Debenhams reveals that brides are opting for cheaper winter weddings

Debenhams has revealed that even though Prince William and Kate Middleton are opting for a summer wedding, research from high street retailer shows that other couples are watching the pennies and opting for a cheaper winter wedding instead.

Winter weddings are up 28 per cent with the week of Sunday 26th December, which includes Boxing Day and New Year's Eve, now as popular as the first week in July, previously known as the peak wedding week.

The change was noted when the Debenhams wedding list service experienced a record number of couples registering lists in September and October for weddings taking place from November through to February.

Ruth Attridge, Debenhams' spokesperson said: "These days, a white wedding could easily mean the appearance of snow on the big day as much as the bride's dress.

"By marrying in the colder winter months, a couple can save a considerable amount of money without losing any of the romance.

"In addition, unlike the expensive and wedding-heavy summer months, winter wedding guests are likely to be more generous when splashing out on wedding gifts.

"We'd like to pass on our congratulations to Prince William and Kate Middleton and will be watching to see if their upcoming summer nuptials will reverse the trend with couples rushing to mirror their celebrations."

Debenhams research shows that booking a wedding on a Friday or Sunday, rather than the standard Saturday, has also increased in popularity with brides and grooms looking to cut costs.

Jetting off to sunnier climes for a wedding abroad is up 34 per cent, proving popular during the winter months for guaranteed blue skies for the wedding photos.

Ruth Attridge added: "The growing trend of winter weddings is reflected in the items featuring on wedding lists. As well as 15 tog duvets, we're seeing hot water bottles, blankets, casserole dishes and chunky knitwear being snapped up by friends and family.

"Couples have also told us that they are saving even more money by using artificial Christmas trees and Christmas decorations to dress their venues."

Celebrity winter weddings include Katy Perry and Russell Brand, Sophie Dahl and Jamie Cullum, Billie Piper and Laurence Fox, Salma Hayek and Francois-Henri Pinault and Katherine Heigl and Josh Kelley.

About Debenhams:
Debenhams is a leading department stores group with a strong presence in key product categories including women's fashion, wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, men's wear, kid's clothing, home, perfume gifts and health and beauty.

Debenhams is the second largest department store chain in the UK.

Debenhams operates 167 stores in the UK, Republic of Ireland and Denmark, comprising 154 full department stores and 13 Desire by Debenhams stores, which is a small store concept featuring an edited product range. Debenhams also has 60 international franchise stores in 23 countries. Debenhams online store can be found at Debenhams.com, where shoppers can find out all about the latest products to reach Debenhams's via Debenhams TV.

PR Contact:
Ruth Attridge
PR Manager – Menswear, Beauty, International & Retail Services
Debenhams 
33 Wigmore Street
London
W1U 1QX
0207 529 0172
www.debenhams.com

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