Weddings are often seen as the ultimate celebration of love, a day when couples pull out all the stops to create a magical experience. Lavish venues, designer gowns, gourmet catering, and over-the-top entertainment have become the norm, thanks to the influence of social media and celebrity culture. But while an extravagant wedding may make for a stunning photo album, studies suggest it could also increase the chances of divorce.

Research from Emory University found that couples who spend more on their weddings tend to have shorter marriages. According to the study, couples who spent over $20,000 on their wedding were 46% more likely to get divorced than those who kept their expenses between $5,000 and $10,000. The findings suggest that financial strain from an expensive wedding can create stress early in a marriage, leading to conflict and dissatisfaction.

One of the biggest contributors to divorce is financial stress, and an extravagant wedding can be a major burden. Many couples go into debt trying to create a dream wedding, only to find themselves struggling to pay it off for years. When financial struggles replace the excitement of newlywed life, resentment can build, and arguments become more frequent.

Additionally, expensive weddings often shift the focus from the marriage itself to the spectacle of the event. Couples may get so caught up in impressing guests that they lose sight of the true purpose—building a strong foundation for a lifelong partnership.

On the other hand, the study also found that couples who spent less on their weddings and prioritized their relationship over the event were more likely to have successful marriages. Simple weddings encourage couples to focus on what truly matters: their love, their values, and their commitment to each other.

Small, intimate ceremonies often lead to stronger bonds because they eliminate the pressure of creating a perfect event. Instead, couples can invest in experiences that bring them closer—such as pre-marital counseling, financial planning, and meaningful conversations about their future.

There’s nothing wrong with celebrating love, but it’s important to remember that a wedding is just one day—marriage is for a lifetime. Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars on an elaborate event, consider investing in the things that will truly strengthen your relationship.

Prioritize your partnership, keep the wedding simple, and focus on building a love that lasts.