'Value for Money' at the Heart of Modern Weddings

Couples tying the knot in Jersey are becoming more cost-conscious, with wedding planners reporting a shift toward smarter spending rather than simply cutting costs.

Government statistics show that 381 marriages took place on the island in 2024 – slightly up from the previous year but still far below the 522 ceremonies recorded a decade ago.

Wedding planner and events consultant Molly Happer said the trend reflected couples wanting their money to go further.“People aren’t necessarily hunting for the cheapest options,” she explained. “They want value. We encourage couples to look at their budget as a whole and decide what matters most – whether that’s the food, the photos, or the venue.”

The figures also show a change in where couples choose to wed. The Office of the Superintendent Registrar reported a 22% increase in Register Office weddings last year, with 135 ceremonies held there compared to 111 the year before.

Event specialist Mike Ward, from The Workshop, said this desire for value was boosting demand for hotels and venues offering all-inclusive wedding packages.

“Marquee weddings can look stunning, but they come with extra costs – the marquee itself, the land, the toilets, everything,” he said. “Hotels are increasingly attractive because so much is included.”

Ward added that some couples were even taking on tasks themselves to keep costs down.“We’ve had people help set tables or scale back on flowers to stay within budget. It’s about being practical without losing the essence of the celebration.”

Despite fewer weddings overall, planners say the market is evolving, with couples focusing less on extravagance and more on meaningful celebrations that deliver the best return for their money.