Millennial vs. Gen Z Brides: Can Your Wedding Business Keep Up?

Millennials want perfection. Gen Z wants realness. Can your wedding business appeal to both? Here’s how.

For planners, photographers, florists, and stylists, the task is clear: understand each generation’s priorities and create services that appeal to both without compromise.

What Makes Each Generation Tick

Millennials (28–40)

• Value trust, referrals, and professionalism

• Favor multi-event weddings (rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, day-after brunches)

• Prefer timeless and curated aesthetics

• Likely to hire full-service planners and multi-day photography packages

Gen Z (23–28)

• Crave authenticity, creativity, and inclusivity

• Embrace DIY elements and digital-first planning via TikTok, Pinterest, and apps

• Focus on standout, social-media-friendly moments

• Opt for bold, personalized wedding outfits and unique experiences

• Often spend differently, prioritizing meaningful elements over traditional décor or favors
  

Spending & Planning Differences

• Budgeting: Millennials tend to spend more overall; Gen Z is intentional with where their money goes. Splurges might go to a custom suit, sustainable experiences, or memorable décor, while other elements like paper invites may be skipped.

• Event style: Millennials love multi-day storytelling; Gen Z prefers one highly personalized, Instagram-ready day.

• Vendor preferences: Millennials rely on professional coordination; Gen Z values flexibility, transparency, and creative collaboration.
  

Trends & Style Choices

• Bridal fashion: Gen Z brides ditch tradition, opting for two-piece gowns, vintage-inspired silhouettes, maximalist designs, and unique textures. Meanwhile while Millennials often lean toward romantic neutrals and timeless elegance.

• Grooms’ attire: More personalized, playful, and culturally significant looks for Gen Z; classic black tuxedos for Millennials.

• Décor & experiences: Gen Z embraces bold, Instagram-worthy moments; Millennials appreciate curated experiences that feel timeless.
  

How To Serve Both

1. Flexible Packages
   

   • Offer full-service multi-day packages for Millennials.

   • Include à la carte or customizable options for Gen Z couples who want control over specific details.
     

2. Highlight Personalization & DIY Options
   

   • Gen Z values creative freedom: interactive stations, unique décor, and experiential touches.

   • Millennials may prefer professional guidance. Dliver polished execution without overcomplicating choices.
     

3. Social Media Strategy
   

   • Instagram: polished, aspirational content (Millennials)

   • TikTok: raw, trend-driven, fun content (Gen Z)

   • Use your website or email newsletters to bridge both, showing versatility and expertise.
     

4. Transparent Pricing & Timelines
   

   • Gen Z wants clear, upfront pricing and flexible packages.

   • Millennials expect trust and professional reliability so emphasize structured timelines and full-service assurances.
     
     

5. Leverage Trends Thoughtfully
   

   • Millennials: emphasize timeless design, curated experiences, and professional execution.

   • Gen Z: incorporate social-media-friendly elements, bold fashion choices, and experiential décor.
     

Vendors who adapt to both worlds, balancing polish with personality, structure with flexibility, will thrive. Those who don’t risk alienating both audiences.

For more tips and tricks on how to bridge the generation gap of your clients, visit Wedded Wonderland. If you still haven’t been able to connect to your dream clients, join our complimentary Wedded Concierge service or explore our Wedded Partners Global Listing, and let’s get Wedded!