We've known that there was a huge pent up market of couples yet to start their wedding planning, and with many more couples getting engaged over Christmas we've seen a huge leap in couples looking for wedding venues online from Boxing Day onwards.
Wedding Venue Search
Based on the week from 26th December 2020 to 2nd January 2021, the number of couples searching online for wedding venues are up by 23.51% compared to the same week in 2019-20. Through the whole month of December 2020, couples have been spending more time looking through our venue listings, in fact nearly 10% more time on each listing than in December 2019.
Enquiry Increase
Most importantly, all this activity has led to a big increase in enquiries for those venues that have kept a focus on their future by protecting their online position. For the month of December 2020, paid listings on Guides for Brides received 10% more enquiries than they did in December 2019.
The increased time being spent researching online and additional reliance on photos, videos and reviews, along with challenges in visiting venues, means that couples will shortlist less venues this year so each enquiry is far more likely to lead to a BOOKING.
We've helped as many venues as possible to retain their online position during challenging times.
If your listing has lapsed, or you don't already list with us please get in touch so we can help.
Not only will it generate additional enquiries for you - guaranteed - but it helps to support us in supporting you and your couples. And we really appreciate your support!
Suppliers
For suppliers usually booked after the venue has been confirmed, we're expecting the usual leap in enquiries from mid January and with couples spending so much more time online, now is the time to make sure that your listing has the best possible photos and wording, as well as up to date reviews.
Suppliers using the Calendar Feature get more business
More than ever, couples are searching for venues and certain suppliers* available on a specific date. The spikes in traffic show this is particularly relevant when a wedding date is being postponed. Over the course of the year, this type of search saw a 473.54% increase compared to 2019. Importantly, this is also the way that NEW couples are searching; the use of our late availability calendar increased by 423.53% in the final week of December compared to 2019.
*The calendar feature is available to business categories where date availability is limited
Let's look forward to the 2021 we've all been hoping for. There may be a few challenging months still ahead but the light at the end of the tunnel is in sight. Let's get there together.