{
  "id": 11255355,
  "title": "We live paycheck to paycheck and don't want wedding debt. So we're getting creative.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/we-live-paycheck-to-paycheck-and-dont-want-wedding-debt-so-were",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-01T18:37:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/long-engagement-save-money-budget-wedding-2026-10"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The author of this story is preparing for her third wedding, knowing that she needs to keep the costs low. Friends have offered to officiate, DJ, photograph, and help coordinate the day, making it possible for the couple to have a meaningful celebration within their budget. Living paycheck to paycheck, the couple had to get creative when it came to planning their wedding, which would be a third one for the author, at the age of 39.\n\nThe wedding planning process began with securing a venue - a cost-effective marina that provided both ceremony and reception space, as well as a kitchen area for the reception. The tables, chairs, and security assistance were all included in the cost. The couple also received a 10% discount for booking so early.\n\nOut of traditional wedding practices, such as sending save-the-dates, the couple opted to only send invitations and used social media to find ideas for décor and planning, and joined wedding budget groups online for cost-effective advice. Friends have been enlisted to help with various aspects of the wedding, including officiating, DJing, photography, and catering. Even the MC for the day has been offered by one of Roger's classmates. This creative approach allows the couple to avoid wedding debt while still having a memorable celebration.",
  "summary": "My fiancé and I chose a two-year engagement because we're financing our wedding ourselves. The extra time lets us save and find deals.",
  "key_points": [
    "Couple lives paycheck to paycheck",
    "Creative planning avoids wedding debt",
    "Friends offer officiating, DJ, photography"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}