Couples brace for pricier weddings
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Getting hitched could soon get even more expensive.
Why it matters: Engaged couples are bracing for price hikes on flowers, dresses, cakes, invitations and more because of President Trump's roller-coaster tariffs.
- Some say they've already stocked up on foreign wine, champagne or decor made overseas.
The big picture: America imports many of its wedding staples.
- Nearly all clothes and shoes sold here arrive from other countries.
- So do roughly 80% of flowers, most chocolate and vanilla and a lot of booze.
Between the lines: Tariffs stand to push up the $33,000 cost of an average U.S. wedding, according to The Knot, a planning and registry website.
- Going over budget on the big day has long been common.
- Alcohol ($2,800), floral arrangements ($2,700) and a dress ($2,100) represent some of the steepest expenses.
What we're hearing: "Potential clients are demonstrating an unprecedented level of cost-awareness," Ahna Han, a New York City florist who works with The Knot, tells Axios.
- She's seeing suppliers of tools, materials and vases charging at least 10% more, with prices for imported flowers fluctuating.
As brides and grooms-to-be commiserate on social media, they urge others to rush certain purchases and book vendors early.
- "Get those bridesmaid dresses ordered," one user posted in a Reddit community for wedding planning.
- Higher costs for event rentals like furniture and table settings may be passed onto consumers, too.
Reality check: Hits to the wedding industry could have been harder before Trump paused his sweeping tariffs, except on China.
- A base tax of 10% remains in place across the world.
What they're saying: Bridal companies previously urged Trump to exclude wedding gowns and other formal attire from tariff increases.
- "Without immediate consideration, Americans will lose their businesses and their jobs — and families across this country will lose access to affordable celebrations of life's most treasured milestones," leaders at several wedding companies wrote in a petition.
Florists are digging into the fine print. "We do have clauses in our contract that we can go up to 10% if we have to, but I've never had to implement that," Ohio flower shop owner Jen Linehan told WTOL 11 News.
- Domestic flower growers in states like California and Pennsylvania "simply cannot meet the high demand, especially during peak wedding seasons," Jennifer Bernal, a New York-based event pro who works with The Knot, tells Axios.
What we're watching: Elopements up, guest lists down.
- Some couples may trim their wedding plans or delay the party altogether as many worry about their jobs and finances.
The bottom line: Love is priceless. Everything else will cost you.
