A new survey reveals that 56% of individuals would decline a close friend's wedding invitation in order to save money.

A new survey reveals that 56% of individuals would decline a close friend's wedding invitation in order to save money.
A new survey reveals that 56% of individuals would decline a close friend's wedding invitation in order to save money.

A recent Bank of America survey found that over 56% of Americans would decline a wedding invitation from a close friend or family member if they couldn't afford it, and it seems that the older someone is, the more comfortable they are saying "no."

Unlike Gen X and Boomers, Gen Z and millennials are less likely to forgo getting married.

Experts suggest that attending a wedding doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing choice. There are ways to celebrate while staying within a tight budget.

Here are three ways to curb spending as a wedding guest.

1. Don't attend all events.

Wedding events, such as bridal showers and dress shopping, can occur before the wedding. You don't have to attend every single one, according to Allison Cullman, wedding expert and vice president of brand marketing at Zola, as reported by CNBC Make It.

She suggests evaluating which wedding events are essential to attend and which ones can be skipped to save money. If the bachelorette party is out of town, perhaps you can forgo the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner.

2. Pool money for a group gift.

Hannah Nowack, a senior editor at The Knot, advised CNBC Make It that wedding registries typically feature a variety of items at different price points. If your budget is limited, consider asking other guests to contribute towards a more expensive gift.

"Whether or not you're on a tight budget, this is a nice option," she says. "Perhaps you want to gift the couple a big present, such as an espresso machine or a honeymoon couple's massage, but know that doing so alone would be beyond your budget."

3. Reach out to friends to split accommodations.

In 2024, 36% of couples planned to have destination weddings, which involves additional hotel expenses for guests.

If you're not partnered or don't have a plus one to split accommodations, research who else is attending the wedding, as there's a high chance another single person will be looking to split costs, says Nowack.

"If a friend of yours is attending the wedding and you're both comfortable sharing a hotel room, it's okay to do so, says Nowack. If it means being able to attend the wedding financially responsibly or having to decline, the decision to split should be easy."

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