Who Pays For What?

As with many changing customs and traditions, the financing of a wedding has changed too. It is no longer written in stone as to who is required to pay for different aspects of a wedding. In fact, many brides and grooms are paying for their own wedding.

However, here are the "traditional" roles in financing a wedding for your convenience:

• THE BRIDE generally pays for the groom's wedding ring, lodging for her out of town attendants, a luncheon or party for her bridesmaids, a wedding gift for her future husband, and gifts for the bridesmaids.
• THE GROOM generally pays for engagement ring and the bride's wedding rings, any fees for the marriage license and/or other legal documents. He also finances the costs of the honeymoon, a wedding gift for his future wife, lodging for his out of town attendants, the clergy fee, and transportation.
• THE BRIDESMAIDS and MAID OF HONOR generally pay for the bridal shower, and the bachelorette party. They also pay for their own gowns and accessories.
• THE GROOMSMEN and BEST MAN generally pay for the bachelor party and for their own tuxedos or other formal wear.
• PARENTS OF THE GROOM generally pay for the rehearsal dinner, and/or after wedding brunch. Of course, they also give a generous gift to the couple.
• PARENTS OF THE BRIDE generally pay for everything else. This comes from the old tradition of dowry. They pay for everything needed for the reception, including music, flowers, the reception facility, food, bar costs, and anything else. They also buy their daughter her bridal gown, pay any gratuities, and of course, they also give a generous gift to the couple.

As stated these are not rules but merely guidelines. Your own personal finances will dictate what type of wedding reception you have, and who pays for what is entirely up to you and your families.

by Kristin Oiam