Wedding Cost Wars delves into the fascinating intersection of economics and cultural traditions in modern marriage celebrations, revealing how wedding costs have skyrocketed by 300% since 1980 while household incomes have barely moved. This comprehensive analysis explores how what was once a community-centered celebration has transformed into a complex economic event that often serves as a marker of social status. Through rigorous research spanning 15 countries and four decades of economic data, the book uncovers the intricate relationships between wedding industry dynamics, cultural traditions, and societal pressures. One of the most compelling insights reveals how vendor pricing strategies have created a unique wedding inflation phenomenon, while another highlights the shift from traditional community-based celebrations to increasingly individualized, commercially-driven events. The book progresses logically through three main sections, starting with an examination of the wedding industry's evolution, moving through cultural practices across different societies, and concluding with the economic and social implications of current trends. By combining quantitative economic analysis with 200 original interviews and cultural anthropology research, the authors provide both scholarly insight and practical relevance for audiences ranging from economists and sociologists to engaged couples and wedding professionals. This unique approach makes complex economic concepts accessible while maintaining academic rigor through real-world examples and case studies.