Wedding costs are continuing to climb, with average spending per customer up 8.5 percent compared to the previous year, according to Bank of America payments data. This increase is more than double the growth seen over the past two years, reflecting the impact of inflation on expenses ranging from flowers to catering.
The trend extends a post-pandemic boom, with approximately 2 million couples marrying in the U.S. in 2025, pushing total wedding spending above $100 billion. The average wedding cost reached $36,000 in 2025, a $3,000 increase from 2024.
America's wedding boom is largely driven by Gen Z, with the number of young couples marrying tripling since 2019. Bank of America data indicates a surge in Gen Z weddings over the past six years, while Millennial weddings have decreased by approximately 20 percent in the same period.
Despite overall cost increases, some couples are opting for cost-saving strategies, such as reducing spending on one-off purchases like formal attire. However, for those who do purchase formal wear, prices have risen, indicating that inflation is impacting even economizing shoppers. The average number of guests has remained relatively stable since 2019, fluctuating between 115 and 131 (excluding COVID-19 impacted years), with the average number of vendors consistently between 13 and 15, and wedding party sizes around 8 to 10 people.
Experts attribute the rising costs to the post-pandemic boom compounded by inflation, which has increased the price of essential wedding components. Venue rates, catering, labor, transportation, accommodations, and floral products have all seen price hikes.
Wedding planners advise couples to "save where it counts and splurge where it matters," emphasizing intentional spending rather than simply reducing costs. Some couples are also opting for more affordable alternatives for engagement rings, such as lab-grown diamonds, as prices for mined stones continue to rise.
Expectations for elaborate, celebrity-style weddings are higher than ever, influenced by social media trends. The article notes high-profile examples, including the rumored wedding plans of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, which reportedly involve significant security and venue costs for a New York City event. 
The overall trend indicates couples are making careful trade-offs to achieve their desired celebrations rather than abandoning them entirely. 
