Cash is king for penniless newlyweds who now mostly want money as a wedding gift, a new survey has revealed.
The Irish study, by The Wedding And Honeymoon Show, shows the bride and groom would prefer cold cash to coffee machines from their guests as they tie the knot.
The research explored wedding trends across the country and highlighted that newlyweds want away from the traditional gift list, with a huge 87% preferring pocket dough to actual breadmakers.
The survey of 218 people also revealed the power that social media now plays in the lead-up to a wedding day, with 42% of brides admitting to including something on their special day as a result of seeing it online.
There was also a significant rise recorded in people now considering sustainability and the environment when planning their wedding, with 43% agreeing that they took 'eco credentials' into consideration when booking a supplier and opting for DIY or reused decorations, favours and flowers.
Although many traditions remain, the survey revealed an emerging trend for savvy brides who are wanting more for less by getting married on a weekday. While a Saturday wedding is still proving popular (40%), saying ‘I do’ on a Thursday is on the rise (14%), as is a Friday wedding at 33%.
Choosing who stands by your side on your wedding day is also a key component of the experience and now some couples (7%) are inviting animals to be part of their wedding party.
Sara Kennedy from the Irish Wedding Blog and host of the ‘I Do’ School, an interactive and innovative highlight at the Wedding and Honeymoon Show, said: "Weddings in 2019 are showcasing more personality and attention to detail than ever before.
"Couples are rethinking conventional traditions and putting their own creative spins on long-standing wedding moments, like bringing their pet along to celebrate, or asking for cash instead of a gift.
"These trends are only set to increase, as couples become more financially independent and are rising to the challenge exercising their ability to be creative, motivated by things like local sourcing, ethical production and a great authentic experience."
The findings from the survey come ahead of the Wedding and Honeymoon Show, which will open its doors at 10am this Saturday and runs until Sunday at 5pm.
Taking place at the RDS in Dublin, the show will be home to more than 150 wedding suppliers all gathered under one roof.
Tickets cost €15 and can be purchased at the door.
For more information visit www.wed.ie or check out @WEDDublin on social.
