AVOIDING THE TARIFF PINCH

sara87580
Jul 7
5 min read

DISCOVER HOW TO NAVIGATE RISING COSTS WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON STYLE.

You’re engaged and planning your dream wedding in the Portland area—an incredibly exciting time filled with inspiration and big ideas. But as you begin the search for the perfect place to say 'I do' here in Oregon, you might also hear some not-so-romantic whispers about tariffs, supply chains, and rising costs.

International tariffs are indeed impacting the price of many beautiful wedding elements. But here’s the secret: this budget challenge is actually an invitation. It’s an opportunity to plan a more intentional, creative, and sustainable celebration that feels authentically PNW.

Let's focus on creativity over compromise. This blog will show you how smart, local choices can lead to the stunning and deeply personal wedding you’ve always envisioned.

THE DRESS DILEMMA: TARIFFS AND YOUR WEDDING ATTIRE

The impact of tariffs on the bridal industry has been widely reported. Outlets like AP News note that with 90% of gowns made overseas, tariffs can be as high as 30%. The result, according to Business Insider, is a price increase of $200 to $600 on a single gown, making a thoughtful approach to attire shopping more important than ever.

THE SOLUTION: THINK LOCAL, SUSTAINABLE, AND CUSTOM

How do you find a gown you love while sidestepping this issue entirely? The answer is a creative and sustainable approach that champions local Portland artisans and the pre-loved market.

TIPS

1. Embrace The Magic Of A Pre-Loved Gown

Choosing a pre-loved gown is not only a savvy financial decision—it's also chic, sustainable, and completely tariff-proof. And for those concerned about quality, rest assured: these boutiques specialize in gowns that are in pristine, like-new condition. Portland is home to some of the best, each with its own story. Two must-visit boutiques are Brides for a Cause, a mission-driven organization where your purchase supports charity, and Blue Sky Bridal, which offers one of the largest and most diverse selections of pre-loved gowns in the area.

2. Go Custom With A Local Designer

For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, consider having your dress made by a local designer. This ensures your gown is uniquely you and supports our city's creative economy while avoiding the tariffs associated with overseas production. Incredible Portland-area artisans like Vouture Designs and Behind the Seams Bridal are experts at working with couples to create a gown that is authentically, completely you.

STYLING YOUR DAY: HOW TARIFFS AFFECT DECOR, RENTALS, & FAVORS

Many of the personalized decor items and favors that complete a tablescape are manufactured in China, making them subject to new import taxes. Citing this rising cost, The Knot reports many couples are now choosing to skip traditional favors, making intentional choices about guest gifts a key part of modern wedding planning.

The financial pressure also extends to larger rentals. The Wall Street Journal notes that taxes on imported materials like wood and glass are increasing costs for rental companies, which in turn impact package pricing for couples.

THE SOLUTION: INTENTIONAL DECOR & LOCAL CHARM

A naturally beautiful venue provides a stunning foundation that requires less decoration to feel special. When it comes to the details you add, a few smart choices can make all the difference.

TIPS

Cami & Isaac's seating chart | Sacred Story Collective

1. Focus Your Flair

Instead of spreading your budget thin, pick one or two standout decor moments that truly resonate with your style. Consider where you want to make the biggest impact. For example, Cami and Isaac created a stunning, personalized seating chart featuring individual thank-you letters for each guest. Or take inspiration from Olivia and David, who crafted an unforgettable photo booth backdrop using repurposed paperback books. These are the details that leave a lasting impression and reflect you.

Olivia & David's Photo Booth Backdrop | The Wendell Stewarts

2. The Art Of The Mix: Fun vs. Forever Decor

Fun, personalized details are incredibly popular! We recommend balancing single-use items (like personalized coasters or drink stirrers) with quality pieces you can cherish. Consider investing in elegant candle holders, a beautiful card box, or custom signage that can be repurposed as art in your home.

For other items, think pre-loved and local. Explore Portland’s vibrant vintage rental companies, like Power of Love Rentals and Lily & Cane, for unique pieces. You can also source decor directly from other stylish PNW couples through Facebook Marketplace or dedicated wedding communities like Wedding Supply Resale.

3. Re-Imagine The Wedding Favor

The most modern approach is to skip traditional favors entirely and reinvest that budget into the guest experience. If you love the idea of a take-home gift, consider making it a reflection of the PNW with local coffee, artisanal chocolate, or Willamette Valley honey.

SMART FLORALS: THE HIDDEN COSTS IN YOUR ARRANGEMENTS

When it comes to your wedding floral budget, the rising costs often aren't about the blooms themselves. The real impact of global supply chain issues is felt on the essential "hard goods" your florist uses. Industry publications, such as Florists’ Review, report that imported floral mechanics—think floral foam, tape, and wire—have seen price hikes of 15% to 25%. This means the overall cost of your arrangements may be higher, even if your chosen flowers aren't directly taxed.

Songbird Floristry | Pretty Geeky Photography

THE SOLUTION: A MODERN APPROACH TO FLORALS

The smartest approach to your wedding flowers is to focus on what matters most: the blooms themselves, not the imported supplies. A few key strategies can help.

TIPS

Songbird Floristry | Lily & Cane Rentals | Here After Photography

1. Embrace "Less is More"

Instead of trying to incorporate florals everywhere, invest your budget in one incredible statement piece, such as a stunning ceremony installation. You can then keep the centerpieces and other details elegant and simple.

2. Go Foam-Free & Local

Choose a Portland florist who practices sustainable, foam-free design. This ensures your budget goes toward beautiful, Oregon-grown blooms. We love the farm-to-vase work of artists like Songbird Floristry.

3. Think Beyond Cut Flowers

Think Beyond Cut Flowers: Incorporate Living Potted Plants into Your Decor. They add a lush, organic feel and can remain in your home long after the celebration—a beautiful, lasting reminder of your special day.