India Wedding Planning Market Assessment, By Wedding Type [Destination Weddings, Local Weddings], By Budget [Luxury Weddings, Mid-Range Weddings, Budget Weddings], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, FY2018-FY2032F

India wedding planning market was valued at USD 6.42 billion in FY2024, expected to reach USD 16.53 billion in FY2032, with a CAGR of 12.55% for the forecast period between FY2025 and FY2032. India wedding planning is a dynamic and fast developing market as it mirrors the wealth of traditional culture in this nation while indicating an increasing desire for well-planned and well-executed ceremonies. The development in this market can be attributed mainly to rising levels of disposable income, an emerging middle class, along with the desire for individualistic yet extravagant marriages.

The market's key elements include selection of venue, organizing the event, food services, decoration, photography, and amusement. The emergence of social networks has totally been instrumental in defining what consumers want. Consequently, the demand for more exclusive and personalized weddings is on the rise. Apart from that, domestic and non-domestic weddings, in India and internationally, have caused this industry to grow dramatically.

Big event management firms and small boutique agencies, providing niche services that fulfill diverse customer requirements form the landscape of the industry. The Wedding Design Company, owned by Backstage Productions Pvt. Ltd., FNP E Retail Private Limited, and others, have some of the broadest service offerings and high-profile client base.

Even though COVID-19 had its temporary setbacks, it is evident that the sector remains resilient and flexible. Virtual and hybrid weddings, for instance, are some of the innovations that have come up. The sector is likely to grow as people continue looking for more elaborate and specific wedding planning solutions.

In December 2023, Betterhalf.ai, a complete wedding planning company owned by Infinite forest, Inc., expanded its wedding operations nationwide, endorsing destinations for weddings in 100 cities across the country. The company further introduced an AI enabled feature Wedding Ideabook, enabling customers to choose from multiple options for wedding decor, jewelry, makeup, and photography.

Personalized Services Spur Market Growth

In India, wedding planners have made a significant step forward offering personalized services that continue to drive their growth. In contrast with the traditional weddings where everyone is expected to follow some set format for the events, modern couples prefer ceremonies and receptions that are unique to their tastes and stories. As a result, there has been an increase in demand for such customized services which range from decorations tailored according to the couple's specifications, themed events organized exclusively for them and invitations written especially for them besides entertainment arranged to suit individual preferences.

In response to this trend, wedding planners are providing niche services tailored as per varied tastes and preferences of couples and their families. Most common offerings include tailored wedding outfits, private dining options based on the couple's preferred budget, and special decorations that match their desired look. This focus on customization permeates every element of a wedding plan so as to guarantee an unforgettable event for both couples and attendees.

In April 2024, Trinity Entertainment, a well-known event planning company in Mumbai, made its debut as a wedding venture with Eternity by Trinity. This innovative project deviates from standard procedures by emphasizing individualized attention to detail and experiences. The venture provides a full range of services, guaranteeing that every facet of customers' festivities is meticulously organized and carried out. This covers menu design, F&B selections, entertainment and act arrangements, guest-list planning, in-house photography and videography, logistics management, and creative idea and decor planning.

Favorable Government Initiatives Accelerate Market Advancement

The spectacular turnaround in the Indian wedding planning market can be attributed to numerous supportive government initiatives. Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular due to various tourism promotional policies such as Incredible India and state-level incentives. Therefore, wedding events in picturesque places across India have been made easier and more attractive to local and foreign clients seeking exotic experiences. In fact, in August 2023, the Ministry of Tourism launched a special campaign aimed at making India a desired wedding destination on global level. About 25 key destinations have been profiled initially, stating India's fitment as the best wedding destination. Furthermore, in November 2023, while addressing the public through the radio show Mann ki Baat, the Prime Minister called out to the people to start a new movement Wed in India. The Prime Minister clearly stated that he wanted the country's money to remain within the country's possession.

Additionally, the government has promoted digitalization, offering ease of doing business, consequently streamlining operations by wedding planners in terms of registration procedures that are online. This kind of environment has motivated new entrants and established players in market, creating competition among them and resulting in innovation at a significant level.

Destination Weddings Within the Country are Gaining Momentum

India is becoming an increasingly popular destination for weddings as it possesses various beautiful landscapes. From the magnificent forts and palaces of the Indian state of Rajasthan, to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala in south India, beautiful beaches in Goa, and hills full of greenery in Uttarakhand, couples are opting for such locations as their wedding venues. The desire for something different from the traditional methods motivates the trend.

Essentially, the increasing availability of disposable income, together with social media has played a significant role in making destination weddings popular. On social platforms such as Instagram, many large weddings held at exotic locations are shown, which makes several couples consider these places to celebrate their special day. Apart from this, better infrastructure and transportation improvements have enhanced accessibility of such destinations and ease of movement for large groups.

In July 2024, Weddingz.in, owned by Oyo Hotels and Homes Private Limited, strategically collaborated with Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd in over 40 destinations across India. It further declared the opening of its Indian destination wedding planning service. To begin with, the service is available in Goa, Udaipur, Ranthambore, Lonavala, and Jaipur, and will soon be expanded to other popular destinations such as Pushkar, Corbett, Kasauli, Mussoorie, and Shimla.

Future Market Scenario (FY2025 - FY2032F)

The enhancement of the market is going to depend heavily on technological integration. Moreover, features such as virtual reality tours of venues, event planning using augmented reality and artificial intelligence for customization will become more common leading to better planning experiences for both couples and planners.

There will be more cooperation by wedding planners with parallel businesses such as hotels, clothing lines, and travel agencies in the market. This unified method will result in thorough outcomes, improving the general satisfaction of their customers.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

In India wedding planning market, there is a mix of both big and well-known businesses and small planners that are new in the market. Prominent names offer a wide range of services including event organization, decoration, catering, and entertainment for high-profile clients and large-scale weddings.

With continued market growth fueled by rising disposable incomes, increasing demand for personalized services, and the rising popularity of destination weddings, the outlook for these key players is positive. These companies are expected to make use of technological progressions such as AI and virtual reality as the market progresses, so as to improve their services and planning procedures.

In September 2023, FNP E Retail Private Limited (Ferns N Petals) launched Universe of Weddings- Shaadi Central under FNP Weddings umbrella. With a wide selection of services and products covering every facet of a wedding, Shaadi Central is intended to be the one-stop shop for anything wedding-related. The best wedding professionals and suppliers are all gathered under one roof to make sure couples can easily organize their ideal wedding.