The Growing Extravagance of Weddings
July 5, 2016 11:14 am
Throughout the past decade weddings have become increasingly extravagant, with weddings now setting the average couple back an estimated £20,500. This cost is a combination of various aspects of the day, including the venue, catering, photographer, flowers, cake, suites and dresses.
There are, however, a handful of couples who spare no expense on their wedding day and clock up bills in excess of £50,000. There is also a more lavish class of couples spending an eye watering £1,000,000 plus on their wedding reception and ceremony. All of which, have been inspired by the extravagant weddings of both the royals and celebrities that have been reported in the mainstream media over past years, such as the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the extravagance that this new wave of couples are indulging in. These range from venues to flowers to cakes and to cars. All of which, when combined, make for some truly remarkable weddings to inspire you throughout the planning of your own wedding, whether it’s on a shoestring budget or not.
A Wonderland to Share Your Vows
It is estimated that UK couples spend an estimated £6,709 on the venue of their wedding reception and ceremony. This therefore makes the venue the most expensive element of most weddings, followed closely behind by the ring and dress.
£6,709 has, however, become dwarfed by a handful of extravagant weddings over the past decade. Many of which are held at some of the world’s most luxurious venues. These include the Reethi Rah Resort in the Maldives, a 109-acre island with a perfect sandy beach and 128 private villas.
Another popular destination for engaged couples is Bali, which has become renowned for its welcoming locals and array of cultures. Alila Villa Uluwatu is one wedding venue that provides a glimpse at the beauty of Bali and the tropical romance that so many desire.
These tropical paradises, however, have not taken away from the UK’s popularity amount engaged couples. An array of venues, such as Blenheim Palace and The Ritz, continue to play host to some truly remarkable receptions and ceremonies.
A Cake Isn’t Made for Eating
Cakes have been common sight at weddings since the 18th century. In fact, it is thought that the Romans, who celebrated events extravagantly themselves, were amongst the first to feature cakes at the heart of their weddings.
Unlike the Romans, however, todays cakes are not simply made for eating. Instead, they are used as a status symbol to represent the wealth and style of the couple getting married. This has resulted in cakes featuring as many as seven tiers and them being pieces of art in themselves.
The Arrival Sets the Tone for the Day
In previous centuries, the vehicle in which the bride and groom arrived at the ceremony had little significance. Today, however, it is amongst the most important elements of the wedding with brides and grooms throughout the world looking for any opportunity to standout on the day.
Common choices for couples with a taste for extravagance is a horse and carriage, similar to that ridden in by Prince William and Kate Middleton at their wedding. On the other hand, those who consider themselves petrol heads or are in search for a smoother ride may choose a luxurious car. This may be a classic Rolls Royce, sporty Aston Martin or modern Range Rover.
4×4 Vehicle Hire, who’s vehicles have allowed brides and grooms across the UK arrive at their wedding in style and comfort, have a wide variety of wedding cars available for hire. The most popular choice from their range is the Land Rover Discovery.
How Extravagance Will Your Wedding Be?
Extravagance is of little interests to many couples, who simply want to share their love for each other with friends and family. For those who are determined to have a wedding that no friend or foe could overshadow, however, the indulgence will continue.
The question is – how extravagant will your wedding be? Whether it is one of simple taste or one of luxurious style, the team at 4×4 Vehicle Hire would like to congratulate you and wish you a glorious day.