PhotoDude.com

Sat. Oct 26, 2002

Small is a Relative Thing

Small is a Relative Thing – "Opulent weddings are nothing new for the well-to-do. But in recent years, more people of modest means have been springing for ever more lavish ceremonies. Nationwide, the average wedding cost has risen to $22,360, according to Conde Nast Bridal Group, a division of Conde Nast Publications Inc. That’s a 47% increase since 1990."

"Two trends of the last decade helped boost wedding extravaganzas. One, the booming economy, made extras such as limousines and designer gowns—once out of reach for the masses—more affordable. And secondly, the median age for getting married has risen, meaning couples increasingly have the means to kick in their own money if parents can’t foot the bill for expensive options."

"Since 1982, the average age of a bride has climbed to 27 from 20, according to Conde Nast Bridal Group. And the length of engagement has doubled to 16 months, which means more time to spend more money and plan more elaborate weddings."

One wedding co-ordinator "said she recently orchestrated a medieval-style wedding at Benedict Castle in Riverside, a structure fashioned after a castle in Spain. The groomsmen dressed like musketeers and wore swords."

Or perhaps you’d prefer your groomsmen to be Mouseketeers: "Disneyland began offering after-hours ceremonies in the theme park in May 2001. The bride and her father can be ferried through the park in ”Cinderella’s Crystal Coach,” led by a white horse and a footman. And after vows are exchanged, they can celebrate at a reception in Fantasyland in front of King Arthur Carrousel. Prices start at about $40,000 for packages that include the ceremony and reception."

"Many modern weddings require so much upfront investment that some companies now insure them. WedSafe Inc. of Beverly Hills will guarantee weddings against all kinds of mishaps, including broken gifts, damaged gowns and members of the ceremony falling ill."

"Some people even take out second mortgages on their home—something consultant Lindsey Smeets said she advises against. ’What if the wedding lasts five years, and the parents are paying on the wedding 15 years?’ she said."