National Association of Catering Executives Survey: More Weddings, Bigger Budgets

COLUMBIA, Md., April 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE), an overwhelming majority, 76 percent of the respondents reported that more weddings were taking place in 2011 compared to 2010. Only 24 percent reported that fewer weddings were taking place when compared to last year. This is the second consecutive year of growth in the number of weddings taking place, according to the NACE survey.

In the 2011 survey, almost half – 45 percent – reported increases in wedding budgets. This compares favorably to one year ago, when only 30 percent reported seeing an increase in expenditures per event. And it reflects a growing, upwards trend. In 2009, nearly 90 percent reported seeing a decline in overall wedding spending due to the economy.

"We continue to see positive growth in the area of wedding spending," said Bonnie Fedchock, executive director of the National Association of Catering Executives. "Many had wondered whether weddings were recession-proof and in fact, they were not. We definitely saw a drop in spending when the recession began, but for two years now we are seeing a strong rebound.

Other survey highlights:

• Purple is one of the most popular colors for weddings in 2011
• More people are booking their weddings on shorter notice (six months to one year ahead) than in the past
• Green weddings remain as popular as last year

The 2011 survey was conducted in March 2011, of the entire membership of the National Association of Catering Executives.

The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE), www.nace.net is the oldest and largest professional association dedicated to all aspects of the catering industry. Dedicated to promoting career success for its members and the professionalism of the industry, NACE offers educational programs, professional certification (CPCE), chapter initiatives, networking opportunities, recognition and awards programs, a job bank, community service projects and the industry's most prestigious annual conference. In helping its members enhance their business and careers, NACE helps the industry reach its highest potential.

SOURCE National Association of Catering Executives