Weddings are increasingly becoming grand festivals of ostentatiousness but rising costs are forcing many couples to reconsider their priorities. According to wedding industry reports, the average cost of a wedding in the USA touches $35,000 which is a sizeable sum for any young couple to spare, especially considering outstanding student loans or other financial commitments. This is prompting more pairs to opt for intimate court weddings over lavish receptions and instead splurge on dream honeymoons that create lasting memories.
Oscar Avilez Marquina and Luis Lopez from New York are one such couple. After a simple courthouse ceremony in February 2022 with just two friends as witnesses, they spent $2000 on a two week European trip visiting Nice, Paris and Amsterdam taking advantage of low airfares instead of a big fat wedding. “Going to Paris has always been a dream for both of us. I’m happy the first trip together was as husband and husband”, shared Avilez Marquina.
Haley Black from North Carolina too felt big blowout bashes were unnecessary pressure and chose an intimate Greek island wedding in Santorini for $9000 with friends, significantly less than the $25,000 lowest venue quote back home. Plus it doubled as an ideal honeymoon. “We didn’t want debt over a single day. The memories of traveling as newlyweds will last forever”, expressed Black.
Even adapting traditions for pragmatism, Muna Yowell’s simple Dallas courthouse ceremony with loved ones cost just $100, allowing a splurge $5000 Hawaii holiday dubbed the real celebration.
While scaled down weddings mean missed family moments, planners see growing acceptance as priorities shift from lavish shows to meaningful experiences together. As Hernandez of Greatest Adventure Weddings quotes, “People favor investment in experiences than dinner for crowds.” Starting married life on a high note abroad rather than debt at home, seems a logical choice for many joyous couples today.
