Guide for Economizing Wedding Expenses for Attendees in the Year 2025
In the bustling world of weddings, the costs can often pile up for guests. A recent survey found that 69% of couples planning weddings report increased financial pressure due to the rising cost of living [1]. The average cost for a guest to attend a wedding in Ireland is estimated at €1,200 [2]. But there are ways to save money without missing out on the celebration.
Wedding expert Jessica O'Sullivan offers some practical advice for guests looking to save money in 2025. One of her key recommendations is to opt out of expensive elements such as overnight accommodation, especially if guests do not plan to make full use of the room [1]. Instead, choosing more affordable transport like driving oneself can help save hundreds of euros.
O'Sullivan also suggests that guests should feel free to cherry-pick what they can afford. The minimum expectation is usually the gift for the couple. If a guest cannot attend the wedding, sending a thoughtful gesture like a bottle of champagne to the wedding room can be a thoughtful alternative [1].
In addition, O'Sullivan encourages guests to decline invitations gracefully if they have multiple weddings to attend in one year. Most couples prefer honest communication and will not be upset if guests cannot attend [1]. A grace period of two months is typically allowed to decline a wedding invitation if it is six months before the event [3].
Moreover, most couples appreciate a timely response to their wedding invitations. If a room has been allocated, informing the venue in advance allows them to offer it to another guest [4]. And if a guest is unable to attend, sending a thoughtful text, card, or gift can show support for the happy couple [5].
Declining a wedding invitation gracefully is important to save the invitee from feeling anxious or guilty. Skipping the overnight stay at a wedding is another effective way to save money [6].
In conclusion, O'Sullivan's approach emphasizes financial practicality and honest communication to reduce stress and unnecessary costs for wedding guests while still celebrating the occasion respectfully [1]. By following these tips, guests can enjoy the wedding celebrations without breaking the bank.
References: 1. O'Sullivan, J. (2025). Saving Money as a Wedding Guest. Retrieved from www.weddingexpert.ie 2. Irish Wedding Journal. (2023). The Average Cost for a Guest to Attend a Wedding in Ireland. Retrieved from irishweddingjournal.ie 3. Weddings Online. (2024). The Etiquette of Declining a Wedding Invitation. Retrieved from weddingsonline.ie 4. The Knot. (2023). What to Do If You Can't Attend a Wedding You've Been Invited To. Retrieved from theknot.com 5. Brides. (2023). The Perfect Gift for a Wedding You Can't Attend. Retrieved from brides.com 6. Irish Times. (2023). How to Save Money as a Wedding Guest. Retrieved from irishtimes.com
