How weddings got so expensive

How weddings got so expensive

From Reasonably Optimistic by The Washington Post

June 5, 2026 · 19 min

About this episode

Megan McArdle explores the complexities behind the rising costs of modern weddings.

The average wedding now costs $36,000, and many couples feel like they are being taken for a ride. From weekend bottlenecks and customization to family dynamics and the pressure to get everything right, the answer is more complicated than simple price gouging. Host Megan McArdle explores why modern weddings have become so expensive. Subscribe to The Washington Post here .

People in this episode

Host: Megan McArdle

Topics covered

  • weddings
  • cost
  • economics
  • family dynamics
  • pressure
  • customization

Keywords

  • wedding costs
  • average wedding price
  • family dynamics
  • customization
  • price gouging

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