New York couple Nova and Reemo Styles have been facing backlash after making an unconventional decision to charge their wedding guests $333 (£260) each, ultimately losing 80 percent of their guests.
The couple had their hearts set on getting married at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, but with a price tag of $150,000 (£117,552) for the venue alone, they had to think outside the box to afford their dream wedding.
In an effort to cover costs, Nova, a lifestyle influencer, came up with the idea of selling tickets to their wedding, likening the experience to attending a high-profile concert.
The couple, who tied the knot in June 2023, shared their story on TikTok, where it quickly gained attention.
Nova explained to ABC7: “I said ‘People choose to go to a Beyoncé concert because they know they’re going to have an experience. Let’s put the stress on the guests and sell tickets for a wedding.'”
Reemo, however, was initially hesitant about the plan, warning that “people aren’t going to come”.
His concerns were validated when they faced immediate backlash from their friends and family. Some of their closest acquaintances expressed their displeasure, with one questioning: “Who do you guys think you are? Jay-Z and Beyoncé?”
Despite the criticism, 60 guests agreed to pay for the experience, which included a 12-hour double-decker bus tour of New York City and a luxury steak and lobster dinner.
The couple’s unique approach allowed them to save an impressive $70,000 (£54,857), which they plan to use to start a family.
The Styles’ decision sparked a debate online, with many criticising the couple for asking guests to foot the bill for their lavish celebration.
“What a joke!” one commenter wrote, while another added: “I would be totally offended being asked to spend $333 per guest. If you can’t afford it, don’t do it.”
However, not everyone disapproved of the idea. Some praised the couple for their creativity in handling the skyrocketing costs of modern weddings.
“This wedding was EPIC!” one supporter commented, noting the love and thought that went into the planning.
“That’s actually quite smart”, someone else wrote. “Those that mattered didn’t mind paying to celebrate.”
