they’re going to spend on their . We’ve put the results into Australia’s most in-depth wedding report ever, giving us the largest, most accurate and up-to-date picture of what modern Australian couples and the industry look like today.

3 Weddings in Australia

NT QLD 1% OF ALL WEDDINGS 18% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST AVG WEDDING COST $24,600 $24,759

WA 10% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST $29,024 NSW 33% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST 112,954 $36,082 The number of across Australia in 2017*

SA 7% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST $28,606

ACT VIC 2% OF ALL WEDDINGS 27% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST AVG WEDDING COST $23,339 $33,891 TAS 2% OF ALL WEDDINGS AVG WEDDING COST $28,948

Images: Zena Lythgo / Ferarri Formalwear & Bridal / Taronga Center / Flowers with Love Stonefield / Mad About Cakes / AL-RU Farm / Lala Design

$22,055 is the average original wedding budget 4%

$26,895 is what couples believe their wedding will cost 5%

$32,333 is the average cost of a wedding 3%

*Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 4 On average, 9% of couples will spend more than $60,000 on their wedding day. 14% of couples in NSW will spend more than $60,000, followed by 10% in VIC, 7% in SA, 6% in WA and just 4% in QLD.*

19% of couples choose their wedding date based on the season

14% choose a date that has special meaning to them

11% will marry on the date they can book their preferred wedding venue

March, June, August and November 2019 will experience more weddings as there are five Saturdays in each of these months.

The most popular months to get married in 2019

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

9% 11% 19% 12% 8% 4% 3% 5% 8% 10% 9% 2%

The most popular dates for weddings in 2019

JAN MAR MAR MAR APR APR APR MAY OCT OCT 19 9 16 23 6 13 27 4 12 26

The most popular day of the week to get married

MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN 2% 3% 3% 5% 14% 63% 10%

The most popular wedding season SUMMER AUTUMN WINTER SPRING 22% 37% 13% 28%

*Limited data for TAS, ACT and NT to provide a reliable average

5 The average Australian couple

Average age Average age of a of a groom 28 29

The average couple:

Will invite 97 guests to their wedding - 12% won’t invite plus-ones

HAVE 8 PEOPLE IN THEIR WEDDING PARTY (INCLUDING THEMSELVES) Have been engaged for 22 months

90% are getting married for the first time and will marry in their home state

59% will receive financial assistance from their parents

39% will fund the wedding on their own

85% will have a at their wedding

80% have attended at least 2 weddings over the past year

Images: Make Ones Way Photography 6 89% will live together before getting married Wedding guests say an average of $120 per couple 49% will buy a house before the wedding is considered an appropriate amount to spend on a wedding gift. This 29% will already be parents or will be expecting on their big day increases to $220 per couple for close family or friends.

# A L L F O R L O V E In the first 6 months following the legalisation of same-sex in Australia there were 3,149* same-sex marriages performed and legalised across the country. We predict that more than 5,500 same-sex weddings were performed in Australia by the end of 2018.

*Source: Births, Deaths and Marriages between Dec 9, 2017 and June 30, 2018.

60% of are formed with the ring as a surprise

24% of couples are choosing an ring together

Couples will spend an average 6% of engagements are agreed upon without a ring of $5,147 on the engagement ring

The most popular dates for engagements in 2017/2018

JAN 18 MAR 18

22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 31st 14th February 2nd June

1st January 10th & 31st March

DEC 17 FEB 18 JUN 18

7 Wedding themes + colours

The 10 most popular overall wedding themes

Couples are now choosing elements from more than one theme or style to deck out their weddings. Luxe rustic, classic vintage and garden romantic weddings are all variations on traditional wedding themes. RUSTIC ROMANTIC

GARDEN / CLASSIC / CONTEMPORARY OUTDOORS TRADITIONAL & GLAMOROUS VINTAGE

BOHO CHIC BEACH DIY VINYARD

Romantic, garden/outdoor, vintage, DIY and boho chic styles are all more popular as secondary wedding themes than they are as primary themes.

Images: Black Avenue Productions

Top 5 voted primary Top 5 voted secondary wedding themes wedding themes

››Rustic ››Romantic ››Classic/Traditional ››Garden/Outdoors ››Romantic ››Rustic ››Garden/Outdoors ››Classic/Traditional ››Contemporary & Glamorous ››Vintage

Images: Jave Lee Photography 8 Popular trends to watch out for

GREENERY PERSONALISED SIGNS

CIRCLES HANGING INSTALLATIONS

The most popular wedding colour groups

Like wedding themes, couples are choosing more than one wedding colour for their big day. Two or even three colours paired together can often NEUTRALS BLUES PINKS METALLICS REDS make up a couple’s wedding style, with white, navy, burgundy, blush and dusty rose being the most popular shades of colours across weddings overall.

Most popular primary colours Greenery and NAVY BURGUNDY WHITE metallics are more popular as Most popular supplementary secondary colours colours to the NAVY WHITE GREENERY wedding theme than they are as the main focus. Most popular tertiary colours WHITE GOLD GREENERY

When looking at popular wedding colours, it’s important to note the difference between shades within colour groups. Gold is currently a much more popular metallic than silver, while elements of greenery are used more often in styling than the actual colour green.

The most popular shades of colour in each group

NEUTRALS BLUES REDS PINKS GREENS METALLICS PURPLES ORANGES YELLOWS

WHITE NAVY BURGUNDY BLUSH GREENERY GOLD LAVENDER PEACH DAFFODIL

Supplier Credits: Left Top: Naomi Rose / Right Top: State of Elliott / Left Bottom: Soul Florals Studio (photography by Chantelle Stapleton Photography) / Right Bottom: Florium Creations 9 Wedding buying cycle

START

Wedding Wedding Formal Hair & Flower Venues Wear Makeup Girls

Marriage Wedding Wedding Photo Hens / Bucks Celebrant Music Stylists Booth Party

Wedding Wedding Wedding Wedding Flowers Decorations Jewellery Accommodation

Wedding Catering Bomboniere Lingerie Planner

Wedding Wedding Wedding Wedding Wedding Hire Invitations Services Beauty Services

Wedding Wedding Wedding Wedding Honeymoon Cars Cakes Shoes Accessories

FINISH

10 Wedding category insights & trends

Image: Ferndara Creative 11 facts + figures ››93% of couples will hire a wedding venue. ››The average cost per head for a wedding venue is $157. ››11% of couples will choose their wedding date based on when their venue of choice is available. ››Couples have an average of 97 guests attend their wedding. 80% will invite less than 150 people, while 48% of couples will invite less than 100. WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Wedding Venues

Supplier Credit: Serafino McLaren Vale 12 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

The wedding venue is usually the first service a couple will book in their wedding planning process. The average number of guests attending weddings has remained the same over the last two years, meaning that couples are looking for quality service from their wedding venue to truly create a memorable experience for themselves and their guests. This includes venues focusing on personalisation, customer care and high quality food.

QLD WA $12,504 $13,971 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $15,264 The average cost of wedding venues across Australia NSW 5% $16,539

ACT $12,348 SA $14,821 TAS VIC $10,722 $15,964

What couples believe is the The most popular types of most important part of their day reception venues

Wedding ceremony 46% / 34% Reception venue 36% / Winery 19% The guests we get to celebrate with 9% Historic site 18% / Restaurant/hotel 18% The honeymoon 6% / 5% Golf club 9%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Guests were well looked after while couples had ››Lack of communication between the venue and photos taken other vendors ››The couple was taken through a personal experience ››Lack of availability and communication from the and knew every team member by name venue to the couple ››Any changes made were done without hassle ››Slow wait staff and meals not served on time

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average 13 Wedding Dresses

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

The wedding dress is often one of the first items a bride has visualised before she plans her wedding. While shopping they’re looking for a team that can make them feel comfortable, without feeling self-conscious or like they’re being judged. While fewer are opting to wear a veil, more are choosing to buy a dress than have a friend or family member make it.

NT $2,650 QLD WA $2,179 $2,544

WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $2,649 The average cost of wedding dresses NSW across Australia $2,837 4%

ACT $1,816 SA $2,569 TAS $2,208 VIC $2,806

What brides plan on doing with the dress We asked brides whether cost would matter if after the wedding they found the perfect wedding dress Store and save it 67% / Sell it 21% Yes, it would. I have a budget to stick to! 75% Donate it 8% / 4% No, it wouldn’t. I want that dress! 25%

94% of brides will purchase a wedding dress / 63% will wear a veil with their dress / 4% of brides say they or a family member will be making their wedding dress, while 20% of brides have purchased a pre-loved gown / 5% of brides say the wedding dress is the most important element of their wedding day

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Gave tips on the best options based on weather ››Experienced poor communication after the deposit conditions and time of year had been made ››Alterations could be done in-store ››Lack of attention to detail on the completion of the ››Range of styles to different budgets and body dress types ››Inappropriate comments about body shape

Supplier Credit: Grace Loves Lace 14 Catering

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

Food is becoming increasingly important for couples around Australia as they work to create more of a memorable dining experience for their guests. While DIY couples are the target market for catering services, additional catering options such as food trucks or dessert wagons are becoming increasingly popular across the board.

QLD WA $5,659 $10,809

WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $9,666 The average cost of wedding catering NSW across Australia $8,783 6%

ACT $6,650 SA $6,204 TAS VIC $7,125 $11,947

The most popular styles Couples are designing of catering their meals around Sit down 52% / Buffet 29% Set seating 63% Finger food 15% / Other (ie food trucks) 4% Guests sitting where they choose 37%

Fewer couples are choosing to offer gluten-free food options at their wedding / 42% will have gluten-free options available for guests while 58% will choose against gluten-free food at their reception

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Advice based on experience of food choices and run ››Food was served cold, under or over cooked times ››Agreed food quantities were not provided ››A range of packages for catering, drinks and wait staff ››Ratio of staff to guests attending didn’t work well ››Variety of exciting options for different dietary requirements

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Mint and Mingle 15 facts + figures ››76% of marriages in Australia are performed by a civil celebrant ››38% of couples will hire a female celebrant and 35% will hire a male celebrant, while 27% of couples have no preference ››23% of couples will have a religious or church wedding ceremony WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Marriage Celebrants

Supplier Credit: Russ Macumber Celebrant 16 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

The ceremony is becoming increasingly important to couples, with more couples seeing it as the most important part of their wedding day. Couples are seeking professional marriage celebrants who can deliver a personalised and interesting ceremony to make their wedding day unique. They’re also focusing more on the celebrant, with a drop in the number of couples asking a friend or family member to do a reading during the ceremony.

NT $840

QLD WA $612 $642 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $721 The average cost of marriage celebrants across Australia NSW 1% $774

ACT $602 SA $599 TAS VIC $508 $796

Why couples are choosing What type of ceremonies their celebrant are couples having? We liked their approach to ceremonies 53% / We Outdoor 45% / Religious/church 23% were referred by a friend or relative 21% / Their Beach 14% / Chapel 6% / Other 12% pricing suited our budget 17% / Great reviews 9%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››They had a genuine interest in the couple and ››No assistance in the lead up to the day, such as their story rehearsals ››Walked the couple through the process step by ››Pushy about following tradition step and helped calm nerves ››The couple had to constantly chase the celebrant ››Included personalised references that were for information ahead of the ceremony meaningful to the couple

17 Videography

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

Couples are opting for videographers to make sure that they don’t miss anything important during their day. This has also resulted in couples choosing to hire their videographers for longer. A videographer can capture the feeling and atmosphere of a wedding more than what can be captured with photographs. Couples are looking for natural videographers who make them feel like they’re not being filmed for the whole day.

QLD WA $2,263 $2,267 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $2,702 The average cost of NSW across Australia $3,280 0%

ACT $2,073 SA $2,412 TAS $3,225 VIC $2,598

The amount of time couples will hire a What couples think is the most important to videographer for research before hiring a supplier All day - from start to finish 56% Reviews 55% / Photo gallery 22% For the ceremony and part of the reception 37% Website 14% / Social media 9% Just for the ceremony 7%

49% of couples will have someone video their wedding / 86% of those will opt for a professional videographer while 14% will ask a family member or friend to film their wedding / 51% of couples will not hire a videographer for their wedding

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Easy booking and confirmation process ››Delays in having the final product returned ››Unobtrusive and not distracting on the day ››Important moments such as the or ››Coordinated with the venue to get setup room speeches missed decor and drone shots ››Only focused on the couple and didn’t incorporate family or important elements from the rest of the day

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: On Three Photography and Cinematic 18 Wedding Hire

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

DIY couples are becoming increasingly focused on the style and setup of their wedding day and are using wedding hire companies to help them execute this. However, with outdoor ceremonies becoming more popular couples are also using wedding hire companies for items such as chairs, tables or arbours before heading to a set-up reception elsewhere.

QLD WA $1,751 $1,937 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $1,531 The average cost of wedding hire NSW across Australia $1,410 3%

SA $1,776 VIC $1,348

What couples will hire The number of couples hiring items for their wedding for their wedding Everything! 40% / Decor items 27% We will be hiring items 49% Seating/tables/bars etc 25% / A marquee 8% We won’t be hiring anything 51%

The cost of wedding hire is slightly up this year following a significant drop during 2016 and 2017 / Decor items are the most popular element to hire as more couples focus on the aesthetic of their wedding / Couples are also hiring items such as crockery and cutlery for their big day

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Range of items to suit different themes and styles ››Items arrived or picked up later than agreed upon, ››Good advice on items that work well together causing issues with other suppliers ››Flexible with changes to requirements ››Items not received or arriving damaged ››Items not set up as requested

Limited data for ACT, TAS and NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Vintage Patina 19 facts + figures ››99% of couples will have a photographer at their wedding ››91% will hire a professional while another 8% will have a friend or family member take pictures for them ››53% of couples will also purchase a wedding album from their photographer WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Wedding Photography

Supplier Credit: Xtraordinary Photography 20 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Photography is arguably one of the most important elements of the wedding to a couple as photographers are hired by more couples than any other category. Couples want their photographer to be able to direct them for the best pictures, while also keeping them calm during the day. Not only do they want to get the perfect shots for their big day, but additional images such as drone shots are valued highly!

NT $2,898

QLD WA $2,514 $2,772 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $2,963 The average cost of wedding photography across Australia NSW 0% $3,501

ACT $2,753 SA $2,604 TAS VIC $2,876 $2,914

The most popular styles Are couples having of wedding photography engagement photo shoots? Candid and natural 47% / Traditional and posed 5% Yes 33% Fantasy and highly-edited 3% No 53% A mix of candid and posed 45% We’re considering it 14%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Making posed images feel natural ››The photos took longer than expected to be ››Acting as a calming presence when the couple returned to the couple was stressed on the day ››The photographer needed to be directed on the ››Providing a good mix of classic and unique images day as they were distracted by other elements for the couple ››The photographer didn’t deliver as many images as expected

21 Wedding Music

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.8 / 5

The right wedding music can not only set the mood for intimate moments such as the ceremony and speeches, but it can also keep the celebrations going after the official proceedings are over! Couples love musicians who can work off the vibe of the crowd and offer a personalised service they can showcase to the couple before they book.

QLD WA $1,397 $1,448 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $1,651 The average cost of wedding music NSW across Australia $1,891 5%

ACT $1,787 SA $1,338 TAS $1,260 VIC $1,716

The types of music entertainment The post popular styles couples will hire for their wedding of music at weddings A DJ! 65% Pop 42% / Rock 15% / Classical 15% An awesome band! 35% Indie/folk 14% / Country 14%

93% of couples will hire a band or a DJ for their wedding / 2% of couples will hire entertainers for their weddings, while 2% will hire specific dancers / The most popular wedding song of 2018/19 is Perfect by Ed Sheeran, with more than 8% of all couples playing it as part of their official proceedings!

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

›› Able to adapt the music to the timing of the day or ››Timing for dances and speeches was off night ››Didn’t play requested songs ››Bands knew a variety of songs from different genres ››Agencies assigned a DJ or band a few days prior so ››Couples were able to attend showcases or the service was not personal performances to get a feel for the music

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Paper Hearts 22

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.7 / 5

As with previous years, more grooms are opting for a casual or more relaxed feel for their wedding day than traditional formal wear. However, more grooms are also opting for their own personalised piece, with coloured and patterned suit jackets helping grooms stand out in their own right. We’re also seeing female same-sex couples and mixed bridal parties opting for fitted styled as opposed to traditional dresses.

QLD WA $1,266 $943 $1,449 The average cost of formal wear NSW across Australia $1,588 3%

ACT $1,410 SA $1,564 VIC $1,558

How grooms are purchasing / hiring Do couples trust customer reviews their formal wear more than personal recommendations? We are hiring a suit 23% Yes 23% We’re having a suit custom made 27% We trust both 53% We’ll buy it off the rack 50% No 24%

81% of couples will choose items from an official formal wear provider / More grooms are opting for their own personalised suit and service, with a 27% increase in the number of grooms buying a custom made suit for their wedding day

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Coordinating suit colours with samples of wedding or ››Missed little details, such as cufflinks, which were dresses originally agreed upon ››Able to choose suits based on taste and trends ››Couple received the final product too close to the day ››Can coordinate fittings around different schedules ››Tried to get the groom to change the colour that he had picked

Limited data for TAS and NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Ferarri Formalwear and Bridal 23 facts + figures ››57% of couples will choose the transport for their wedding together ››In heterosexual couples, more brides are now choosing the wedding transport than grooms, with 22% of brides making the decision compared with 21% of grooms WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Wedding Cars

Supplier Credit: Enrik Limousines / Image: Vladimir Photography 24 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Couples are looking for wedding transport that will stand out and help them arrive at their big day in style. They’re also choosing cars specifically for photographic purposes, making cleanliness, timing and attention- to-detail important factors for wedding car providers. More couples are choosing to hire just one car shared between the couple for their day than they did last year, however they’re spending more on this hire.

QLD WA $918 $1,121 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $1,295 The average cost of wedding cars across Australia NSW 12% $1,524

ACT $1,275 SA $1,098 VIC $1,290

The most popular styles of wedding cars The number of cars couples will hire for their day

Vintage 30% / Classic 23% / Limousines 19% 1 car 46% / 2 cars 33% Modern 18% / Hot rod 5% / Sports 5% 3 cars 10% / 4+ cars 11%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Friendly but unobtrusive drivers ››Didn’t know the best direction to the wedding ››Clean and well-presented vehicles venue and got lost on the way ››Flexibility when it comes to pickups and drop offs ››Details such as ribbons were not included on the day as discussed

Limited data for TAS and NT to provide a reliable average 25 Decorations

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Trends and styles will always influence which decorative items are popular in each season, however we are seeing that more couples are choosing to glam up their wedding with decorations based on inspiration from social platforms such as Instagram or Pinterest. Personalised signs and greenery are the most popular trends when it comes to decorations.

QLD WA $1,563 $1,755 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $1,529 The average cost of wedding NSW decorations across Australia $1,456 8%

ACT $1,800 SA $1,440 VIC $1,424

How couples are being influenced on Are couples hiring furniture or their wedding decorations or themes styling props for their weddings? We had a theme in mind 63% Yes 41% Our 2% / Online photo galleries 25% No 59% Advice from our wedding venue 6% Suggestions from friends and family 4%

93% of all couples will have decorations at their wedding / 26% of couples will be making their own decorations to match the style of their day / Live floral features or greenery will be used by more than 60% of couples

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Artificial or fake items such as flowers or foam cake ››No follow up once deposits were paid tiers looked real ››Quality of product didn’t match the quoted price ››Took the time to understand the logistics of the ››Disorganised when it came to drop off and pick up space they were working with ››Used photos of items set up from real weddings as realistic inspiration

Limited data for TAS and NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Take Me Hire 26 Bridesmaid Dresses

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.7 / 5

While the average number of people in a wedding party has decreased, couples are still opting for quality dresses when it comes to their bridesmaids. The number of couples spending $800+ on each dress has increased, while those spending between $200 and $800 has decreased since 2017.

QLD WA $559 $678 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $814 The average cost of bridesmaid NSW dresses across Australia $1,012 0%

ACT $453 SA $911 TAS VIC $930 $833

Who will be acting as How much each maid of honor bridesmaid dress will cost Friend 49% / Sister 36% $0 - $200 65% / $200 - $400 28% Relative 8% / Sister-in-law 7% $400 - $800 4% / $800+ 3%

82% of couples will purchase bridesmaid dresses / Another 6% will have a friend or family member make the bridesmaid dresses / 46% of couples have between 7 and 10 people in their wedding party / Around 9% of wedding parties will feature either a or a groomsmaid

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Able to create something with ideas from photos ››Made to measure dresses didn’t fit ››Dresses adaptable to be worn again for different ››Colours weren’t consistent across all the dresses occasions ››Dresses were made offshore and details were not ››Various sizes available 100% as requested

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: The Gown House 27 facts + figures ››61% of couples will purchase invitations for their wedding day ››36% of couples will make the wedding invitations themselves ››Fewer couples are opting to make their own invites, with a 7% drop since 2017 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Wedding Invitations

Supplier Credit: Lala Design 28 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Mixed metallics, letterpress and foil features in stationery designs are popular with couples at the moment as they work to showcase the standards of professionally printed invitations in contrast with simplistic DIY services. Acrylic and wooden stationery are also very popular, with menus, table settings and table seating all styled and planned with the same themes and trends.

QLD WA $633 $933 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $772 The average cost of wedding invitations across Australia NSW 1% $833

SA $518 VIC $807

How couples are sending out Where did you get your save the date cards wedding invitations? We’re sending physical cards 36% From a professional invitation business 61% We’re sending magnets 15% I made them myself! 36% We’re sending emails 9% We didn’t have paper invitations 3% We’re using social media 9% We won’t send out save the dates 31%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Design across all stationery was consistent ››Couples were charged for changes to the original ››Any changes or mistakes were fixed without draft further issues ››Online orders were poor quality ››Answers were prompt and suppliers were in ››Long delivery times constant communication

Limited data for ACT, TAS and NT to provide a reliable average 29 Wedding Flowers

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Flowers and greenery still remain a central part of wedding styling and decor. More couples are opting for hanging installations to make use of the fifth wall at their wedding, couples are also alternating between artificial and real flowers to get the look they want while popular choices might be out of season. The most popular blooms include roses, peonies, baby’s breath and proteas.

NT $993 QLD WA $1,062 $1,455 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $1,618 The average cost of wedding flowers NSW across Australia $2,047 5%

ACT $813 SA $1,423 TAS $693 VIC $1,652

How much couples are spending Will you be using real or on their flowers artificial flowers? $0 - $500 44% Real 57% $500 - $1000 27% Artificial 20% $1000+ 29% Both 23%

78% of couples will purchase flowers from a wedding supplier for their day / 20% of couples will be organising their flowers themselves / Just 2% of couples won’t have any flowers at all

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Able to provide options for those with allergies ››Flowers were not fresh ››Helped couples if they were unsure what to ask for ››Matching bouquets were different sizes ››Able to provide a variety of products including ››Theming was not consistent with floral decorations bouquets, buttonholes etc. and bouquets

Supplier Credit: Thrive Flowers & Events 30 Photo Booths

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Couples may love candid photography for their wedding photos but they also love having some fun in front of a posed photo booth. While we are seeing fewer couples hiring photo booths, their average spend remains consistent. Popular types of photo booths include traditional booths, mirror booths and live printers for Instagram photos.

QLD WA $869 $788 $896 The average cost of photo booth NSW hire across Australia $1,035 6%

ACT $950 SA $717 TAS VIC $700 $863

How many couples are hiring Are couples hiring photo booths photo booths for their wedding for other events? Will hire 33% Bridal showers/kitchen teas 7% Will DIY 7% Engagement parties 10% Won’t hire 60% Not hiring for other events 83%

40% of all couples will have some form of photo booth at their wedding / There is a 15% decrease in couples hiring photo booths between this year and 2017. However, they are still spending more on hiring these booths / 17% of couples will have a photo booth for another wedding-related event

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Provided a guest book as an inclusion ››Operator agreed to stay but left after setup ››Have a USB or CD with all the images from the booth ››Name misspelt on photostrips and final products ››Kindly encouraged reluctant guests to have fun and ››Poor quality photos have a go

Limited data for NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Little Pixel Box 31 facts + figures ››70% of couples will purchase a for their wedding day ››25% of couples will make their own, while 5% won’t have a cake at all ››55% of couples who have a cake will serve it in dessert style portions, while 45% will serve their cake coffee-sized WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING

Wedding Cakes

Supplier Credit: Sweet Stylin / Image: Shannon Stent Photography 32 CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Couples are choosing a wedding cake that can also act as part of their decorations and aesthetic, which is why cake styling is becoming increasingly important. Bigger is better, and couples want to be able to mix and match their flavours for different tastes. Current cake trends to watch out for include rough icing, moody designs, and even letter cakes in the shape of the couple’s initials.

NT $429

QLD WA $511 $581 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $537 The average cost of wedding cakes across Australia NSW 6% $533

ACT $461 SA $467 TAS VIC $498 $553

The most popular flavour of wedding cake How many tiers will wedding cakes have ?

Mud cake/chocolate or vanilla 69% 1 9% Other (such as lemon) 21% 2 31% Traditional fruit cake 5% 3 48% Flourless/gluten free 5% 4+ 12%

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Variety of flavours to choose from ››Cake tasting was not provided before purchase ››Able to have different flavours for different tiers ››Flavour was not the same as what was agreed ››Worked directly with florist or stylist to upon coordinate cake decorations ››Decoration changes made without consulting the couple

33 Hair & Makeup

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

The 2018 royal wedding has definitely had an impact on hair and makeup trends, with more brides continuing down the more natural path of looking like their best selves for their wedding. Although fewer brides are booking in hair and makeup trials, they are happy when an artist can replicate the look they want from online inspiration and give valuable advice.

NT $550 QLD WA $653 $606 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $740 The average cost of hair & makeup NSW across Australia $861 2%

ACT $479 SA $542 TAS $663 VIC $777

The most popular types Are brides having a hair or makeup trial of accessories before the wedding day?

Jewellery 35% / Hair accessories 32% Yes 77% 19% / Clutch 14% No 23%

85% of brides will hire a professional hair and/or makeup artist for their wedding day / 15% of brides said they or a family member will be doing their hair and/or makeup / There has been an 8% decrease in the number of brides having a hair and/or makeup trial before their wedding day since 2017

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Provided multiple trials ››Didn’t provide a trial ››Able to create the desired look from inspiration ››Didn’t cater for different hair types photos ››Ran out of time to do hair and/or makeup properly ››Able to provide educated advice without disregarding the wishes of the bride

Supplier Credit: Felicia Sarwono Makeup Art 34 Bomboniere

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS 4.9 / 5

Bomboniere is usually one of the last items in the wedding planning chain but is still being used by most couples to thank their guests for attending the wedding. Couples are becoming more ethical and environmentally friendly with their favours, opting for gifts such as succulents or charity donations on behalf of guests.

QLD WA $331 $318 WEDDING CATEGORY INSIGHTS + TRENDS + INSIGHTS CATEGORY WEDDING $464 The average cost of bomboniere NSW across Australia $588 4%

ACT $400 SA $416 VIC $476

How much couples are spending on How couples are sourcing bomboniere per guest their bomboniere

$1 - $5 62% Will purchase 45% / Will make their own 26% $5 - $10 28% Made by a friend or family member 6% $10+ 10% Won’t have any 23%

77% of couples will have some form of bomboniere or wedding favour for their guests / The number of couples spending between $5 and $10 on each favour has increased since last year, while less couples are spending between $1 and $5 on each guest / Despite guest numbers going down the amount spent on bomboniere is increasing

Where couples feel suppliers in this Where couples feel suppliers in this industry excel: industry could improve:

››Items/ingredients sourced locally ››Items took a long time to be delivered ››Items/ingredients environmentally friendly ››Names were spelled incorrectly ››Prompt service with short notice ››Items delivered were not the same quality as samples shown

Limited data for TAS and NT to provide a reliable average / Supplier Credit: Foxtails

35 Honeymoon Destinations

36 2

10 4 7

9 5

6 3

1

8

1 QUEENSLAND 2 EUROPE Fewer couples are travelling 3 FIJI overseas for their honeymoons 4 U S A 5 MALDIVES than in previous years, with 6 BALI Queensland beating out previously 7 HAWAII 8 NEW ZEALAND popular destinations such as Fiji 9 THAILAND and Bali for the top spot. 10 JAPAN

The most popular times for couples How long couples are spending to take their honeymoons on their honeymoons

Within 1 week of the wedding 42% 1 week 29% 2 - 4 weeks after the wedding 8% 1 - 2 weeks 41% 4 - 6 weeks after the wedding 3% 2 - 3 weeks 15% 6+ weeks after the wedding 17% 3 - 4 weeks 4% At the same time as our destination wedding 1% 4+ weeks 11% We won’t take a honeymoon 5% We’re undecided 24%

The average cost of a honeymoon is $7,307

Most couples will still take their honeymoon immediately after the wedding and will be gone for an average of 15 days. However, couples are changing the ways that honeymoons have been taken in the past, with delayed honeymoons, minimoons, buddymoons and even babymoons all becoming new trends with millennial couples.

37 DAN EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY Destination Weddings

The most popular ››While 90% of couples are getting married in their home state or territory, another 10% of couples are opting for a destination overseas wedding wedding. destinations are ››8% of couples are getting married in another Australian state, an increase of 10% between 2017 and 2018. ››Meanwhile, destination weddings outside of Australia are becoming less popular, with just 2% of couples travelling overseas for their wedding. NZ FIJI ››Just 1% of couples will take their honeymoon at the same time as their destination wedding.

BALI USA

MEXICO

38 General feedback for suppliers

The biggest influencers for couples when they are purchasing or hiring any wedding supplier, regardless of category, are:

››The price ››Their personality ››Their location ››Their responsiveness - the ››Reviews from previous ››Their social media - 19% said average response time for an customers - 10% not influenced social media had no influence Australian supplier is 6 hours ››Their website/storefront industry wide

Customer happiness 4.9 Photography 4.8 Destination Weddings for every category: 4.9 Marriage Celebrant 4.8 Wedding Stylists 4.9 Wedding Cars 4.8 Caterers 4.9 Wedding Flowers 4.8 Beauty Services 4.9 Hair and Makeup 4.8 Wedding Planners 4.9 Photo Booths 4.8 Wedding Dresses 4.9 Dress Designers 4.8 Wedding Lingerie 4.9 Wedding Cakes 4.7 Hens Nights and Bucks Parties 4.9 Bomboniere 4.7 Bridesmaid Dresses 4.9 Wedding Invitations 4.7 Wedding Services 4.9 Decorations 4.7 Wedding Accessories 4.8 Wedding Venues 4.7 Dresses 4.8 Wedding Music 4.7 Formal Wear 4.8 Videography 4.6 Wedding Shoes 4.8 Wedding Hire 4.6 Accommodation 4.8 Wedding Jewellery 4.5 Honeymoons

39 DAN EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY About Easy Weddings

80% of Australian We help make wedding planning easy for the majority of Australian couples every year with our range of planning tools as well as couples who are qualified directory, featuring suppliers such as yourself. getting married trust For the past 19 years we’ve worked to make Easy Weddings Easy Weddings to help Australia’s number one website when it comes to both wedding planning and advertising. We’re continually innovating with new with their wedding planning tools and inspiration for our couples, such as our revamped planning process. wishing well feature, $10,000 competition, updates to the my supplier tool and couples dashboard, and our brand new app. Likewise we’ve been working to connect couples with thousands of Aussie wedding suppliers using new technology such as VR tours and our WedCRM. Towards the end of 2018 Easy Weddings underwent a branding change so that we can further reflect what Australian couples want and expect when it comes to planning their weddings, as well as the quality and service our suppliers can expect from Australia’s leading wedding website. We look forward to evolving and innovating with you across the next 12 months.

40 Our mission is to help Australian wedding businesses grow. Whether you’re just starting out, want to book more weddings in a year, or are looking to expand your business to new locations, we want to be able to help.

We have several ranges of listings suitable to businesses of every size, while our range of locations and categories means that we can help find the right fit for your business to make sure you’re seen by as many couples planning their weddings as possible. All of our Easy Weddings partners receive exclusive access to industry education articles, newsletters, webinars, seminars, industry events and our specially designed WedCRM. WedCRM is our wedding-specific customer relationship management program and app that can send enquiry notifications directly to your mobile. Login online or download the app on iPhone or Android. wedcrm.com

Spotlight

To see what more we can do for your business take a look at our exclusive Spotlight listings. Chat to us about how you can ensure you’re one of the top three vendors seen by couples in your region every time they open the page. BLACK AVENUE PRODUCTIONS

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Award Badges Pro-Education We currently have new badges available in WedCRM Get access to our passionate customer service team to embed into your website. These include badges for and tips, strategies and expertise through our our 5 star suppliers, listed clients, and top vendors. Pro-Education Centre. And don’t forget to join our exclusive network of wedding suppliers on Facebook. easyweddings.com.au/pro-education facebook.com/groups/easyweddingsproedu

41

VENUE: FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, SYDNEY

Evolve

GROW INSPIREby SUCCEED Easy Weddings

When: 18-19 June 2019 We’ve been ramping up our industry education here at Easy Where: Four Seasons , Sydney Weddings to help bring as much knowledge and education about Australia’s wedding industry to you. During 2018 we introduced a webinar series and ongoing live video Speakers Include: content to share tips and tricks from marketing to selling your Alan Berg business to Australian couples. We will be working to bring even more valuable educational content to you across this year. Certified Speaking Professional In addition to this, and running our state-focused events across 2019, this year we’ll be running our first ever national event. Easy Tammy Barton Weddings Evolve will be Australia’s largest wedding business growth Founder of MyBudget conference and the first national event specifically focused on growing your wedding business. Amanda Gore We’ve managed to grow some attendees’ businesses by up to 400% Author and by just three hours of learning at our roaming education events Motivational Speaker around the country. Now, with the help of world-class speakers, local experts, and two full days of education we’re excited to teach you how to run a world class wedding business, own your competition and more. Book your tickets at easyweddings.com.au/evolve

42 An all new Easy Weddings app experience is here

››Choose from 5000+ wedding suppliers ›› Browse wedding venues, dresses, cakes, photographer portfolios & more! ›› Contact suppliers for quotes from within the app ›› Add suppliers to your favourites list ›› Read supplier reviews

Download from the App Store

Results driven website design

PACKAGE OPTIONS TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS

››We specialise in designing user experiences that ››We take care of all your on-page SEO – ensuring you transform visitors into leads get the most from your organic search ››We create beautiful online stores and ››We shape positive user experience on mobile and strategically crafted shopping experiences tablet devices

Contact Easy Weddings to discuss your website requirements easyweddings.com.au/webdesign

43 We’re always here to help. To discuss how these exclusive insights could help you grow your business contact us through any of the following. We look forward to chatting with you!

1800 155 122

[email protected]

18 Miles St, Mulgrave VIC 3170

easyweddings.com.au