Social Media Pressure Is Shifting the Focus of Marriage – Event Planner

By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh

Event planner and Chief Executive Officer of Kekel Events, Bernice Darkowaah, has highlighted that social media has significantly altered how weddings are perceived, often shifting attention away from the true purpose of marriage.

Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed 101.9FM, Ms. Darkowaah noted that before the rise of social media, weddings were simpler and less pressured. According to her, marriage ceremonies in the past centred mainly on the union of two families, beginning with traditional rites and, in some cases, followed by a church wedding.

“Before the social media era, people were still getting married and there was no pressure. It was about the two families coming together, performing the traditional marriage, and possibly going to church. All the extras came later,” she said.

She stated that while modern weddings have become more elaborate and visually appealing, many couples have lost sight of the fundamental reason for marriage. In her view, too much emphasis is now placed on what is seen and showcased, rather than on the meaning of the union itself.

Ms. Darkowaah was quick to clarify that there is nothing wrong with having a beautiful and well-planned wedding, especially if a couple can afford it. “It’s beautiful, and you only get married once in your lifetime. If you can afford it, why not?” she said.

However, she stressed that couples who manage wedding-related stress more effectively are usually those who clearly understand and accept what they are doing and why they are doing it. Drawing from her experience with clients, she explained that such couples tend to enjoy their wedding day more fully.

“On the event day, they lose themselves. They are not worried about camera angles or how they look. They are present in the moment because they understand the real reason for the celebration,” she noted.

According to Ms. Darkowaah, couples who remain grounded in the purpose of their union recognise that the wedding is primarily about the bond between husband and wife, while guests and pageantry are secondary.

She noted that reclaiming the true essence of marriage can help couples reduce pressure, enjoy the process, and create more meaningful wedding experiences, regardless of scale.