"Like many things associated with marriage, people's opinions on the subject are contradictory," said Tim Herbert, eBrain Director of Research.

"More than half of respondents strongly believe that weddings are important ceremonies, and that was true of both men and women."

Income level played a larger role than gender or age, when it came to how weddings are viewed. Those making less than $25,000 per year were most likely to think weddings were both significant and fun compared to wealthier respondents.

The majority of all respondents believe couples are pressured to put on large weddings, placing a significant burden on families.

The importance ascribed to the wedding ceremony conflicts with demographic trends away from marriage as tracked by the U.S. Census Bureau.

"So even though fewer Americans are actually getting married with each passing decade, the vast majority still believe in the sanctity of the ceremony," said Herbert.

Age also plays a role. Nearly 60% of respondents between the ages of 18 and 34 said they enjoyed attending weddings compared to just 47% aged 55 or older.

"But newlyweds should take note," said Herbert, "Older wedding guests tend to give more valuable presents, typically cash, compared with younger attendees who usually spend less and buy gifts from a couple's registry."