Ciara Crossan, Founder and CEO at WeddingDates shares her advice on how you can generate more revenue from weddings:
Weddings are big business in 2025! Recent data from WedPro by WeddingDates shows that Irish couples are investing more than ever, with 32% spending €30K or more on their big day. This presents an incredible opportunity for hotels and venues to maximise wedding revenue by enhancing guest experiences, refining packages, and positioning your venue as the top choice for engaged couples.:
How to generate more revenue from Weddings in 2025
Be Transparent with pricing
With 69% of couples reporting that the rising cost of living has impacted their wedding budget, pricing is a hot topic. Budget remains one of the biggest challenges for couples, with many struggling to compare costs and understand packages. The result? Some won’t enquire at all, while others may ghost after initial contact.
There’s a venue for every couple, whether they’re splashing out or watching every penny. However, one thing is certain: hidden costs and pricing surprises are a fast-track way to losing business.
Nearly a fifth of Irish couples told us they won’t even enquire if they can’t see prices on a venue’s website. With so many venues available, they simply move on to the next option. This shift is particularly noticeable among Gen Z couples, who value transparency and authenticity above all else.
Key takeaway: Make pricing clear and easy to understand to increase enquiries and conversions.
Venue elements worth promoting
Your venue is your biggest asset, make sure you’re showing all of its potential. On average, couples dedicate 53% of their wedding budget to the venue, making it the single most significant investment.
Here’s what matters most:
- Hotels remain the top choice: 71% of couples prefer them, and 81% say on-site accommodation is a key factor in their decision.
- Exclusive Use is on the rise: A quarter of nearlyweds mentioned exclusive use as a key factor in their venue choice, particularly favouring private hire locations such as country houses, castles, or boutique restaurants.
- On-site ceremonies are increasing: 48% of couples are saying ‘I do’ at their reception venue, so it is crucial to promote ceremony spaces on social media, listings, and your website.
- Bridal changing rooms are in demand: Nearly half of couples expect them. If you don’t have one, consider investing in a stylish, well-lit space with high hooks for dress photography, full- length mirrors, and ring lights.
- “First Looks” are growing in popularity: 17% of couples now include this in their plans, so identify scenic spots at your venue and incorporate them into your show round.
Key takeaway: Promote these sought-after features in directory listings, wedding brochures, social media posts and website content to boost your venue’s appeal and secure more bookings.
Upgrade the F&B Experience
Irish couples love great food, and the 2025 Wedding Industry Report proves it. They’re no longer just looking for a meal—they want an experience.
Trending options include:
● Gin carts and whiskey trolleys
● Grazing tables and dessert bars
● Cheese and charcuterie displays
● Guinness and oyster stations
With 55% of weddings now including a Day 2 event, offering options like hog roasts or BBQs can be a great revenue driver.
Another emerging trend is rehearsal dinners. Up from 21% last year to 24% this year, this U.S. tradition is gaining traction in Ireland. Offering a private dining package the night before the wedding could be an easy upsell.
And don’t forget about drinks! As couples get married later in life and become more health-conscious, non-alcoholic options are in demand. Partnering with suppliers from non-alcoholic Guinness to premium alcohol-free wines and spirits can open up new revenue streams and impress your couples that you have thought of everything and their guests’ experience.
Key takeaway: Elevate your F&B offerings to create memorable experiences (and more considerable
spend per guest).
Sell the value not just the price
You know what makes your venue unique, but is that message coming across? Couples are browsing hundreds of directory listings, so you need to communicate your value clearly.
Couples are happy to spend but want quality and good value for money. 36% of couples told us they are spending more than €100 per guest for their meals, so positioning your offering effectively is key.
Packages remain the most popular choice for couples, so consider valuable add-ons that position you as transparent and flexible. We also asked couples what incentives would encourage them to book faster:
- Personalised offers (e.g. Aperol Spritz welcome drinks)
- Exclusive discounts (e.g. 10% off for booking at a showcase)
- Family-friendly deals (e.g. discounted guest rooms)
- Custom venue features (e.g. bespoke table settings, signature decor options)
Beyond pricing, exceptional service is what truly sets a venue apart. Couples value venues that offer guidance throughout the planning process, stay ahead of trends, and provide solutions that ease wedding-day stress. By positioning yourself as a trusted advisor, you’ll not only justify premium pricing but also build stronger connections with couples.
Key takeaway: Couples will spend but want to feel they’re getting value. Show them why your venue is worth it.
It is all about creating a memorable experience.
For today’s couples, a wedding isn’t just about the day; it’s about the entire experience.
They’re investing in exceptional food, live music, entertainment, and personal touches to make their wedding unique and memorable. Understanding what excites your couples early in the enquiry or venue tour process allows you to tailor
your pitch and create offerings that resonate with them. This not only drives revenue but also enhances satisfaction and word-of-mouth referrals.
Get your copy of the 2025 Wedding Industry Report
This year marks WeddingDates’ tenth year publishing this report, a significant milestone for their business. Over the years, it has become the definitive guide for wedding venues or businesses seeking to increase market share, understand couples’ perspectives, and refine sales and marketing strategies.
Their newly released report, which spans 36 pages, features quotes from couples and data analysis compared to previous years, revealing emerging trends. Get your copy today to stay ahead of the competition.
