Last Updated on February 23, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
Weddings are one of the most anticipated milestones in life, and for many couples, they symbolize much more than just a single day.
They’re a reflection of love, commitment, and the journey a couple has taken together.
As the costs of weddings continue to rise, couples are faced with tough financial decisions, often stretching their budgets beyond the initial plan.
But is going over budget worth it?
According to newlyweds, the answer is a resounding yes.
In 2024, the average wedding cost was projected at $33,000.
This year, we followed up with 1,500 newlyweds and discovered that 74% went over their original budget.
Of those, 37% exceeded their budget by less than $5,000, while 20% spent over $10,000 more than planned.
Despite this, 95% of couples said the extra expense was completely worth it.
Weddings are a significant, intentional investment.
A majority of couples contribute to their wedding costs, with 29% covering the entire expense themselves and 58% contributing partially.
Many couples save for years before getting engaged, making strategic financial decisions along the way.
In fact, 43% have already combined finances, and 24% have purchased a home before walking down the aisle.
To fund their dream wedding, couples often take proactive measures.
About 20% take on side gigs or optimize credit card rewards to cover the costs.
These sacrifices reflect their dedication to creating a day that feels truly meaningful.
From splurging on the perfect engagement jewelry to selecting the best venue to ensuring the food, flowers, and photography are flawless, couples focus on crafting a celebration that represents their unique love story.
One reason couples find their expenses worthwhile is the growing trend of personalizing their weddings.
From custom invitations to tailored menus and unique decor elements, personalization adds meaning and individuality to the big day.
These personal touches, though sometimes costly, create unforgettable memories that couples cherish for a lifetime.
Beyond the physical elements of the wedding, there’s an emotional payoff to splurging on certain aspects.
Couples often prioritize experiences that will enhance their day, such as live music, interactive food stations, or a dream honeymoon.
These emotional investments contribute to the overall joy and satisfaction of their celebration, making the extra expenses feel justified.
Going over budget isn’t just about spending more—it’s about prioritizing the elements that make the day unforgettable.
For most couples, the memories and experiences shared with loved ones justify every dollar spent.
Their wedding becomes not just an event but a heartfelt celebration of their journey together, proving that sometimes, exceeding the budget is worth it.
