Traditionally, the bride’s family is the one that would typically pay for most of the wedding. But in today’s world, it is more likely that whoever has the money pays for the wedding, even if it is the couple themselves. The average age of couples getting married is on the rise. So with traditions changing, it will be useful for you to know what your family should expect. Below are some examples of how the finances should be split up among families.
Bride’s Responsibilities
- Personal stationary
- Wedding ring for the groom
- Wedding gifts for the groom
- Gifts for bridal attendants
- Lodging for out-of-town guests (if your family only)
- Physical examination
Groom’s Responsibilities
- Bride’s ring
- Honeymoon
- Wedding gift for the bride
- Bridal bouquet and going-away corsage
- Boutonnieres for all men in wedding party
- Mother’s corsage
- Physical examination
- Gifts for best man and ushers
- Ties for wedding party
- Marriage license
- Lodging for out-of-town guests (if your family only)
- Fee for clergy or judge
Bride’s Family Responsibility
- Wedding gift for newlyweds
- Entire reception
- Rental of sanctuary or chapel
- Bride’s wedding attire
- Invitations, announcements and postage
- Engagement and wedding photos
- Organist, soloist or musician fee
- Additional decorating costs
- Bridesmaid’s bouquet
- Flowers for reception
- Transportation for bridal party to ceremony and reception
- Security and insurance for gifts
Groom’s Family Responsibility
- Traveling expenses and hotel bills
- Wedding Clothes
- Rehearsal dinner (optional)
- Wedding gift for newlyweds
- Shipment of gifts to newlywed’s house
When family help with the expenses, they tend to want to have some input into the planning process as well. So these are just a few helpful tips on what each family should cover. You should take the time to go over the finances thoroughly with your fiancé and your families. Each bride’s situation is different from the next. If the planning process gets too difficult for you to handle, then please feel free to contact our event planners to help you relieve some of the stress.
Written by:
Barbara Frazier
Assistant Planner and Coordinator|Barbara@TresBelleBeauty.com
Tres Belle Weddings & Events Blog 