Here Comes the Bride: Analyzing Bridal Magazine Portrayals of American Brides

Recent studies suggest that the promotion of wedding ceremonies leads couples to feel incomplete without them. This is especially true for an estimated 98% of women who utilize bridal magazines for advice and ideas when planning their big day. A qualitative content analysis of two popular bridal magazines, Brides and Modern Bride, was conducted. A total of eight issues from 2004 to 2007 were analyzed for their portrayals of diversity in terms of race, age, and physical ability. Results from this research indicated that there is a lack of diversity represented in the wedding industry, further reflecting the hegemonic power structure of our society