Who Pays For What?

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There are no absolute rules on who pays for what. Traditionally, the majority of the wedding expenses have been borne by the bride's family. However, today with the increased cost of weddings, this obligation depends on the individual situation.

It is best to discuss the subject with both families in order to work out the best solution for everyone.

Traditionally, the expenses involved are paid for by the bride, the groom, and their families as follows:

The Bride:

Wedding ring for the groom.
A wedding gift for the groom.
Gifts for the bridal attendants.
Personal stationery.
Medical examination and blood test.
Accommodations for out-of-town attendants.

The Groom:

The bride's engagement and wedding rings.
A wedding gift for the bride.
Gifts for the best man and ushers.
Groom's wedding attire.
Bride's bouquet and going away corsage.
Mothers' corsages
Boutonnieres for attendants and fathers.
Medical examination and blood test.
Marriage license.
Clergyman's fee.
The honeymoon expenses.
Bachelor dinner (if not given by the best man, optional).

The Bride's Family:

Engagement party (optional).
Ceremony cost: location, music, rentals, and all related expenses.
Entire cost of reception: food, beverage, entertainment, rental items, decorations, wedding cake.
Bride's wedding attire and accessories.
A wedding gift for the couple.
Wedding invitations, announcements, and mailing costs.
Bridesmaids' bouquets.
Transportation for bridal party from bride's home to the site of ceremony.
Bridesmaids' luncheon.
Photography (groom's parents may pay for the pictures they would like).
Personal wedding attire.
Floral decorations.
Special item they may wish to purchase: toasting goblets, ring pillow, etc.

The Groom's Family:

Rehearsal dinner party.
Personal wedding attire.
Travel and accommodations for groom's family.
Wedding gift for the bride and groom.
Special item they may wish to purchase: toasting goblets, ring pillow, etc.
Any general expenses they may wish to contribute.

The Attendants:

Wedding attire for themselves.
Any travel expenses.
Wedding gift for bride and groom.
Showers given by maid of honor or bridesmaids.
Bachelor party given by best man or ushers.

The Bride and Groom:

Gifts of appreciation for parents or others who helped with your wedding.
Expenses of items desired which have exceeded original budget allocations.