Attending special celebrations can often be a costly affair for guests, especially if they have to travel long distances or upgrade their wardrobe. According to a survey conducted by Bankrate, wedding guests are expected to spend an average of $611 per event in 2023, which includes expenses for gifts, clothing, beauty, travel, and accommodations. Close friends’ special days can be even more expensive, considering the additional costs associated with bridal showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and more. Interestingly, the study found that younger guests, who are least financially capable, are the most likely to spend on their friends’ weddings.
In light of this, personal finance expert Michelle Singletary emphasizes the importance of not overspending for the sake of friendship. Singletary highlights that it is responsible, rather than selfish, to decline an invitation due to high costs. Those who choose to RSVP “no” shouldn’t feel guilty either, as making financially prudent decisions should be praised.
Singletary believes that hosting destination weddings is acceptable but advises couples not to expect everyone to attend if they can’t afford it. Instead, she suggests considering the following steps when receiving an invitation: estimating the potential cost, avoiding debt, saving early, not feeling obliged to be a part of the wedding party, and being selective about attending events.
For hosts, Singletary advises them to be mindful of their invitees’ financial circumstances if they want specific friends to attend. She suggests considering a honeymoon destination that might be challenging for guests on tight budgets, relieving them of making a difficult financial decision.
In conclusion, Singletary encourages brides to shift their mindset from “this is my day” to considering who they truly want to share the event with and finding the most affordable way to do so.
Overall, making responsible financial decisions and prioritizing financial well-being should be valued, both for guests and hosts.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
