Weddings: A Celebration Of Love, Possible Anytime, Anywhere

Weddings are a monumental milestone for many people, but pulling off the perfect celebration can be challenging and expensive. The average cost of a wedding in the US in 2023 was $35,000, with costs driven by factors such as venue, live entertainment, and photography. Planning the big day can be stressful, and there are often unexpected challenges, such as cold feet or family drama. Despite the costs and challenges, weddings remain a popular tradition, with many couples going to great lengths to create their dream celebration.

Runaway grooms

A story of a runaway groom that went viral on TikTok involved a Texas man named Grant Gunderson, who left his fiancée, Rachel Siegel, at the altar on their wedding day. The couple had been together for nine years and had even visited the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas for their joint bachelor-bachelorette party. However, on the morning of October 5, Gunderson got cold feet and called off the wedding. Despite this, Siegel went ahead with the reception at the Blythefield Country Club in Belmont, Michigan, and posted a TikTok video of her first dance with her mother. The video, which did not identify the runaway groom, has been viewed over 41 million times.

In the video, Siegel, wearing her wedding gown and a jewel-encrusted cape, addresses the camera: "My name is Rachel Siegel and my fiancé just left me at the altar." In the months leading up to the wedding, Siegel had shared photos of their proposal, wedding shower, and bachelorette party on social media, with no indication of any trouble in their relationship. However, a friend of the groom insisted that Gunderson didn't "leave her at the altar," arguing that he had tried to call off the wedding before the couple arrived at the venue.

Gunderson, a small-time actor from Texas, has stayed silent about his reasons for jilting Siegel and declined to comment when approached by the media. His friend suggested that he realized marriage was a big commitment he wasn't ready to make. In the aftermath of the incident, Siegel posted TikTok videos oscillating between hope and positivity and intense sadness at having to start over. She also shared her feelings of emptiness and loss after taking off her engagement ring, which was an heirloom diamond passed down from a grandparent.

The cost of weddings

Planning a wedding can be a costly affair, with the average US wedding costing $35,000 in 2023, up from $30,000 in 2022. This amount can vary significantly depending on location, with weddings in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago being among the most expensive, while states with smaller populations, such as Idaho, West Virginia, and Wyoming, offer more affordable options.

The reception venue and catering are typically the two largest expenses, accounting for over 40% of the average wedding budget. The cost of a wedding venue can vary greatly depending on location, with venues in popular cities or during peak wedding season tending to be more expensive. Catering costs can also add up quickly, especially if you need to hire a separate rental company for tables, chairs, linens, and other event rentals.

Other significant expenses include photography/videography, entertainment such as a DJ or band, flowers and decorations, attire, and a wedding planner. Couples also need to budget for smaller expenses such as invitations, cake, and gratuities for vendors, which can add up to a substantial amount.

To save money on a wedding, consider strategies such as keeping the guest list small, asking talented friends to contribute their skills instead of gifts, and looking for vendors who are just starting out or offering student rates. Planning early, setting a realistic budget, and being flexible with your choices can also help stretch your wedding budget further.

Music and playlists

Music is an integral part of a wedding, and a well-curated playlist can make or break the atmosphere. Here are some tips and song suggestions to ensure your wedding has the perfect soundtrack:

Tips for Creating a Wedding Playlist:

• A good mix of songs is essential to cater to a diverse range of guests. Include crowd-pleasers, sing-along ballads, rock anthems, romantic hits, and golden oldies.
• The number of songs you need depends on the duration of your wedding reception. Generally, you'll want 80-100 songs for a DJ and 50-60 songs for a live band.
• Couples often choose songs for key moments, such as the first dance, and provide a "must-play" and "do-not-play" list to their DJ or band.
• When creating your playlist, consider your favourite songs, and don't be afraid to include some unique choices that reflect your personality.
• If you hire a DJ or band, they will likely provide a library of popular wedding songs that you can add to and customise.

Popular Wedding Songs:

• I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Whitney Houston: This feel-good song about dancing with loved ones is often the number one choice for weddings and has appeared in many wedding-themed playlists.
• Dancing Queen by ABBA: A classic Euro-disco pop hit that is sure to get everyone on the dance floor.
• Mr. Brightside by The Killers: An indie-rock favourite that speaks to multiple generations and is perfect for jumping around.
• Marry You by Bruno Mars: An upbeat, romantic choice for weddings, perfect for getting guests in the mood to celebrate.
• Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) by Stevie Wonder: A Motown classic with a great opening hook and cross-generational appeal.
• Don't Stop Believin' by Journey: An iconic last song of the night, with opening bars that signal one final chance to dance the night away.
• Crazy in Love (feat. Jay-Z) by Beyoncé: A crowd-pleaser with horns that signal a "call to action" and an irresistible dance beat.
• Shut Up and Dance by Walk The Moon: An upbeat track that will have everyone on the dance floor, as summed up by its title.
• You've Got the Love by Florence + The Machine: An indie-pop hit with powerful vocals and a testament to love in all its forms.
• Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley: A timeless love song from the King himself, tucked away in the soundtrack of his film "Blue Hawaii."
• You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) by Sylvester: A disco classic that will have your guests feeling mighty real on the dance floor.
• You're Still The One by Shania Twain: A heartfelt declaration of lasting love, perfect for slow dancing and creating romantic moments.
• All of Me by John Legend: A lyrical love letter to his wife, Chrissy Teigen, that will have couples slow dancing and reaching for the tissues.
• Perfect by Ed Sheeran: With lyrics that perfectly describe a bride on her wedding day, this chart-topping hit is a popular choice for modern weddings.
• Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran: Another swoon-worthy modern classic by Ed Sheeran, which earned him two Grammys and remains a favourite for Gen Z and young Millennial fans.
• Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) by Beyoncé: A fun and empowering choice, especially for the bride squad, with a message that resonates: "If you liked it, then you should've put a ring on it!"
• Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars: A modern classic that will have your guests dancing and feeling funky.
• September by Earth, Wind & Fire: A '70s disco hit with a funky bass line that gives off vintage vibes without feeling outdated.
• I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas

Wedding destinations

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but choosing the perfect destination for your big day can make it a lot more fun! Here are some popular wedding destinations to consider:

Beach Weddings

If you're dreaming of a beach wedding, there are plenty of stunning locations to choose from. Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are all popular choices, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush natural surroundings. Cancun, in particular, stands out for its vibrant energy, turquoise waters, and swanky resorts with all-inclusive wedding packages. The Caribbean is also a great option, with its white-sand beaches and romantic sunsets.

Tropical Paradise

For a tropical paradise feel, consider destinations like Bali, the Maldives, or Sri Lanka. Bali offers lush greenery, majestic temples, and world-renowned surf spots, while the Maldives provides luxurious overwater bungalows and vibrant coral reefs. Sri Lanka combines cultural attractions, ancient cities, and pristine beaches, making it a unique and interesting choice.

European Charm

If you're looking for European charm, the French Riviera and Santorini are excellent options. The French Riviera boasts glamorous beaches, chic resorts, and sophisticated charm, while Santorini presents iconic white and blue buildings, charming villages, and excellent Greek cuisine.

US Destinations

For those who want to stay within the US, Napa Valley, California, and Kodiak Island, Alaska, offer unique experiences. Napa Valley is perfect for wine lovers, with its stunning vineyards and elegant venues, while Kodiak Island provides a wild and untamed backdrop for your special day.

Other Options

Other destinations to consider include:

• Punta Cana, known for its luxury resorts and stunning beaches.
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with its jaw-dropping sunsets, intimate beachfront settings, and thrilling water sports.
• The Gulf of Papagayo, Costa Rica, for its pristine beaches, epic sunsets, and vibrant wildlife.
• Mykonos, Greece, with its mesmerizing blue waters, charming chapels, and vibrant nightlife.
• The Bahamas, offering colorful coral reefs, incredible diving spots, and historic sites.

No matter which destination you choose, remember to consider factors such as cost, guest count, and the specific amenities and services you desire to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Being single at a wedding

Weddings are often a time of celebration and joy, but they can also be challenging if you're single. Here are some tips to navigate this situation:

Navigating the Challenges of Being Single at a Wedding

• Don't feel pressured to bring a date: While it's common in pop culture to bring a fake date to a wedding, it's perfectly fine to attend as a single person. You don't need to feign being partnered, and it's important to feel comfortable in your relationship status.
• Be mindful of cost implications: Flying solo to a wedding can be expensive. There may be single occupancy room charges, transport costs, wedding gifts, and drinks to consider. Be conscious of these expenses and plan accordingly.
• Avoid insensitive comments: Comments like "the waiters are hot if you feel lonely" or assuming that single people want to be set up can be hurtful and insulting. Respect people's relationship status and boundaries.
• Don't pry into love lives: Well-meaning inquiries about a single person's romantic situation can sometimes come across as intrusive or pitying. Instead, focus on catching up and celebrating the happy couple without making assumptions about their love life.
• Be inclusive in conversations: Singles, especially those in their 20s and 30s, may feel left out when conversations revolve heavily around married life, in-laws, and home-hunting. Be mindful of including them in discussions that are not solely focused on couple-related topics.
• Respect their dance floor boundaries: When slow songs come on, some single people may feel uncomfortable and choose to step off the dance floor. Respect their decision and don't pressure them to dance if they don't want to.

Embracing the Positives of Being Single at a Wedding

• Enjoy the freedom: Single people often have more fun when drinking at weddings, embracing a "fuck-it" mindset without the same level of consequences as coupled-up guests.
• Make new connections: Weddings are a great place to meet new people and form connections. You never know who you might click with, and it's a chance to expand your social circle.
• Focus on celebrating the couple: Ultimately, the wedding is about the happy couple. Channel your energy into celebrating their love and creating memorable moments with them and their loved ones.

Frequently asked questions