Weddings are stopping Gen Z from hitting financial goals

It is not surprising that weddings can be a financial burden, especially for younger generations who may be at the beginning of their careers and have less disposable income. Weddings can be expensive, both for the couple getting married and for their guests, who may be expected to cover the cost of travel, accommodation, and gifts.

Understandably, some people may feel pressure to spend more on weddings and other life milestones than they can afford, leading to financial stress. Individuals need to set financial boundaries and prioritize their financial goals while understanding and supporting their friends and family’s needs and desires.

According to a recent study, 46% of Millennials and 48% of Gen Z feel that they could focus more on their financial goals if they did not have to spend so much on friends and family members’ essential life milestones. The 2022 wedding boom made it difficult for everyone to keep up. Weddington Way conducted a survey recently and found the average cost for a bridesmaid in the U.S. is $1,695. This includes expenses such as the bridesmaid dress, travel and accommodation, and any pre-wedding events or parties. However, this is just an average, and the actual cost can be significantly higher or lower depending on the individual circumstances.

That begs the question – how to pay for a wedding when all your friends are getting married this year? Luckily, there are a few different things you can do to help you reach your financial milestones and celebrate your loved ones simultaneously.

Here are a few tips that may help you manage the costs:

• Set a budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on each wedding and stick to it. This will help you make more informed decisions about what you can afford to contribute.
• Be upfront with your friends and family: If you struggle to afford wedding gifts or other expenses, consider being honest with your friends and family about your financial situation. They may be understanding and willing to work with you to find a solution that works for everyone.
• Look for ways to save: There are many ways to save money on wedding-related expenses, such as opting for a less expensive gift or reducing travel costs.
• Don’t feel obligated to attend every wedding: It is okay to prioritize your financial well-being and choose not to participate if you cannot afford it. It is essential, to be honest with yourself and others about what you can and cannot afford.
• Consider alternative gift options: Instead of traditional gifts, consider offering your time, skills, or services as a gift. For example, you could offer to help plan the wedding or provide a special service like photography or catering.
• It is important to remember that it is okay to set boundaries and prioritize your financial well-being. It is also essential to be understanding and supportive of your friends and family, even if you cannot afford to contribute as much as you would like.

Bottom Line

Weddings appear to impact Gen Z and Millenials’ ability to achieve their financial goals. This makes it clear that the cost of weddings is a significant financial burden for many people in this generation. It is vital for individuals to carefully consider their financial situation and set appropriate boundaries when it comes to wedding-related expenses while also being supportive of their loved ones.