The TRUTH about Tariffs and the Impact on Your Wedding

I recently chatted to WCNC news regarding how tariffs are affecting weddings. You can see that story in my last blog post. Now I want to really explain my thoughts on the subject. However, do not be alarmed, this really is not the end of the world...or your budget.

Prices are going to rise, but that is all a part of a new year. It is similar to inflation. To me, I think of it as inflation with a little extra. No need to worry though, we have ways to combat the added costs.

Flowers

Most flowers come from out of the country when you are working with a florist or ordering bulk flowers online to DIY. The rise in cost will affect real and artificial flowers. Most natural flowers are coming from our southern countries, Mexico, Cuba, Columbia, etc. Whereas our artificial flowers are coming from China and India. Artificial flowers have become amazing quality recently and you almost cannot tell a difference between them and real.

So what can you do to save money? Support local! That seems to be the thing we preach more than anything no matter the subject on hand, but truly in this situation, local is your best bet. Work with local flower farms for sourcing your flowers. This works exceptionally best when you reach out a year or more in advance to discuss your flower needs so they can plant accordingly. If you don't have that much time, do not be discouraged, still reach out to them and see what they would have available during your wedding month and see if it works with your design.

Another solution is to look into alternative flowers. You may have a flower that you just cannot go without, but maybe there is a flower that is similar or that can be modified to look similar. Talk to an experience florist to find out about alternative options.

Dresses

I have unfortunately heard stories about dresses not coming in and getting stuck in another country until the high tariff can be paid by the bride. This is unfortunate and I am sure not what anyone wants. The biggest solution here is to buy off the rack. Most bridal shops will have a selection of different dresses in all the sizes so you can pick out your dress and get sized appropriately. Then they will order the dress from the designer and it will get shipped in. The only way to really avoid this is to buy off the rack. Buying off the rack guarantees that your dress will not get stuck in another country with a bounty on its head.

Decorations

I feel like we have entered the world of over consumption when it comes to wedding decorations. Everyone is buying the standard signs and vases from Hobby Lobby or Amazon and then trying to resell on Facebook. A way to save you money is to look elsewhere prior to shopping online.

Shop second hand. Go to thrift store for your vases as they always have plenty and you never know what else you will find while there. You also may consider joining a Bridal Yard Sale Facebook Group in your geographical area to see what past brides are trying to get rid of. Don't be afraid to bargain, most brides are trying to empty out their spare bedrooms quick.

Also consider using vendors with decor items available for use. For my couples, I offer a wide range of wedding decor items that are available to them. There are also several rental companies out there with great deals. Don't be afraid to shop around for pricing.

There are so many other wedding categories that may see a shift in pricing due to tariffs, but the best part is, a lot of your vendors are service based and their prices won't increase due to the overseas drama. At Destination Us, I am here to make your life easier and your wedding planning stress free, that includes finding you the best deal for your stress free wedding budget.