A new global study on the "Cost of Friendship" found that in 2026, the average person now spends roughly 20% of their monthly salary just to attend a single wedding. Between the "perfect" outfit for the photos, the gift, and the travel, being a bridesmaid or groomsman has become a "financial hurdle." The study found that 1 in 4 people have actually turned down an invitation to a close friend's wedding simply because they couldn't afford to be a guest.

Have you ever had to say "no" to a friend’s wedding or a big celebration because it was just too expensive to attend? Or, what’s the most you’ve ever spent just to be a guest?

A new global study on the "Cost of Friendship" found that in 2026, the average person now spends roughly 20% of their monthly salary just to attend a single wedding. Between the "perfect" outfit for the photos, the gift, and the travel, being a bridesmaid or groomsman has become a "financial hurdle." The study found that 1 in 4 people have actually turned down an invitation to a close friend's wedding simply because they couldn't afford to be a guest.
Have you ever had to say "no" to a friend&rsquo;s wedding or a big celebration because it was just too expensive to attend? Or, what&rsquo;s the most you&rsquo;ve ever spent just to be a guest?

Hosted by the vivacious Stephanie Be, get a different flavour on 5 Mid Mornings. Current affairs, updates, news, views and all things entertainment!

Hosted by the vivacious Stephanie Be, get a different flavour on 5 Mid Mornings.

5 Mid Mornings

5 Mid Mornings is the best way to ease into your workday – keeping your finger on the pulse with the news, tackling some super engaging topics, interesting world views and keeping the good music flowing. It focuses strongly on uplifting and empowering young women, but is definitely also something for the guys!

5 Mid Mornings is the best way to ease into your workday – keeping your finger on the pulse with the news, tackling some super engaging topics, interesting world views and keeping the good music flowing. It focuses strongly on uplifting and empowering young women, but is definitely also something for the guys!