New York couple Nova and Reemo Styles faced heavy criticism after making the unconventional decision to charge their wedding guests $333 (£260) each, losing 80 percent of their guests.

The couple had their sights set on getting married at the iconic St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, but with the venue alone costing $150,000 (£117,552), they had to think outside the box to afford their dream wedding.

To cover the costs, Nova, a lifestyle influencer, came up with the idea of ​​selling tickets to her wedding, comparing the experience to attending a high-profile concert.

The couple, who married in June 2023, shared their story on TikTok, where it quickly gained attention.

Nova told ABC7: “I said, ‘People go to a Beyoncé concert because they know they’re going to have an experience. Let’s put pressure on the guests and sell tickets to a wedding.'”

However, Reemo was initially skeptical about the plan and warned that “people wouldn’t come.”

His concerns were confirmed when they were immediately faced with backlash from their friends and family. Some of their closest acquaintances expressed their displeasure, with one asking, “Who do you think you are? Jay-Z and Beyoncé?”

Despite the criticism, 60 guests agreed to pay for the experience, which included a 12-hour double-decker bus tour of New York City and a luxurious steak and lobster dinner.

This unique approach has enabled the couple to save an impressive $70,000 (£54,857), which they plan to use to start a family.

The Styles’ decision sparked a debate online, with many criticising the couple for asking guests to foot the bill for the lavish celebration.

“What a joke!” wrote one commenter, while another added: “I would be totally insulted if I was asked to spend $333 per guest. If you can’t afford it, don’t do it.”

However, not everyone was enthusiastic about the idea. Some praised the couple for their creativity in dealing with the exploding costs of modern weddings.

“This wedding was EPIC!” commented one supporter, pointing out the love and thought that went into the planning.

“That’s actually pretty clever,” wrote another. “Those who mattered didn’t mind paying for the party.”