A New York City couple, Kareem (“Reemo”) and Nova Styles, garnered attention after selling tickets to their wedding experience that took place in June 24, 2023. The videos and social media posts recapping their 12-hour event went viral, sparking debates on various platforms. Nova Styles explained in a TikTok video that they opted for non-traditional elements in their wedding, starting with selling tickets to the event. The couple had a 350-person guest list, but only 60 invites were sent out due to the dynamics of the day. To accommodate the remaining guests, they sold tickets for $333 each, branding the event as the “Styles Wedding Experience”.
The couple emphasized that their guests voluntarily chose to attend by purchasing tickets, demonstrating trust in the process. As showcased in follow-up videos on TikTok and Instagram, the day started with guests boarding a customized “hop-on, hop-off” double-decker tour bus that transported them to various locations for the wedding festivities. The wedding ceremony took place at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in midtown Manhattan, followed by visits to Hudson Yards, a movie theater, and One World Trade Center for dancing, food, and photo shoots along the way.
While the couple’s unique approach to their wedding day received mixed reactions, with some criticizing them for being “greedy” and “tacky”, others defended their choices. Detractors raised concerns about the cost for guests and the limited number of invites compared to the guest list. Despite the backlash, Kareem and Nova Styles stood by their decision to sell tickets, clarifying that the revenue from the 60 tickets did not cover the expenses of the 12-hour event. They maintained that the ticket sales helped offset costs and that they financed the wedding themselves.
Supporters of the couple’s unconventional wedding strategy pointed out potential benefits, such as cost-cutting and managing guest numbers effectively. Some individuals viewed ticket sales as an innovative solution for expensive weddings, particularly in cultural contexts like Nigerian weddings, where large guest lists and logistical challenges are common. The couple expressed their intention to utilize the funds saved from the reception expenses to start a family, highlighting the practicality of their approach.
In response to the online criticism, Kareem and Nova Styles appeared unfazed, showcasing a lighthearted attitude in a video titled “The Comments Got Us Like…….” where they playfully react to negative feedback. Despite the polarizing opinions surrounding their wedding experience, the couple remains resolute in their choices and is focused on moving forward positively. Fox News Digital sought additional comments and details from the couple regarding their wedding day, showcasing the continued interest and intrigue surrounding the unique event.
Overall, Kareem and Nova Styles’ wedding experience, marked by ticket sales and unconventional elements, has sparked widespread discussions and reactions across social media platforms. The couple’s bold approach has invited scrutiny, admiration, and contemplation about the evolving norms and practices in the realm of weddings. As they navigate the aftermath of their viral event, Kareem and Nova Styles stand as a testament to personal expression and the willingness to challenge traditional conventions in pursuit of a memorable and meaningful celebration.
