Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, celebrating three decades of marriage, used a prerecorded segment on “Live with Kelly and Mark” to urge couples to rethink extravagant weddings. The pair described large ceremonies as a “micro trend” for 2026 and promoted smaller, more affordable celebrations.

Why a smaller wedding?

Ripa highlighted several cost‑saving ideas: a tiny guest list, a quirky cake, candles instead of floral arrangements, and a focus on budget‑friendly venues. She noted that buffets are returning because they are inexpensive and cheerful, and many brides are opting for second‑hand wedding dresses, noting that a dress rarely gets worn more than once.

Consuelos added that couples could even forego a traditional engagement ring in favor of a single, simple wedding band. He recalled their own Las Vegas elopement in May 1996, which cost under $200, and said, “Our wedding was great. $179, including airfare.” The couple joked about starting a “wedding service” to counsel would‑be couples away from big‑budget celebrations.

Personal reflections

Ripa shared a small regret from their own wedding: she wished they had included flowers, saying, “I always think my hands look awkward without them.” She described a photo from the day where she is posing without flowers as “very awkward.” The couple also joked about their long‑standing humor on the show, with Consuelos quipping he would stay in a “loveless marriage” rather than risk losing their dog, Lena, in a divorce.

Overall, the message was clear: couples can redirect wedding funds toward future goals such as buying a home or building equity, rather than spending heavily on ceremonies, flowers, rings and dresses that may not provide lasting value.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.