Poor Credit Scores Forced North Dakota Couples to Cancel Weddings This Year

As we wrap up 2024, let’s talk about something that’s been on a lot of minds: weddings—or rather, the ones that didn’t happen this year. A study from BadCredit.org revealed that financial challenges kept over half a million couples nationwide from tying the knot, and right here in North Dakota, about 1,381 couples hit pause on their wedding plans.

What’s going on? For many, it boils down to money. Low credit scores and rising costs made it tough for couples to afford the big day they’d envisioned. Weddings have always been expensive, but inflation has taken things to another level, leaving some couples feeling like the dream ceremony is out of reach.

Love on Hold, But Not Gone
Here’s the thing: while the financial strain was real, many couples found a silver lining. Among those who delayed their weddings, 61% are planning for 2025, and another 29% are aiming to tie the knot within three years. Some even said the extra time strengthened their relationships, with 40% reporting they grew closer despite the challenges.

That said, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. About 28% of couples said the delay caused tension, and 7% admitted they reconsidered their relationships altogether. Financial stress is no small thing, especially when it comes to something as big as starting a life together.

Choosing Love Over Debt
One big takeaway from the study: North Dakota couples are choosing financial stability over extravagance. When asked, a whopping 88% said they’d prefer a modest wedding without debt rather than a lavish affair that could cause financial headaches later.

Still, some are making sacrifices to fund their big day:

• 54% said they’d consider cutting essential expenses like food or rent.
• 23% might sell personal or family heirlooms.
• 22% were willing to take out high-interest loans.

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Looking Ahead to 2025
Even with these hurdles, love is clearly still winning. And honestly, starting a marriage on solid financial footing is probably one of the best gifts you can give yourselves.

Here’s to the couples who postponed this year—may 2025 bring you the wedding (and the future) you’ve been dreaming of. Love isn’t about the size of the celebration; it’s about the life you’re building together.

Map Showing The Number of Weddings Impacted by State