Is it reasonable to spend $25,000 to $30,000 on a wedding when the average household earns around $52,000? It’s even riskier to go into debt for such an event, especially with a 50% chance the marriage may not last. Traditionally, in many Asian countries, the bride’s parents cover the wedding costs, reflecting old beliefs about marriage and financial responsibilities. Interestingly, in Western culture, it’s often the groom’s parents who foot the bill, celebrating the addition of a new family member.
While Western weddings usually cost the families, some Asian weddings, like those in Taiwan, can actually profit from the event through generous cash gifts from guests. In contrast, in the US, it’s become more common for couples to pay for their own weddings, striving for independence and a personal touch in their celebrations, even if it means only getting minor help from their parents for things like the venue or flowers.
Modern views on wedding payments suggest a practical approach: spend no more than 10% of your combined gross income on your wedding. This rule helps keep spending in check, ensuring that love and emotion don’t lead to financial imprudence. Additionally, dividing wedding costs proportionally to each partner’s income can prevent financial disputes from the start.
Another critical point is aligning wedding desires with financial abilities. Overspending can lead to significant debt, overshadowing the joy of your big day. Instead, simple, cost-effective wedding options include getting married at City Hall, having a small backyard ceremony, or cutting costs by using friends as photographers.
Ultimately, who pays for the wedding can vary widely. Some believe the bride’s family should, others think the couple should handle it, and some cultures have specific traditions. However, the essential aspect is to avoid starting married life in debt, emphasizing the value of the marriage itself over the extravagance of the wedding.
