Financial Strain: Half of Couples Go into Debt for Their Weddings

As couples plan their weddings, the desire to create a memorable event often leads to significant financial expenditure. In an effort to celebrate what many consider the most important day of their lives, numerous couples are finding themselves in debt. A recent survey conducted by the financial service provider Raisin reveals that a staggering 48% of couples have incurred debt to finance their wedding festivities.

While many couples diligently save for their special day, only 12% of those surveyed admitted to not saving any funds prior to the wedding. Interestingly, 28% of respondents reported saving for more than three years in anticipation of their marriage.

In terms of financial support, guests often contribute to offset the costs. According to the survey, approximately 85% of wedding guests give cash gifts, averaging around EUR140 per person. Male guests tend to be slightly more generous, contributing an average of EUR151, compared to EUR117 from female guests.

The survey also found that nearly half of the couples (46.6%) estimate their wedding costs at around EUR100 per guest, suggesting that a lavish celebration is still a priority for many. Interestingly, inviting older guests could yield higher monetary gifts, as approximately 25% of guests aged over 60 reportedly give more than EUR300.

Ultimately, the amount gifted often correlates with the closeness of the relationship between the couple and the guest, rather than the scale of the celebration itself, as only 14% of respondents considered the size of the wedding in determining their gift amount.

The research was conducted by the market research institute Innofact, which surveyed 1,037 individuals aged between 18 and 89, who either married in 2023, 2024, or 2025, or are planning to do so. The survey also included responses from those invited to weddings.