Marriage Budgets: From Thrift to Lavish Celebrations

The cost of getting married can vary greatly depending on the era, culture, and the couple's preferences. From the humble beginnings to the extravagant celebrations today, the expenses associated with marriage can span a wide range. Let's explore the cost of weddings from different perspectives.

Simple Marriages in the Past

The description of a 1960s marriage provides a fascinating glimpse into the minimally budgeted weddings of the past. In the mid-1960s, a simple gold ring could set a couple back as low as $10 to $15. The entire marriage process, including the license, was conducted for a mere dollar or two, leading to total expenses of around $30. This simplicity reflects the value placed on personal connection and love rather than material possessions or outward displays of wealth.

A Personal Touch: A Simple Chapel Wedding

For another perspective, the author of a 1982 wedding shares her story. Despite the growing economic situation in 1982, her wedding remained a simple affair. She wore a dress she already owned, an heirloom ring, and the cake was a homemade creation courtesy of her mother's friend. The wedding and reception were held in her parents' house, keeping costs minimal. The wedding cost approximately $1,000 to $2,000, showcasing how budget-friendly weddings can be if you are willing to go simple and personal.

Modern Luxury Weddings: A Unique and Elegant Celebration

Contrast these early rustic weddings with modern luxury weddings. One example is a 2019 wedding in India, which reflects a contemporary trend towards unique and elegant celebrations. The couple chose an antique hall called Ganjam Mantapa in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, for their two-day wedding. This reflects a growing trend of choosing locations that have character and charm, rather than more impersonal venues.

The elaboration of the event details adds a layer of luxury and grandeur. For instance, the cost of the hall was Rs 300,000, while decoration and photography each cost Rs 80,000 and Rs 80,000 respectively. The remaining Rs 100,000 was spent on clothing and miscellaneous expenses for the couple and their attendants. The total expenses, summing up to around Rs 6-7 lakhs ($7,000 to $8,000 USD), did not include a honeymoon, which highlights the couple's priorities and lifestyle preferences.

The author emphasizes the importance of selecting only real relatives and close friends, prioritizing quality over quantity. This approach to wedding planning is a testament to the current trend towards intimate, meaningful events. The decision to have only 250 people in attendance, with a significant portion being relatives from Hyderabad and close family from Bengaluru, underscores the growing popularity of precisely planned weddings that reflect personal values and relationships.

These stories starkly highlight the diversity of wedding budgets and preferences, ranging from the thriftiness of the past to the opulence of modern times. Regardless of the cost, the underlying theme is the desire to celebrate a love story in a way that makes both the bride and groom feel special and remembered.