Couples considering tying the knot this year are being advised to do their homework on the costs.
Sarah Kennedy is a founder of irishweddingblog.ie.
She told Lunchtime Live an increase in demand for the coming year - or two - will see prices rise.
She explained that going into the next two years, prices are set to increase "given the scales demand that we're approaching".
And she said along with other changes, mid-week weddings could become more the norm.
"I've seen for years that couples and guests that arrive mid-week, there's not a big issue.
"The guests are in flying form, there doesn't appear to be any begrudgery - and I've gone to many mid-week ones myself".
"But there is a saving for the couple, and for so many to actually then start thinking about 'Do we go to 2023 for the sake of the Saturday?'
"Does it really matter that much? - Pull it forward, do it when you can and just enjoy the terms that you can get married under.
"You can't put your life on hold for the sake of one day, either".
A couple with wedding rings in 2006. Picture by: © Brian Summers/Design Pics via ZUMA WireShe said one item, above all else, is dictating people's timetable: the venue.
"The big thing with couples getting engaged at the moment... was that the big thing was actually getting their head around the current playing field.
"For many who have been planning, or had booked a wedding, and have had to postpone [it] they've kind of got adjusted to how to plan in this sort of environment.
"But for new couples, this is very daunting and where do you start?
"I always say you have to start with the date - and the big component with the date is really around ceremony, availability and of course the venue.
"The venue is the biggest chunk - and the difficulty couples are having at the moment is obviously they can't get out to view the venue."
She said a lot of places are offering virtual tours and consultations instead.
"I think that's the big thing at the moment is really for couples to start using this time to investigate, shop around and understand pricing".
She said prices can "knock couples for six".
On average, 60% of couples go over-budget on their big day - which is generally down to "not really understanding how much things cost", Sarah said.
But she suggested that now is the time to get a handle on your budget.
"They have an opportunity now to really lay down those prices and compare them logically.
"What you find is when people go to book weddings, they get caught up in the emotion and the excitement of it - that they may overlook those different pieces around hidden costs".
COVID insurance
In terms of signing contracts and wedding insurance, she said people should double-check it covers any COVID-related issues.
"The one thing I would say about the contract is you have to ask for flexibility with your vendors when you go to book.
"So be very clear, and get it written down, and even embed it into the contract that 'if we are still under a restricted environment what does this mean?'
"It's very important that you get that, and ask those questions and don't be afraid to ask".
"You are well within your right to ask for clarity and flexibility in respect to COVID-19 in your wedding contracts".
