Book Review: The Wedding People by Alison Espach

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Alison Espach’s The Wedding People is an unexpected journey, where the seemingly mundane setting of a wedding weekend turns into an exploration of life’s missed connections, emotional surprises, and serendipitous bonds.

From the very first scene, where Phoebe Stone arrives at the Cornwall Inn in a green dress and gold heels, it’s clear this isn’t going to be your average wedding weekend. Phoebe is the only guest who isn’t here for the main event. Instead, she’s taking one last extravagant trip to Newport, Rhode Island—a plan meant for her and her now-absent husband. Phoebe is raw, vulnerable, and teetering on the edge of her personal rock bottom. As someone who dreamed of romantic boat rides and oyster-shucking, her reality of being alone feels like a stab in the heart. Yet, she’s determined to make the best of it.

Enter the bride. She’s organized, precise, and ready to avoid any wedding disaster—except Phoebe. What could have been a collision of personalities instead unfolds into a surprising friendship. The connection between Phoebe and the bride is the backbone of the story, with both women finding solace in each other’s company. Espach crafts their evolving relationship with humor and tenderness, making it impossible not to root for them as they lean into their vulnerabilities.

The novel is often absurdly funny—whether it’s the missteps of wedding guests, Phoebe’s awkward encounters, or the chaos that ensues from the bride’s meticulously planned day going awry. Yet, the emotional weight is ever-present. Espach deftly balances humor with profound moments of grief, healing, and self-reflection. The depth of these characters is what makes the novel truly shine. You’re left feeling as though you’ve been on the journey with them, cheering them on as they navigate the tangled web of emotions that life throws their way.

I docked a star simply because at times, the narrative meanders, and some scenes feel drawn out longer than necessary. But the charm and heart at the core of The Wedding People more than make up for these pacing issues.

Overall, The Wedding People is a tender and funny read that reminds us that the most unexpected people can lead us to the healing we never knew we needed. If you’re in the mood for a character-driven, emotionally resonant novel with a dash of wedding chaos, this one’s for you.