Study: Wedding Sticker Shock May Contribute to America’s Alarming Divorce Rate

 Posted on October 16, 2014 in Uncategorized

Emory University of Atlanta has long held esteem as one of the nation’s premier liberal arts institutions, as well as a global leader in cutting-edge research. One of the most recent research studies released by Emory encapsulates the conception and probability of divorce among American couples. The study, titled "A Diamond is Forever and Other Fairy Tales: The Relationship Between Wedding Expenses and Marriage Duration," concluded that the combined exorbitant expenses of an engagement ring and wedding preparation may determine the duration of the all-American marriage.

Of the 3,000 adults polled, it was discovered that men who set a limit between $2,000 to $4,000 for an engagement ring were 1.3 times more likely to consult with an experienced divorce attorney at some point in the marriage. Those who opted for a $500 to $2,000 price point remained in the marriage. Those who had a lower budget for engagement rings ranging from $0 to up to $500 also faced a higher instance of divorce.

Emory researchers then surveyed the female participants regarding the cost of the wedding itself. Statistically, women spending more than $20,000 on their once in a lifetime event were found to divorce at a rate 3.5 times higher than those who set the limit between $5,000 to $10,000. This may not be welcoming news for any bride to be since the average cost of today’s wedding is at least $30,000.

As the significant divorce rate remains a thorn in the side of all American couples, the Emory research team concluded their study does little to support the validity of the wedding industry’s extravagant price tag as a precursor to a couple’s "happily ever after."

If you are considering consulting with an experienced Lombard divorce attorney, the legal team A. Traub & Associates understands the importance of reaching a fair resolution at a cost-effective rate. To discuss your situation with one of our experienced attorneys, call 630-426-0196 today.