The Charms of a "Fee-Based Wedding" That Delight Both the Newlyweds and Guests: What Makes It Special?

2017.03.27 published

Recently Growing "Membership Fee Weddings"*

To all the brides-to-be, have you ever participated in a "Membership Fee Wedding"??

The typical style of a wedding is the "monetary gift system," where guests bring money wrapped in an envelope as a congratulatory gift.

There are no strict rules regarding the amount of the monetary gift, but it has become an unspoken rule for friends to give about "30,000 yen"＊

On the other hand, "Membership Fee Weddings" involve the bride and groom setting a fee, and guests pay that amount directly at the reception.

This "Membership Fee Wedding," which was once a custom in only certain regions like Hokkaido, is now becoming more widespread＊

In this article, we will introduce couples suited for a Membership Fee Wedding, the appeal of this system, and how to set the fee♩

Who are the couples suited for a "Membership Fee Wedding"?*

The perfect bride and groom for a "Membership Fee Wedding" instead of a traditional "monetary gift wedding" might be:

☑ Those who wish to have a ceremony only with family, inviting guests only for the reception

☑ Those who plan to hold a 1.5 celebration after the wedding

☑ Those who will not invite work colleagues and will only have family and friends

☑ Those who want a relaxed wedding ceremony free from traditional constraints

☑ Those looking to reduce wedding costs

Let's explore why these brides and grooms might benefit from a Membership Fee Wedding, along with its charms!*

Appeal of Membership Fee Weddings #1 Unconstrained by Form

Membership Fee Weddings offer a more casual and flexible wedding style compared to monetary gift weddings. They are often held in restaurants rather than specialized wedding venues like guesthouses or hotels.

The fee for a Membership Fee Wedding typically ranges from 8,000 to 20,000 yen＊ With a lower fee, couples can simplify various aspects, such as performances and hospitality.

For instance, there is no need for cake cutting ceremonies, candle services, or video presentations, and guests are not required to have return gifts.

Instead of the atmosphere of "THE wedding," couples can enjoy a more personalized, homey celebration♡

@hm_wedding_1214

Appeal of Membership Fee Weddings #2 Lower Financial Burden

Membership Fee Weddings generally incur less financial burden for both the bride and groom as well as the guests.

The typical fee for a Membership Fee Wedding is set at a higher rate than a second party, between 8,000 to 20,000 yen. Since it is common for guests to bring around 30,000 yen for a monetary gift wedding, the burden on guests is lessened.

You might think this increases the financial burden on the couple; however, that is not the case.

First, with a Membership Fee Wedding, depending on the fee amount, it is generally unnecessary to prepare return gifts or transportation allowances.

In a monetary gift scenario, return gifts usually cost around 5,000 yen per guest, allowing for savings in that regard.

Additionally, because the barrier to inviting guests is lower with a membership fee structure, couples can cast a wider net when reaching out to friends. This often results in not needing a second party.

Expenses for second parties, such as wedding dresses for the second event, costs for organizers, game prizes, and small gifts, can add up. By opting for a Membership Fee Wedding and forgoing the second party, these burdens are eliminated◎

@kao.0423

Appeal of Membership Fee Weddings #3 Clear Cost Burden

In a monetary gift wedding, it is impossible to know how much money will be collected until the day of the event.

Friends may commonly give 30,000 yen, while relatives and employers might give 50,000 yen…but it is possible that the total amount could be considerably less than expected. There may be a situation where, upon opening the envelopes, it turns out to be significantly in the red!

Conversely, with a Membership Fee Wedding, the amount is already predetermined, allowing for easier financial planning after the wedding. It's much simpler to plan finances post-wedding◎

Since everyone pays the same fee regardless of their relationship or status, guests don’t have to worry about how much to contribute.

We have introduced the appeal of Membership Fee Weddings＊ Lastly, let’s discuss how to set the fee amount♡

How to Set the Fee for a Membership Fee Wedding

The amount for a Membership Fee Wedding depends on the kind of celebration the couple envisions.

The closer it resembles typical wedding reception elements (venue, performances, food, etc.), the higher the membership fee will be. Conversely, if it resembles a second party, the fee can be lower.

According to survey research, about 60% of Membership Fee Weddings set their fees at less than 10,000 yen, while 24% set it between 10,000 to 15,000 yen. It seems most couples keep their fees under 15,000 yen. (According to a survey by Minna no Wedding)

@mochan_40

Let's find a balance based on what kind of party you envision＊ Since cash is collected at the reception, it is recommended to choose round figures like 10,000 or 15,000 yen◎

Moreover, since there are no return gifts in a Membership Fee Wedding, the quality of food will directly impact the fee. To avoid situations where guests might think, "Is this cuisine worth the 20,000 yen?" make sure the food is at least on par with that of a monetary gift wedding if you're setting a higher fee＊

Enjoy a Flexible Party with a Membership Fee Wedding*

We have introduced the benefits of a Membership Fee Wedding, which is advantageous for both the couple and their guests♡

If you are a bride looking to hold a ceremony with just family or aiming for a laid-back, homey wedding free from formalities, consider a Membership Fee Wedding. Guests are sure to be highly satisfied as well◎

@sn02060519