Are traditional large weddings a thing of the past?

In the wake of the pandemic, couples are showing an increasing preference towards smaller, more intimate celebrations and micro-weddings

Image: Derek Thomson via Unsplash

Despite the recent lifting of restrictions to allow for larger weddings, a study of 2,000 unmarried adults by Greene King Inns has found that 70% of people just want to be surrounded by their nearest and dearest on their special day. 

A staggering 45% of respondents admit that the pandemic has given them the excuse to hold a smaller wedding. As a result, around one in five would now invite an average of 52 guests to their wedding, with 53% even considering a 'micro-wedding', inviting as few people as legally possible.

This shift is even reflected in a couple's choice of venue too, as 27% now claim they would consider holding their wedding in their local pub. 

Liane Hunt, spokesperson for Greene King Inns, said: "The pandemic has caused us to re-evaluate many aspects of our lives, and weddings certainly haven't escaped this. Thousands have had to delay their celebrations until they have been able to fit everyone in again – but over the last 17 months or so, it appears the wedding goalposts have been moving as people consider downsizing from a Covid-safety perspective, but also to keep costs down."

More than 70% of respondents believe a smaller, more intimate wedding is better for spending time with the ones you truly love, and 52% agree that the main positive of a smaller wedding is not having to invite people you barely know – or even dislike.

Have your views changed on the type of wedding you want since the pandemic? Get in touch; email sarah.harris@archant.co.uk