A couple from New York City who sold tickets to their wedding experience last year has come under fire after videos and social media posts recapping their 12-hour event went viral. Kareem and Nova Styles were married on June 24, 2023, and their unique approach to their nuptials has sparked discussions online. The couple sold $333 tickets for the “Styles Wedding Experience” to their guests, citing a limited guest list of 60 people out of 350 invites. Guests were taken on a customized double-decker tour bus to various locations in Manhattan for the wedding festivities, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Hudson Yards, a movie theater, and One World Trade Center.
The couple’s decision to sell tickets to their wedding received significant backlash on social media, with many criticizing them for being “greedy” and “tacky.” Some users expressed offense at being asked to pay $333 per guest, while others questioned the couple’s motives. Despite the negative comments, Kareem and Nova defended their actions, stating that the revenue from the ticket sales did not cover the cost of the wedding day. They emphasized that they paid for the entire wedding themselves and that the ticket sales helped them save $70,000 on the cost of the reception. The couple explained that the limited number of guests on the bus was a factor in their decision to sell tickets.
While the couple faced criticism for their unconventional wedding approach, some defended them for their initiative and creativity. One Instagram user pointed out that if guests were willing to pay for the tickets, it meant they wanted to be there. Others suggested that selling tickets to weddings could be a cost-saving measure, particularly in cultures where weddings are elaborate and guests may not bring gifts. The Styles family expressed gratitude for the support they received from those who understood their perspective and were willing to embrace their unconventional wedding experience.
Despite the controversy surrounding their wedding, Kareem and Nova appear to be taking the criticism in stride. In a video posted on their social media pages, the couple can be seen playfully reacting to the negative comments before smiling and dancing. They shared their hope to use the money saved from the ticket sales to start a family, emphasizing that the decision was part of their financial planning. As discussions about their wedding continue to circulate online, the couple remains unapologetic about their choices and the innovative approach they took to celebrate their special day.
In conclusion, the New York City couple who sold tickets to their wedding experience faced both criticism and support for their unconventional approach to their nuptials. While some viewed their decision as greedy and tacky, others praised them for their creativity and financial planning. The couple defended their actions, explaining that the ticket sales helped cover wedding costs and allowed them to save money for their future. Despite the backlash, Kareem and Nova Styles remain unapologetic and are embracing the attention their unique wedding has garnered. Only time will tell if their wedding experience will pave the way for new innovations in wedding planning.
