Our take on the 2026 Wedding Report as Wedding Musicians
- Feb 15
- 4 min read
Every year the wedding world gets a fresh batch of stats, and the latest report from Hitched has given us plenty to chat about.
Now, like any platform report, the data naturally reflects couples who used Hitched to plan their weddings (only couple's who have used Hitched would have been asked to complete the survey) — so bare in mind that, of course, the data is skewed in favour of the platform. But beyond that, there are some genuinely interesting trends that line up with what we’re seeing on the ground with our own couples.
Here’s what stood out to us — and what it might mean if you’re planning a 2026 wedding.
Dating Apps Are the #1 Way Couples Meet
We are officially in the age of the modern meet-cute, and it was interesting to see that the apps are the number one method of our lovebirds finding each other. So if you're single and in swiping, consider this your reminder that the modern love story often starts with a swipe and you could be booking your dream day any day now!
The Average Planning Time Is 15 Months
This is a great benchmark if you’re newly engaged.
A little over a year gives you breathing room to:
Secure your favourite suppliers
Spread costs
Enjoy the process - be fully in your bridal era!
And from our side, it’s the sweet spot for crafting the perfect music plan without feeling rushed.
Parents Play a Big Role
Most couples involve their parents in the planning in some way — whether that’s decision-making, logistics, or emotional (or, let's be honest, financial) support. While parents' roles are clearly important in the wedding, we're here to tell you to make sure it's still your big day, and that it truly reflects what you and your partner want!
Guest Experience Is the Top Priority
This was one of our favourite takeaways.
Couples said their biggest focus is making sure guests feel looked after and have an amazing time — which is exactly where great entertainment makes such a difference.
When the dance floor is full, and the energy is high, the guests will be thanking you for their invite for years to come!
Wedding Fayres Are Still Going Strong
36% of couples attend wedding fayres
We love this because meeting suppliers in person makes such a difference — you get a feel for personalities, style, and whether it all clicks.
✨ We’ve got some upcoming fayres and would love to see you there!
22ND FEBRUARY 2026 - MARGAM ORANGERY FROM 11AM
8TH MARCH 2026 - THE PAVILLION, HAVERFORDWEST FROM 11AM
29TH MARCH 2026 - THE VILLAGE HOTEL CARDIFF FROM 11AM
26TH APRIL 2026 - TOWERS HOTEL SWANSEA FROM 11AM
17TH MAY 2026 - COURT COLMAN BRIDGEND FROM 11AM
21ST JUNE 2026 - MARGAM ORANGERY FROM 11AM
All in association with Promise Wedding Fayres
First Dances Are Definitely Not Going Anywhere
86% of couples have a first dance
Whether it's for tradition or those gorgeous twirly photos, we're obsessed with the first dance, and love being part of creating a bespoke, live version of your favourite song for it!
Top tip - having a live band play your song means that we can adapt the song length depending on your dance, or just keep the important parts and shorten the song so that you're not dancing in front of everyone you know for 4 minutes straight!
Live Wedding Music Is a Big Priority
42% of couples book live music or a band
This mirrors what we see every season — couples want that real, shared energy you just can’t replicate with a playlist.
And interestingly…
👉 Only 6% of couples chose a cheaper supplier to save money
That tells you something important: couples aren’t looking for a budget version of their vision. They want the right fit, the right vibe, and the confidence that it’ll deliver.
Let’s Talk Budgets
Average UK wedding cost: £21,990
44% went over budget
The main reason? Many couples didn’t know typical costs when setting their original budget. This is such a common occurrence, and why our price brochure (that you get sent as soon as you enquire) includes the full list of all of our prices, nothing hidden and nothing to be added last minute! We're up front so that you know what you're paying!
What This Means for 2026 Couples
If these trends continue (and we think they will), 2026 weddings will likely be:
✨ Guest-focused and experience-led
✨ Carefully planned but relaxed in feel
✨ Full of personal touches
✨ Big on atmosphere and energy
And from what we’re already seeing in our diary — the parties are going to be incredible.
Final Thoughts
Reports like this are always interesting, but the biggest takeaway for us is simple:
Weddings aren’t about ticking boxes — they’re about creating a day that feels completely yours, surrounded by the people you love, with moments you’ll remember forever.
If you’re planning a 2026 wedding and starting to think about the music, we’d love to hear what you’re imagining.
