Tariffs may drive up local wedding costs as couples plan for 2026

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Couples planning to tie the knot in the new year may also need to prepare for higher wedding costs.

Industry experts say tariffs are contributing to price instability across the wedding industry, from dresses to catering, making early planning more important than ever.

In 2025, the average cost of a wedding in Indiana was about $24,000. As the industry heads into 2026, vendors say prices could continue to fluctuate as tariffs affect imported goods and services.

That uncertainty was top of mind for many brides-to-be attending the 41st annual Bridal Spectacular at the Century Center in downtown South Bend — Michiana’s largest and longest-running bridal show.

“The biggest like trend we have right now are early shoppers,” said Lexie Hostetler, assistant manager and social media manager at Simply Yours Bridal.

Hostetler works at the Granger-based bridal shop, which has been in business for 14 years. She said the store saw a noticeable increase in prices throughout 2025, largely due to where many wedding dresses are manufactured. She recommends shopping for dresses as soon as possible.

“There aren't a lot of bridal designers that their dresses are produced here in America, unfortunately are coming from overseas, to where tariffs hit, it hit the industry so hard,” Hostetler said. “We were having to charge hundreds of dollars to tariffs.”

Wedding gowns aren’t the only major expense couples are being urged to prioritize early.

“I recommend getting the big things up first. Your venue, your caterer...” said Julia Schwantes, an event specialist with Nelson’s Event.

Catering services are also feeling the effects of tariffs, particularly when it comes to fluctuating food costs.

“What we're really seeing it this year is really on our beef. So, we're struggling a lot with beef prices,” Schwantes said. “We have to kind of tell you, okay we'll give you the final price like three months prior because it's been so varied.”

Vendors say bridal shows like the one in South Bend help couples get ahead of rising costs by encouraging them to plan sooner rather than later.

“It's never too early to start,” said Jim Allarcon with J and D Productions.

Even wedding elements that may seem straightforward — such as live entertainment — could see pricing changes as the industry adjusts.

“I can't speak to other vendors, but like, we've been able to hold the line, we'll see how long that goes,” Allarcon said.

Despite the financial pressures, vendors say it’s important for couples to remember the purpose of the day. While planning ahead is key, they encourage couples to enjoy the process and not let rising prices overshadow the celebration.