The weddings and honeymoon market has evolved drastically over the last 80 years, yet there are many aspects that remain the same.
A wedding, which is really the “formality” of the union of a couple, was practiced by all, including the ancient Romans. In the early years (and I am sure it is still practiced in some cultures), this was more about establishing contracts between families either for economic or political gain, rather than about love.
And where there is an event/gathering that brings families together, you will always find an entrepreneur ready to create revenue streams! Hence, the introduction of the wedding ring as a symbol of betrothal. Later, the American jewelry industry started promoting the double-ring ceremony as a way to increase sales.
Wedding Planning
It stands to reason that where the opportunity exists to create a niche market and increase revenue to one’s bottom line, entrepreneurs will flourish. A wedding, an extension of everyday life, and bringing together families as it does, is no exception. Hence, the introduction of bridal publications!
Brides magazine, founded in 1934, was the first on the scene, followed by Modern Bride in 1949 and Bridal Guide much later. 
Honeymoons
There is much debate on the origins of the honeymoon, but one thing everyone agrees on is that it was a time set aside for the couple to get to know each other. The length of honeymoons ranged from a week to a month but today the norm is an eight- to 10-day getaway.
The honeymoon became a post-wedding fixture in the 1930s, and Niagara Falls, with its cascading waterfalls and activities, was popular among married couples. The destination retained the reputation of being the Honeymoon Capital of the World for years.
The title was taken over by the Poconos in the beginning of the 20th century. It was the hangout of major celebrities, and just as any other celebrity hangout, the crowd soon followed them there. Soldiers returning from or going to World War II, too, made it their romantic stop.
Marketing was the key to getting the “romance” of the Poconos into the minds of engaged couples—hence the introduction of the first heart-shaped tub, round bed, mirrored ceilings, champagne-glass Jacuzzi. The Poconos had it all, including a comprehensive package with sports, dining, massages and everything else to enhance the romantic experience.
The Poconos’ dominance in the honeymoon market was such that all the magazines devoted a special feature in every issue they published.
Market Changes
It would only be a matter of time before the rest of the world started perfecting the “Poconos experience” and throwing in the lure of distant travel to exotic and faraway lands—the crystal- clear blue water, warm weather, hospitable locals and competitive pricing.
Sandals Resorts quickly became the leader in the promotion of honeymoons and weddings outside of the country, with firm hold on the Caribbean.
Destination Weddings
Destination weddings became a trend in the late 1990s as more and more couples sought unique ways to get married. They got bored with the traditional, elaborate extravaganzas, and what better way to trim down the guest list (thereby getting rid of family members who are prone to cause you embarrassment on this important day)?