A Decline in Vegas Weddings: Venues Adapt to Attract Couples

Michael Okonkwo, Middle East Correspondent
2 Min Read
⏱️ 2 min read

In a surprising turn of events, the wedding capital of the world, Las Vegas, saw an 8% decline in weddings last year, leaving venues scrambling to find new ways to entice couples. Known for its glitz, glamour, and a long history of celebrity nuptials, the city has traditionally been a popular destination for those looking to tie the knot.

According to Clark County Clerk Lynn Marie Goya, the county hosted over 70,000 weddings in 2025, a significant drop from the previous year’s figure of more than 76,000. This decline of over 6,000 weddings represents a notable shift in the city’s wedding industry.

To combat this trend, wedding venues in Las Vegas have had to get creative in their approach. Donnie Kerestick from Chapel of the Flowers revealed that one of their chapels has undergone a major transformation, adding 16,000 flowers, crystal chandeliers, and other Instagram-worthy features to appeal to the modern couple.

The Chapel of the Flowers has even gone as far as offering a wedding giveaway, where 87 couples can win a free wedding or vow renewal. However, there’s a catch – the chapel has stipulated that pop superstar Taylor Swift and her fiancé, Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce, must tie the knot in Las Vegas for the giveaway to happen. Unfortunately, it seems the couple has other plans, with reports suggesting they will be heading to coastal Rhode Island for their nuptials.

Despite the decline in weddings, the industry still generates a staggering $3.3 billion annually for the city, according to official figures. This underscores the enduring appeal of Las Vegas as a wedding destination, even as venues work to adapt to the changing preferences of modern couples.

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Michael Okonkwo is an experienced Middle East correspondent who has reported from across the region for 14 years, covering conflicts, peace processes, and political upheavals. Born in Lagos and educated at Columbia Journalism School, he has reported from Syria, Iraq, Egypt, and the Gulf states. His work has earned multiple foreign correspondent awards.
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