Who Pays for What?
It often gets confusing on what the bride, groom, and families are responsible for paying for. Of course, there are traditional rules and customs; however, with recent times, changes in economic situations and larger and bigger weddings being planned, these rules are open to interpretation and changes.
Traditionally, these are the etiquette rules…
Ceremony — Bride and family pay for church or synagogue, organist, etc. and Groom and family pay for marriage license and officiant’s fee.
Clothes — Bride and family pay for bride’s dress, veil, accessories, and honeymoon clothing. Groom and family pay for groom’s outfit. All attendants pay for their own clothing (including shoes).
Flowers — Bride and family pay for arrangements for church/synagogue and reception, plus bouquets and corsages for bridesmaids and flower girls. Groom and family pay for bride’s bouquet and going-away corsage, boutonnieres for men, and corsages for mothers and grandmothers.
Honeymoon — Groom and family pay for complete honeymoon.
Photography — Bride and family pay for all wedding photos and video.
Pre-wedding Parties — Bride’s family hosts the first one, Groom’s family plans and hosts the rehearsal dinner. Bride plans and hosts bridesmaids’ luncheon. Groom hosts and plans bachelors’ dinner. Maid of honor and bridesmaids host bridal shower. Best man and ushers host bachelor party. Friends may throw additional engagement parties or showers.
Reception — Bride and family pay for all professional services, including food, drink, decorations, and music.
Rings —Bride and/or her family pay for groom’s ring. Groom and/or his family pay for both of the bride’s rings.
Invitations– Bride and family pay for invitations, announcements, and wedding programs.
Transportation — Bride and family pay for wedding transportation of bridal party to and from ceremony and reception.
Hopefully this will help you when planning your wedding, but always know that traditions can be bent and/or broken if someone is not able to fulfill these requirements. Also, remember to remain flexible during this stressful time as it can cause many disagreements and/or arguments during a time that should be a happy and loving occasion.