MODERATE IMPACT

Will my wedding or event cost more because of the Iran war?

Quick answer: Yes. Venue energy costs are up, catering prices are rising with food inflation, flower imports are disrupted, and airfare for guests has jumped. Destination weddings in or transiting the Middle East face cancellations. Budget an extra 10-15% for spring/summer 2026 events.

Last updated: March 13, 2026

What wedding costs are going up?

The Iran war is pushing up costs across every aspect of event planning:

Food and catering

  • Overall food costs up 3.1% annually and accelerating
  • Fresh produce, meat, dairy, and cooking oils all rising
  • Restaurant/catering costs up 3.9% year-over-year (and climbing)
  • Expect 10-15% higher catering quotes for spring/summer events

Flowers and decor

  • Many popular wedding flowers (roses, orchids) are imported
  • Shipping disruptions and fuel surcharges raising floral costs
  • Some florists sourcing locally, which may limit selection

Venue costs

  • Commercial energy bills rising as oil and gas prices surge
  • Many venues passing increased costs to customers
  • Hotels raising rates amid travel disruption

Transportation

  • Guest airfares up significantly (some routes 30-50%)
  • Ground transportation costs rising with gas prices
  • Limo and party bus companies adding fuel surcharges

Are destination weddings being cancelled?

Any events planned in or transiting through the Middle East are at risk:

  • A best man flying from Doha to New Zealand had his flight cancelled and spent several days rerouting due to airspace closures
  • An Australian family’s five-week Europe trip cost $7,000 more due to flight rerouting around the conflict zone
  • Over 4,000 daily flights were cancelled when Gulf airspace closed

(Al-Monitor)

Safe destinations for weddings: Caribbean, Mexico, Mediterranean (western), Northern Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan, Australia/New Zealand.

Tips for couples planning 2026 events

  • Lock in vendor contracts now before prices increase further
  • Choose in-season, local flowers to avoid import price spikes
  • Consider buffet over plated to give caterers flexibility on ingredients
  • Book flights ASAP for guests traveling by air
  • Buy travel insurance — specifically “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage
  • Have a backup plan for destination events
  • Negotiate flexible clauses in vendor contracts for force majeure situations

What about honeymoon plans?

  • Avoid routes through Middle East airspace — flights are being cancelled and rerouted
  • Budget 15-20% more for airfare than pre-war quotes
  • Consider closer destinations to reduce exposure to flight disruptions
  • Cruise honeymoons in the Gulf/Eastern Mediterranean should be postponed
  • Caribbean, Hawaii, and Western Europe remain solid options
wedding costsevent planningcateringhoneymoontravel disruption

Products That Can Help

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Related Questions

Will airfares go up because of the Iran war?

Yes, airfares are rising globally due to higher jet fuel costs and rerouted flights. Longer flight paths mean more fuel, more crew hours, and fewer available seats on popular routes.

Will my groceries get more expensive because of the Iran war?

Likely yes. Rising oil prices increase transportation and packaging costs, which eventually hit food prices. Expect modest increases over the next 2-4 weeks.

Can I still take my summer vacation? Is it safe to fly?

Domestic US travel remains safe. International flights are being rerouted but are operating. Airfares are rising. Avoid the Middle East and some parts of Asia.