Egads, have you seen that tv show, "My Sweet Sixteen"? We're talking hundreds of thousands for some clueless rich kid's birthday party.
I was just telling my teens our wedding cost less than $500, including my gown and Mr. M's suit, shoes, rice, preacher, cake, flowers, invitations, and renting a beautiful Victorian B&B. Thankfully, the kids agreed weddings now days are too far out there and one said she's always wanted to get married outside - pretty and free.
I saw part of one because I was trying to figure out what in the world it was. I wonder if the families on that show have any idea how many people are laughing at their inanity, frivolity, and self-centeredness. If I acted like that on national television I think I'd have to kill myself out of embarassment.
30 years ago my wedding was at a church- we had 6 bridesmaids and 6 ushers (that's what we called them in the OLD days!)..a lovely reception with lots of "finger food"..crab..lobster..shrimp etc..champagne flowing..a wonderful band. The entire "event" including my dress...lots of flowers, bouquets..AND wedding trip (6 days in New England including hotels, meals etc)...cost around $3,000. I thought it was extravagent!
My son and DIL have attended many weddings of friends, and have been in a few as well. They watched the madness and said NOT US! They decided to have a tiny wedding- she bought a pretty dress- nothing exhorbitant, my son has his Army dress blues- so no need to get a tuxedo. We (both sets of parents and some grandparents) drove up to St Augustine (Florida) and had a wedding. We went out for a very good dinner and that was that! We had a blast and so did they- it was perfect. They also now have thousands of dollars in the bank, saved by not spending it on a wedding.