I often come across couples who arent married but just live together, and they might be together for many years, even have children and buy a house together. But they just arent married. And when I ask why, the most common reason given is its too expensive to get married.
Is it really?
And sometimes its even christian believers who say this.
So how are we to think of marriage is it only for the rich? Only if the hsuband is willing to provide for his household, what does this say about people who dont marry yet live like they are married. They are too poor? Can weddings be cheaper or why not just register at an office. Or does it all need to be done in church. Why is it so expensive? People say they'd rather spend the money on a house. But what does that say about priorities? Have a wedding, be married and be homeless, or not marry and have a roof over your head. Can one have both?
I think the problem is that the world doesn't regard it as a religious ceremony. They treat it like a fashion show.
As for the price, I think the issue is that we lost a lot of essential skills which is why prices keep going up.
Why book a hall when you can use your church? Why hire a caterer when your church family can pitch in with finger foods. Why buy a dress if you can buy the fabric and make your own or hire someone in the church to make it for you??
But this requires planning, time management, and budgeting. It requires people in the church to pull together and work together. Plus it requires talents with sewing and cooking.
You'll find a DIY wedding is significantly cheaper than paying all kinds of professionals to do the work for you, because your paying their salaries, their deposits and fees, taxes, and over head business costs.
Convenience comes at a cost, if your willing to pay the price.