Who Pays for What?

First of all, establish a manageable budget for your big day.  Determine what amount of money all of the parties involved – the bride and her parents and the groom and his parents – can and/or will contribute to the festivities.  It is customary for the bride’s family to cover the majority of the expenses.  Today, it is very common for the bride and groom to finance their own wedding and reception.

Traditionally, the bride or her parents pay for the groom’s wedding ring, the invitations and reception cards, postage, the wedding gown and the bride’s accessories, the fee for the ceremony site, all of the flowers for the ceremony, attendants and reception, gifts and lodging for the brides’ attendants, the photographer, music for the ceremony and reception, rented transportation, such as a limousine, and all the reception expenses, which includes the venue rental, food, beverages, entertainment and decorations.

The groom or his family usually pay for the engagement and wedding rings, a gift for the bride, lodging for the ushers, the marriage license, the officiant’s fee, the bride’s bouquet, corsages for the mothers and grandmothers, boutonnieres for the groomsmen, the rehearsal dinner and the honeymoon.

The maid/matron of honor and bridesmaids typically are responsible for their own gowns and accessories, a gift for the newlyweds, one shower gift, transportation to the wedding and a contribution of time and/or money to the bridal shower.

The best man and the groomsmen are responsible to pay for the renting of a tuxedo (or suit) and shoes, a gift for the newlyweds, transportation to the wedding and a contribution to the bachelor party.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the financial aspect of a wedding.  Only you know what everyone is willing and able to afford.  Establish a budget, stick to it and make your wedding as stress free as you possibly can.  Your wedding day should be the happiest day of your life because you will be united with one you love and surrounded by family and friends who love you.

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