The average U.S. wedding costs $36,000, surpassing the median personal income of $45,000 per year. Couples are willing to go into debt to have the perfect wedding, with 95% saying it’s worth the expense. The rising cost of weddings is due in part to inflation, but also to the growing demand for “guest experience” and premium services, which have become industry standards. Advertising and social media have also played a significant role in shaping couples’ expectations and encouraging them to spend more.

Originally reported by Darden Report.