It’s common to dream of a grand wedding that leaves a lasting impression on everyone. However, these dreams often come with a high cost, which can lead to regret if the budget isn’t carefully planned.
One couple learned this the hard way after spending $60,000 on their wedding. To their dismay, they received only a fraction of that amount in gifts—roughly a twentieth of the expenses. This forced them to cancel their honeymoon, leaving them feeling “devastated.”
The couple has now turned to the internet, asking for advice on how to move forward from their disappointment.
Extravagant weddings often come with financial risks. Weddings are often seen as status symbols, leading couples to overspend to impress others or meet societal expectations. In the U.S., wedding costs vary by location, with New York City topping the list with an average expense of $49,866, followed by San Francisco and Boston.
Interestingly, research has shown that lavish weddings may increase the risk of divorce. Historian Stephanie Coontz explains that this trend dates back to the 19th century, when weddings were used to showcase wealth and social power.
Today, weddings remain a way for some to show status. As wedding writer Elise Taylor points out, many couples feel pressure to create their “dream day,” even if it comes at a financial cost.
The couple in this story invited 270 guests, which significantly increased their expenses. Wedding planner Emily Coyne suggests that having a smaller guest list is one of the easiest ways to cut costs. Smaller ceremonies not only save money but also create a more personal experience.
Coyne also notes that many couples expect certain gifts, which can lead to overspending when those expectations aren’t met. “Planning for the full scope of costs ahead of time can prevent financial strain,” she advises.
For this couple, the only option now is to treat the experience as a lesson. They can plan their honeymoon later, but first, they’ll need to focus on paying off their debts.
While many online commenters criticized the couple’s choices, some blamed the guests for not being more generous with their gifts.
