OK brides-to-be.. did you know that almost one third of brides-to-be surveyed this year are prepared to spend up to AED 100,000? To be honest this was what I calculated after working out a budget for my own wedding, despite only having 68 people attending. with 48 per cent of participants prepared to allocate up to AED 10,000 for their gown, whilst 27 per cent of participants are willing to spend a little extra to feel like a princess on their big day with a wedding dress budget of AED 10,000-20,000.
Every bride has her priorities, and will figure out what they are willing to spend on, and what they’re not. For example the brides with no budget (when I say no budget, I really mean rich) are willing to pay a staggering AED 500,000 or more for their dress. This seems rather silly if you ask me. However at a more realistic price, 48 per cent of brides are prepared to spend up to AED 10,000 and 27 per cent are willing to spend a little between AED 10,000 to 20,000. Imagine what you could get for that…? Vera Wang? Delphine Manivet? Ahhh, a girl can dream.
The BRIDE survey also revealed that brides-to-be would love a little help and 40% of brides plan to hire a wedding planner. 58% are looking for help managing the day it’s self and just under 10% would like help with choosing a wedding dress and organising catering.
This is rather exciting, because I know there are so many brides who love planning their own wedding, and really do only need an extra pair of hands on the day. I do know a few wedding planners who offer an on the day service, but if you’re a bride who loves details and DIY then I’m my new styling service might just be right for you.
By the way, 900 brides took art in this survey… that’s a lot of brides!
The survey also revealed that when it comes to style, women in the UAE still favour the classic Kate Middleton inspired wedding dress which received over 37 per cent of participants votes, who clearly prefer the princess bride style of intricate lace, elegance and beautifully crafted detail. I love this, why? I’m so pleased that more brides are going for lace, and lots of detail. It makes a change from the classic strapless dress with the sweetheart neckline. Yes, it’s elegant, and slimming around the shoulders, and can be striking, but lace for me is so understated and elegant. However, It also looks like my own personal style is in the minority, with only 4 per cent of the brides voting for the boho style wedding dress showcased by the likes of Kate Moss. And 27 per cent choosing tradtional designs over celebrity fashion fads.
“Each year I look forward to seeing the results of our annual BRIDE survey as wedding trends always fascinate us and the results provide us with a great opportunity to ensure we meet the interest of brides-to-be and their families during our show, and we pride ourselves on understanding the UAE bridal market like no other,” said Daphne Cota, Show Director.
So, ladies get your tickets now at www.thebrideshow.com and head down to the Trade Centre on the 10th – 13th April 2013. You’ll be in for a treat with over 350 exhibitors taking part. It’s the biggest and best bridal exhibition in the region! ♥
Less than one month to go… wahooo! Back tomorrow my lovelies! Enjoy the rest of your weekend… x
*Kate moss image from Oncewed.com
