5 New Technologies to Leverage in the Wedding Planning Industry

Just a few years ago, wedding planning meant juggling binders, spreadsheets and piles of paper. These days, couples expect planning to keep up with all the technology they use in their lives. Wedding planning is more than just staying organized, but a chance to get creative and give couples an amazing experience. Here are five helpful ideas to wow today’s tech-savvy couples.

1. Immersive Venue and Decor Visualization

Virtual reality (VR) technology can revolutionize the planning process, allowing you and your clients to take a virtual walk-through of the venue, explore decor within the space and let couples try on outfits digitally — all without leaving your desk. This makes decision-making easier, especially for busy couples or those hosting a destination wedding. With the global VR wedding planners market expected to reach $4,917.6 million by 2034, it’s clear that more planners are embracing these tools every day.

You can use VR to create 3D models of table settings, lighting and floral arrangements to give your clients a real sense of what to expect on their big day. Many tools are being used to model sustainable layouts, simulate carbon footprints of decor options and streamline vendor logistics.

2. AI-Powered Planning and Personalization

Artificial intelligence (AI) assists with various complex logical tasks, from streamlining timelines to managing guest lists. AI chatbots can handle initial client inquiries, send reminders and answer common questions, freeing you up for more high-touch work. You can also use AI-powered polling tools to create engaging presentations for couples.

Discuss with your clients how their photographers can use AI facial recognition to automatically sort and tag photos after the event. Instead of the couple or guests scrolling through endless galleries, they could quickly find every photo in which they appear.

3. Advanced Client and Project Management Platforms

While customer relationship management (CRM) systems have been around for some time, the latest ones offer more features than ever. Software platforms like HoneyBook and ClickUp combine contracts, invoicing, client communications and timelines in one place. This means you and your clients can work together without missing a beat. 

Choose a platform with collaboration tools, such as shared calendars, task assignment and client portals. Don’t forget financial features like expense tracking and budgeting to help you stay on top of your business. With weddings averaging $28,000 in the U.S., your clients will appreciate knowing where their money goes.

4. Bluetooth-Enabled Trackers for the Couple

Couples deserve to enjoy their big day without the buzz of constant notifications, but that doesn’t mean you must have a hard time finding them while they hang out with guests. Bluetooth-enabled trackers, such as Apple AirTags, can help you keep track of your clients, allowing you to easily locate them if they wander off or you need a quick check-in.

You can also recommend using trackers to your clients during the final planning phases. Suggest they can use it to track items like the wedding dress, rings, luggage for the honeymoon and the box for wedding cards.

5. Betting Apps for Guests

Wedding bets keep guests entertained and encourage them to pay closer attention to all the wedding moments. Using apps like Betting on the Wedding or a simple QR code, attendees can place fun, informal “bets” on different wedding moments. 

Examples include guessing the length of the ceremony, who will be the first person on the dance floor or when the cake will be cut. Suggest this as a fun, no-money-involved activity. The prize can be bragging rights, a small gift from the couple or the right to request a song during the after-party.

Plan Weddings the Smart Way

These latest technologies will transform the way you plan weddings. Think of them as your helpful sidekicks for creating unforgettable celebrations and running a more efficient business. Remember, there’s no pressure to jump on every new trend — just pick those that fit your couples’ personalities and needs.

Cora Gold is a wedding writer and editor for women's lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She has been featured on Brides, Love Inc. and more covering modern wedding trends and professional insights.