The event industry finds itself at yet another crossroads in 2025. What’s really happening? At Eventective, we’ve been in the world of events for over 20 years – and we’ve seen it all. Keep reading to find out more about current event trends and how we recommend event professionals like you stay ahead of the curve.
Where We Stand
The event industry has shown resilience over the past five years. After COVID-19 shook everything up, the industry has settled into a “new normal” that blends traditional in-person and virtual experiences together. According to Allied Market Research, the global event market hit $736.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $2.5 trillion by 2035.
On Eventective, we saw post-COVID traffic reach a peak in July 2021 at 1.7 million visitors. Since then, we’ve noticed overall traffic and event requests re-normalize. Now, less people are planning events, which means venues are competing more. Plus, economic indicators, inflation concerns, and budget constraints are affecting businesses and people planning events. Let’s take a closer look at how each event type (weddings, parties, and meetings/corporate events) will be impacted.
Weddings
Weddings continue to be a significant part of the event industry. In 2024, the average wedding spend in the United States was around $33,000 and this year it’s tracking up to $36,000. On Eventective, we’ve seen the average wedding size decrease by 20 guests since its peak in 2016, showing a gradual decline post-COVID:
Interestingly, Google Trends shows upticks in “micro wedding” and “budget wedding” searches. The “interest over time” section (pictured below) shows a score from 0-100 based on search popularity. Check out the search jump in January, which is typically the most active time of year for wedding planning:
And related search terms show that people want to find venues that accommodate smaller weddings:
What does this mean? Couples are choosing quality over quantity. They may be working with tighter budgets, but they’re surely not skimping on unique experiences.
2025 wedding trends include:
- More elopements or courthouse wedding ceremonies, followed by smaller, intimate celebrations at lower key venues like restaurants, wineries, and breweries – or even backyards or Airbnb’s/VRBO’s. Micro weddings are in!
- Forgoing traditions (like cake cutting and formal family photos) and incorporating new ones such as unconventional table layouts, private vows, and family/friend officiants.
- Focusing on memorable experiences like wedding weekends, “unplugged” ceremonies, food service, and live entertainment.
Parties
Although weddings are often big revenue drivers for venues, hosting regular parties can also contribute to steady revenue growth.
This year, Eventective has seen steady party requests with baby showers, graduations, teen parties, and bridal showers being among the top parties planned. We always anticipate holiday events increasing as we near the end of the year – typically more than 80% from September to November.
What does this mean? The desire for gathering and connection remains strong in 2025. However, planners are more budget-conscious with their party spending.
2025 party trends include:
- Micro-gatherings with memorable details – especially when it comes to food and guest experiences.
- Wellness as a major focus with outdoor events, non-alcoholic drink options, quiet spaces, and fitness activities incorporated into events.
- Nostalgia themed events that pay homage to past decades – hello roaring 20s, retro 50s, disco 70s!
Meetings & Corporate Events
Corporate events make up 35% of the global event market (and 10% of the events planned on Eventective). Although these events may make up a smaller portion of the overall event market, they can still bring in substantial revenue for your venue, especially those end-of-year company parties. The virtual component of corporate events is here to stay, with many large-scale corporate events now in a hybrid format.
What does this mean? With 77% of marketers believing events are the most effective marketing channel for their organizations, corporate events are here to stay – though they’re likely to be smaller, budget-focused, and mission-driven.
2025 corporate event trends include:
- Sustainability initiatives and social impact are at the forefront, with many companies and attendees wanting to be more eco-conscious and charity-driven.
- Innovative learning and engaging experiences. Think: escape rooms, scavenger hunts, and other creative team-building activities.
- Integrating AI and VR technology.
Where We’re Going
Regardless of event market predictions, we don’t have a crystal ball – so, adaptability remains your greatest asset. In an uncertain climate, businesses that thrive will pivot when needed and streamline operations, all while maintaining value for clients.
While the event industry in 2025 faces its share of challenges, it also presents opportunities.
Here are 4 tips to help your venue this year and beyond:
- Remain transparent with your pricing and stay flexible with package options.
- Invest strategically in technology that offers marketing, prospecting, negotiating, and booking tools all in one system to avoid paying for multiple software programs. (Hint: Eventective’s got you covered).
- Focus on marketing unique offerings for all types of events to keep your calendar full.
- Respond to inquiries as quickly as possible and never underestimate a quick text or a phone call.
By staying nimble and embracing the right technology, your event business will remain competitive and profitable in the midst of a constantly changing industry.
Curious to see how Eventective can support your business in 2025? Learn more about us here or get in touch with us directly – we’d love to connect!
