Weddings have traditionally been associated with grand celebrations, elaborate décor and larger-than-life experiences. However, changing preferences are prompting couples to rethink how they allocate their wedding budgets. Rather than trying to outdo other celebrations, many are focusing on what genuinely adds value to their special day, from thoughtful hospitality and personalised details to memorable food experiences.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Nikita Dubey, wedding planner and Founder of Shubhtithi Weddings, shares how couples are becoming more intentional with their wedding budgets, cutting back on extravagant elements and prioritising personalised experiences for their guests. (Also read: Step inside badminton star PV Sindhu’s Bengaluru home featuring beautifully framed wedding photos, Mahabharata artwork and elegant interiors ) “Instead of hosting the welcome event at the hotel where everyone is staying, couples are moving it to a local venue. It gives guests a taste of the local culture, food and character of the destination, while also helping save significantly on five-star venue and catering costs,” Nikita notes. As destination weddings bring together families travelling from different cities, childcare services are becoming a thoughtful hospitality consideration. “This is a small line item with a big impact. Guests travelling with babies and young children can finally relax and enjoy the celebration, knowing their little ones are looked after. It is a simple gesture, but it can make the overall experience much more comfortable for families,” she explains. Food experiences that reflect the couple’s personal preferences are another area where spending can feel worthwhile. “Couples who love food, or simply can’t start their day without a good coffee, are bringing in speciality stalls and renowned coffee brands. Ultimately, creating a memorable wedding is less about increasing the budget and more about allocating it thoughtfully. “When we plan with a couple, we start by understanding what matters most to them and their families, then put the budget there. Everything else is planned smartly around it.
These choices reflect who they are, and guests often talk about them long after the wedding,” Nikita says. A memorable wedding doesn’t come from spending more; it comes from spending right,” Nikita says.
