UPDATE: Couples are turning to the online shopping platform Temu to combat soaring wedding costs, with new research indicating that nearly 70% of couples face budget pressures when planning their big day. As the average wedding now costs an astonishing $35,315, savvy brides like Amelia Dagher are making bold moves to cut expenses.
Just announced findings from Easy Weddings reveal a significant trend: more than 50% of couples are opting to style their own ceremonies in 2025. This shift comes as traditional vendors become increasingly unaffordable, prompting couples to seek affordable alternatives.
Brisbane’s Amelia Dagher, 27, turned to social media for inspiration after receiving a shocking quote of over $10,000 for flowers alone. “The prices we were being quoted were just ridiculous,” she stated. Determined to avoid starting her marriage in debt, Dagher found solutions through Temu, purchasing artificial flowers for just $350 and creating stunning arrangements for her wedding on October 25, 2025.
In a creative twist, Dagher also crafted her own five-tier wedding cake using foam cylinders, dramatically slashing costs from an estimated $5,000 to just $100. She shared, “It felt good knowing I could have a beautiful wedding without feeling pushed to overspend.”
Similarly, Franchezca Gray, 23, from Queensland, has embraced the DIY approach for her wedding set for September 2025. After browsing Temu for affordable decor, she spent only $165 on items like table runners and personalized invitations, saving hundreds in the process. “I was shocked, in a good way,” Gray said, highlighting how these budget-friendly finds allowed her to personalize her space without breaking the bank.
The trend extends beyond weddings, as bridal parties are also using Temu for pre-wedding events. For instance, Emma Wiggley, 31, put together bridesmaid gift bags filled with customized items from Temu for her friend’s bachelorette weekend.
For couples facing similar financial pressures, Dagher advises ordering well in advance and carefully reviewing product descriptions to ensure satisfaction. The shift to budget-conscious planning is reshaping the wedding industry, as couples prioritize personal touches over traditional luxury.
With rising costs and changing preferences, this DIY revolution is expected to continue, making it easier for couples to celebrate their love without the burden of debt. As the wedding landscape evolves, platforms like Temu are becoming essential tools for budget-savvy couples everywhere.
