The sweeping tariffs of 2025 are reshaping weddings at their core. For an industry built on beauty, celebration and precision planning, the ripple effects of recent U.S. tariffs have introduced a new and unwelcome guest into the wedding world: unpredictability.
Over the past several months, new import tariffs—some as high as 145%—have begun to impact a wide range of wedding-related goods, from bridal gowns and florals to specialty foods, décor and equipment. For wedding planners, hotels and vendors already navigating a complex post-pandemic landscape, these additional costs are forcing tough decisions and creative workarounds to protect both clients’ budgets and their own margins.
Dresses, Delays and Sticker Shock
Perhaps nowhere is the impact more immediate and tangible than in the bridal gown market. According to the American Bridal and Prom Industry Association, roughly 90% of wedding dresses sold in the U.S. are imported, with China representing the lion’s share of manufacturing. The new tariffs on Chinese-made goods have led to cost hikes of up to 30% for some bridal shops, who now face the decision of absorbing the increase—or passing it on.
Christine Greenberg, co-owner of Urban Set Bride in Richmond, Va., put it plainly in a recent interview with The Knot: “We don’t really manufacture things like lace, beading and corsetry in the U.S. The infrastructure just doesn’t exist.” As a result, boutiques like hers are seeing some gowns jump to nearly $3,000 from $1,800 in a matter of months.
Wedding planners are feeling the pressure, too.
“All gowns are made overseas and if they are not, the fabric is sourced from China along with the veils,” said JoAnn Gregoli of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli. Gregoli and other business owners shared further insight in a recent segment on Good Morning America.
The Floral Fallout
Fresh florals are another core element of most weddings, and another casualty of the current trade environment. The wedding industry relies significantly on imports to satisfy demand, particularly for certain varieties like roses, orchids, carnations and tulips.
These blooms are typically grown in countries with optimal climates and lower production costs, such as Colombia and Ecuador, which has historically kept prices down—until tariffs began to shift the equation.
Florists report increases ranging from 10% to 25% on premium blooms, with some opting to reduce variety or substitute local flora.
“Couples still crave that ‘wow’ moment,” said Stacie Hawkins of Stacie + Co., “but we’re now creating it with more intentional choices—opting for fewer imported blooms and leaning into locally grown flowers when we can.” She added that while the look may be different, it’s also an opportunity to support local farms and showcase seasonal beauty in new ways.”
Gregoli said the current climate has encouraged a shift toward more sustainable and seasonally inspired designs. “There’s a growing awareness around sourcing and sustainability,” she explained. “Clients are more open to creative alternatives when they understand the global pressures at play.”
Cake, Cocktails and Culinary Costs
Beyond gowns and florals, the culinary aspect of weddings has also seen shifts. Specialty imported ingredients—think fine chocolate, vanilla beans, cheeses and even Champagne—are now subject to added tariffs. Armana Christianson, owner and cake artist at A. Cakes Bakery in Phoenix, reported a 20% increase in the cost of couverture chocolate alone, turning a five-tier cake from an indulgence into a budgeting challenge.
Wines and spirits are also affected. European vintages, especially French Champagne, are seeing price spikes due to both tariffs and limited shipping availability. Caterers are pivoting to domestic wines, American sparkling options and more localized menus.
Rentals and the Supply Chain Squeeze
While guests may not notice the behind-the-scenes equipment that powers a wedding—the lighting rigs, tent frames, speakers and linens—their costs have not gone untouched. Steel and aluminum tariffs, combined with ongoing shipping delays and labor shortages, have led to rental companies raising prices by 10–15% on average.
The result? Planners and hotels are advising clients to secure vendors and finalize event logistics even earlier than before, as price fluctuations have made last-minute flexibility a thing of the past.
What the Industry is Doing
Across the board, wedding professionals are responding to the tariffs with a combination of strategy, transparency and adaptability. Many planners have updated their contracts to include tariff clauses, allowing for some flexibility should rates shift between booking and execution. Others, like Gregoli, are educating clients early in the process.
“We have not adjusted our pricing, but we inform couples that certain vendors will impose surcharges,” she said.
“Planning ahead is the best way to avoid the worst effects of new tariffs”, added Chicago-based luxury wedding and event planner Frank Andonoplas. He also recommends partnering with seasoned professionals who know how to navigate this evolving landscape. These experts can help source vendors with transparent, fair pricing, clarify whether tariffs are factored in, and manage expectations from the outset.
Couples are encouraged to make decisions early, get pricing confirmed in writing, and leave room in their budgets for unexpected shifts. Exploring options like sample sales, pre-loved pieces or DIY elements can help offset rising costs while working with local artisans and suppliers not only reduces reliance on imports—it also supports small businesses within the community.
The Bottom Line
While the word “tariff” doesn’t exactly evoke romance, it’s now an unavoidable part of the wedding lexicon. For an industry driven by detail, timing and cost management, the most successful professionals will be those who embrace flexibility, stay informed and prioritize communication with both clients and vendors.
As Gregoli succinctly put it, “tariffs will permanently raise the price floor for many imported wedding products, especially décor and rentals made overseas, paper goods (invitations, menus, etc.) and imported floral varieties (especially out-of-season or exotic.
“This means planners must budget differently, and clients may need to shift expectations on what’s achievable within their price range.”
In an interview with The Knot, New York-based wedding florist Ahna Han advised couples in the planning stages to be proactive and well-informed when making decisions.
"Don't hesitate to ask tough questions about how tariffs might affect your budget—the answers will help you determine if a vendor is the right fit," she said. "A trustworthy vendor will be open and transparent about their approach to managing cost implications.”
While tariffs present undeniable hurdles, they also offer an opportunity for the industry to innovate, find creative solutions and ultimately deliver unforgettable celebrations despite the obstacles. Challenges like these push vendors, planners and couples to think outside the box, adapt quickly and find fresh ways to bring their visions to life. Despite rising costs and supply disruptions, the wedding industry is a resilient one—continually evolving and overcoming obstacles to ensure that unforgettable celebrations always find a way to shine through.
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