If you want to keep the romance going long after the wedding bells are done ringing, skip the ultra-expensive affair and go for a low-key wedding instead — even if your checkbook can afford more.
Believe it or not, the whole “wedding industry” is actually a fairly recent invention. Just like the popularity of diamond engagement rings, the things that people now take for granted at weddings (signature drinks, gifts for the guests) are all the result of marketing.
Not so long ago, it was perfectly acceptable for a couple to put on their best clothes and get married at the courthouse before heading off to a honeymoon together. Others got married in the comfort of their parent’s living room. A small cake and punch reception was a nice addition.
One thing is for certain: The rising cost of today’s weddings seems to be directly reflective of the disenchantment of today’s couples afterward. The more you spend, the more likely you are to get divorced. Consider these facts:
- Did the engagement ring cost more than $2,000? If it did, you’re now 1.3 times more likely to divorce than a couple who spent less.
- Did the wedding tab top $20,000? That’s easy to do — some couple’s catering bills alone cost that much. However, you’re now 1.6 times more likely to divorce than someone who kept the costs under $10,000.
- If you really want to reduce your chances of divorce, keep the wedding tab to $1,000 and take a honeymoon instead. Couples that take a honeymoon increase their chances of staying married by 41 percent.
Basically, it comes down to this: The wedding industry has led people to associate a big, lavish wedding with a “happily ever after” ending, but there’s no evidence that’s true — and plenty of evidence that suggests it may be the other way around. It’s possible that couples get so caught up in preparing the big wedding that they ignore fundamental flaws in the relationship — or the lavish wedding makes them feel “let down” once real life starts.
No matter what the reason, if you know that it’s time to seek a divorce, you’ll need an attorney. It’s particularly important if you have significant assets to protect — so you can protect them as much as possible. For more information on how our firm can help you, please visit our page.
