Changing Trends in Weddings in India: Goa and Udaipur Among the Most Popular Destinations - Wyndham Research

Lucknow : The landscape of weddings in India is undergoing significant transformations. A recent report by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has highlighted these changing dynamics in the way couples are planning their weddings. Based on a survey of 1,000 individuals who recently got engaged or married, the report reveals that destination weddings in locations like Goa, Udaipur, and Jaipur continue to be highly sought after. At the same time, lesser-known yet scenic places such as Darjeeling, Amritsar, Mussoorie, and Dehradun are fast becoming popular choices for weddings, attracting couples due to their natural beauty and uniqueness.

The report highlights a shift towards creating lasting memories with family and friends. The trend of extravagant, multi-day weddings is making a comeback. Particularly, Generation Z is striving to balance opulence with budgetary constraints while taking a more practical approach to wedding planning. This trend indicates that couples today prioritize unique, personalized ceremonies that respect tradition while embracing modern elements such as sustainability and new technologies.

With a network of nearly 60 hotels and stunning venues across the country, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts offers an ideal venue for every wedding, tailored to its grandeur and budget. With a focus on environmental conservation and technological advancements, Wyndham is keen on understanding and enhancing the changing trends in weddings. It strives to provide couples with all the amenities and services needed to make their special day unforgettable.

Dimitris Manikis, President of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, shared, "Our report shows that couples are now choosing personalized wedding destinations like Goa and Udaipur, seeking unique experiences. The tradition of grand, multi-day weddings is returning, especially among the younger generation, who are environmentally conscious and balancing luxury with technology. At Wyndham, we are committed to helping couples plan and execute memorable weddings that meet their needs."

Return of the Grandeur of Indian Weddings: Couples Ready to Make Their Special Day Unforgettable
Indian weddings are once again embracing their traditional grandeur, with an average of 350-400 guests attending. Medium to large-scale weddings have reignited the desire for big celebrations, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. These weddings are no longer just about tying the knot but are an opportunity to create lifelong memories. Nearly 52% of couples want extraordinary and unique events to make their wedding unforgettable, while 34% view it as a result of societal and family pressures.

Despite the growing trend of larger weddings, there's also an increasing popularity for budget-conscious ceremonies, reflecting the diverse approaches to wedding planning. It’s evident that each couple is organizing their wedding according to their priorities, ensuring that it’s special and meaningful.

Modern Weddings: Balancing Budget and Dreams
Today's couples, particularly the younger generation, dream big about their weddings but are also mindful of their budget. Inspired by social media, about 35% of couples envision showcasing their weddings online. However, weddings with family and friends still take precedence, valuing personal and authentic experiences. Most couples plan to organize their weddings within a budget of INR 25 lakhs. They seek to add a personal touch with decorations and arrangements, often with the help of loved ones. Despite the budget-conscious approach, couples prefer picturesque venues like beaches, rooftops, and hill stations, reflecting their practical mindset combined with their aspirations for a beautiful wedding.

Couples' Preferences: Choosing Local Venues for Family Convenience
While destination weddings still have their appeal, many couples are now choosing local venues for the convenience of their families. The study reveals that only 11% of couples opt for faraway locations, while 40% prefer tying the knot in their hometown or nearby family venues. Local venues not only reduce logistical challenges but also offer better opportunities for family and friends to attend, making the celebration more intimate and familial.

The Rise of Digital Weddings: Technology Changing the Wedding Experience
Technology is playing an increasingly significant role in today's weddings. Digital menus, e-invitations, and drone photography are becoming common features at wedding ceremonies. The study found that 36% of couples used LED screens, 29% sent digital invitations, and 28% captured beautiful moments of their wedding with drones. These technological elements not only add a modern touch but also make the ceremonies more personalized. Live streaming, QR code entries, and AI-generated vows are presenting a unique blend of tradition and modernity in weddings.

The Growing Trend of Zero-Waste Weddings: Eco-Friendly Practices
Environmental conservation has now become a part of weddings. Couples are prioritizing zero-waste weddings, opting for eco-friendly alternatives such as dry flowers, solar lanterns, recycled paper invitations, and eco-friendly gifts. By choosing reusable items for decorations and minimizing single-use plastics, couples are ensuring that their special day is also environmentally conscious.

Millennial couples are also transforming their weddings into a platform for social good. The report reveals that one in ten couples is donating a portion of their wedding funds to charity, contributing to positive societal change. These trends demonstrate that today's weddings are not just about traditional rituals; they are becoming more personalized, sustainable, and socially aware.

Weddings Shaped by Budget: A Personalized Experience
Wedding costs are increasingly being shaped by the couple's budget, with families preparing according to their priorities. Research indicates that 46% of couples plan weddings with a budget of up to INR 10 lakhs, focusing on simple yet meaningful celebrations. Another 30% are opting for more elaborate events, spending between INR 10-25 lakhs. Around 9% have a budget of INR 25-40 lakhs for premium experiences, while 9% plan to spend over INR 45 lakhs for large, luxurious weddings. The trend reflects a growing emphasis on family involvement in planning decorations, meals, and other preparations, making the event more collaborative and personalized.