Walking down the aisle without sinking into debt
When planning a wedding, the hidden costs of extras like food, tablecloths, flowers and quality photography can add up.
If Pinterest pinned price tags on its famous wedding boards, users might suffer sticker shock.
The average wedding costs $26,989, and one-third of nuptials cost more than expected. The cultural appeal of lavish weddings is reflected in centuries-old tradition and new media alike.
Kate Middleton’s $34 million royal ceremony captured the world’s heart while many scorned Kim Kardashian’s 72-day marriage after her $10 million spectacle on reality television. Gossip and bridal magazines alike also contribute to the $70 billion marriage industry with the perception that memorable weddings are pricy.
Although young adults may see marriage albums become increasingly prevalent on their Facebook newsfeed, economic struggles have delayed the trip to the altar for some couples. Many of those who say “I do” at a relatively young age said they prefer a less expensive, more intimate special day.
Sarah Creel, 23, of Jacksonville, N.C., said she went $5,000 over her wedding budget after she only expected $15,000. The low-key celebration became more expensive after the hidden costs of food, tablecloths and flowers, she said.
The traditional wedding was not the high-profile celebration society suggests the event should be, Creel said.
“Some people get caught up in the glitz and glamour, and it’s more about the presentation than the sacredness of the ceremony to them,” Creel said.
Kyle McLarty, a 21-year-old senior at Christian Brothers University, said his future father-in-law’s $8,000 gift toward his beach wedding next year more than covers costs. He said he does not care about the ceremony because he is only concerned about life with his fiancé.
“It’s not important how I get married as long as she’s walking down the aisle,” McLarty said.
Abby Hannifan, a 22-year-old recent Vanderbilt University graduate, said she has not imagined planning a potential marriage. Her wedding would strike a responsible balance between simple and elaborate, she said.
“It’s a very joyful time ... it should be a tangible representation of the couple’s love,” Hannifan said.
Mary Lou Burton, owner of Bravo! Publications and Tradeshows, said she has seen a trend in younger couples getting married with a smaller budget to avoid debt.
“They’re putting the money towards a practical use such as a down payment on a house,” Burton said.
Mary Alice Sublett, event planner and owner of A Delightful Day Event Planning, said it is common for college-aged clients to underestimate the cost of a wedding. Arranging for a facility, catering and quality photography adds up, she said.
With roughly half of marriages ending in divorce, one’s big day may just be an expensive day. Those who prefer to save money can elope for as cheap as $10 to $100.
Matthew Kenwright is a Summer 2012 USA TODAY Collegiate Correspondent. Learn more about him here.
This story originally appeared on the USA TODAY College blog, a news source produced for college students by student journalists. The blog closed in September of 2017.