Following a reported slump in income in 2013 as a result of the ‘unlucky 13’ factor, Scotland’s weddings businesses are forecasting an increase in business for 2014.  With most wedding providers predicting a rise in income of around 15%, well ahead of inflation, the industry will be big business next year for Scotland’s event suppliers.

Leading website, Luxury Wedding Scotland, has surveyed members ahead of its first wedding show in January.  Around half of members reported a decrease in weddings in 2013, citing the unluckiness of the date as the main factor, with the same number predicting an increase in the next year as we enter 2014. This drop has been noticed by all aspects of the wedding industry, as superstitious couples have taken extra care when planning their big day.

Tom Goodfellow, director of Luxury Scottish Weddings comments: “There are so many superstitious traditions surrounding weddings, that it is little wonder that brides have been reluctant to book a wedding in 2013. From not letting the groom see the dress before the big day, to ‘old, new, borrowed and blue’ - even the least superstitious bride may slip a sixpence in her shoe for a little extra luck when entering this new stage in her life.

“Following this unexpected decrease, 2014 looks set to be a bumper year for weddings. Our first ever wedding show at the Balmoral Hotel shows just how popular 2014 weddings are going to be as we have over 30 exhibitors. The forecast increase in income is good news for Scotland’s wedding sector and the luxury end of the business is where the big growth is going to be.”

The average spend on a wedding in 2014 is expected to be between £10,000 to £20,000 with an increasing trend towards fewer guests within an exclusive use venue, as opposed to the traditional marquee.

Members of Luxury Scottish Wedding also reported an increase in luxury weddings within high end venues, as well as a vogue for vintage and rustic themes.  Other popular trends include homemade favours and decorations, as well as hi tech innovations such as photo booths and Pinterest pages.

The Luxury Scottish Wedding Show is on Sunday 19 January from 12 noon to 4 pm at the Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.

ENDS

For more information
Holly Russell / Devan LaBrash
CM Porter Novelli
0131 470 3400
holly.russell@porternovelli.co.uk