Feb 3, 2025
Big weddings: they’re the dream for some and the nightmare for others. Whether you envision a grand ballroom, hundreds of guests, and a night to remember, or you’re second-guessing the cost and stress, the question remains: is a big wedding really worth it?
To find the answer, we spoke to Amanda and James, a couple who tied the knot in a lavish ceremony with over 200 guests. Here’s what they learned along the way, and the advice they wish they’d gotten beforehand.
The Big Day: What They Loved
For Amanda and James, the magic of their big wedding wasn’t just about the venue or the flowers; it was about the moments shared with everyone they loved.
1. Seeing Everyone in One Place
“One of the most unforgettable parts of our day was looking out during the ceremony and seeing all the people who shaped our lives,” Amanda said. “From childhood friends to distant relatives, it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime reunion.”
For couples with large social circles or extended families, a big wedding can bring everyone together in a way few other occasions can.
2. The Atmosphere Was Unmatched
“A full dance floor, the energy of the crowd, and everyone celebrating together—it felt like a movie,” James added. “The vibe of a big wedding is something special.”
A larger guest list often means a livelier party, complete with multiple personalities to keep the night interesting.
3. The Photos and Memories Were Priceless
Their photographer captured stunning group shots, candid moments, and the sheer scale of the event. “Looking back at the photos, I’m so glad we went big,” Amanda shared.
What They Didn’t Expect
Of course, not everything went perfectly. Amanda and James admitted that a big wedding came with challenges they didn’t anticipate.
1. The Financial Reality
“We set a budget, but it was so easy to go over,” James said. “Between catering, decor, and the venue, the costs added up fast.”
Pro Tip: Be realistic about your budget and factor in hidden costs like gratuities, overtime charges, and last-minute expenses.
2. Less Time with Guests
Amanda admitted that while she loved seeing so many people, it was overwhelming. “I barely got to spend more than a few minutes with most guests. By the end of the night, I felt like I hadn’t even caught up with half of them.”
Pro Tip: If you’re hosting a big wedding, consider a welcome party or post-wedding brunch to spend more quality time with your guests.
3. The Stress Was Real
“There were so many moving parts, from coordinating vendors to managing a massive seating chart,” Amanda said. “It felt like a second job.”
Pro Tip: Hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator can help reduce stress, especially for large-scale weddings.
What They’d Do Differently
When asked if they’d change anything, Amanda and James were candid.
Smaller Guest List: “If we could do it over, we might trim the guest list to prioritize close friends and family,” James admitted.
More Focus on Personal Moments: Amanda wished they had planned more moments for just the two of them. “The day flew by, and we barely had time to soak it all in together.”
So, Is a Big Wedding Worth It?
For Amanda and James, the answer was a heartfelt yes—with reservations. They loved the memories, the atmosphere, and the chance to celebrate with everyone they cared about. But they also acknowledged the financial and emotional toll of planning such a large event.
If you’re considering a big wedding, here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Can you comfortably afford it without going into debt?
- Are you okay with spending less one-on-one time with guests?
- Do you have a support system (or a planner) to help manage the logistics?
At the end of the day, the “right” wedding is the one that feels authentic to you as a couple—whether that’s an extravagant affair or an intimate gathering.
What do you think? Is a big wedding worth it, or would you opt for something smaller?
