Are people really buying tickets to attend strangers' weddings?
Forget faux-crashing weddings or faking membership of a dhol group. In 2025, there's another trend emerging that takes wedding fever to an entirely new level: paying to be a guest at somebody else's wedding, no invite, no familial connection, and no obligation whatsoever.
Sites such as Invitin (France) and Join My Wedding (India) are making this offbeat idea a full-fledged experience economy moment. For ₹10,000–₹15,000, you can purchase a ticket to see the drama, dance, and dazzle of a grand fat wedding without having to justify your relationship with the bride or groom.
What exactly is this trend?
It's exactly what it sounds like: individuals are registering as paying guests to witness actual weddings. The concept started out as a cultural exchange, facilitating foreigners and curious locals learning about Indian weddings or French ceremonies. But now, it has blown up into a social trend, with influencers, Gen Z adventurers, and even solo travelers climbing aboard.
Guests receive the entire shaadi experience mehendi, sangeet, baraat, pheras and of course, the post-wedding buffet. Imagine it as Airbnb meets ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, but for weddings.
Why are people paying?
The incentives are as diverse as the dance playlists:
- For the vibes: Not everyone receives an invite to a big wedding. This trend provides access to that fantasy celebration.
- Cultural curiosity: Especially popular with international tourists who want to immerse themselves in Indian wedding culture.
- Social butterflies unite: It's a networking opportunity dressed as a celebration. Who knows who you’ll meet between gulab jamuns and genda phools?
- Content Creation: Influencers and lifestyle vloggers love documenting the shaadi chaos and glam without emotional strings attached.
The host’s perspective
Surprisingly, some couples enjoy it as well. It's one way to celebrate their special day with more friends, learn about one another's culture, and yes, sometimes even break even. The guests feel at home among the crowd, add fantastic energy, and tend to leave with incredible stories and Instagram reels.
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Of course, not all families are on board. Some consider it watered down to the intimacy of the occasion. But for ultra-modern or destination weddings, the idea is picking up steam.
The Price tag
The average price range is ₹10,000–₹15,000 per head, which usually includes tickets to all main events, meals, and sometimes even dress code or basic styling guidance. It's not so much about arriving, it's about arriving right.
Would You RSVP?
In a universe where connection is currency and experiences are more important than material possessions, this trend is a winning combination. It's social, fun, individualized, and utterly unpredictable. And you get to have wedding food without investing in a gift or having to justify why you're still single.
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So, the question is: Would you pay for a ticket to someone else's wedding, or do you want to make a grab for the door before the DJ plays "London Thumakda"?
