For many couples, deciding who pays for what can be difficult. But there are tried and tested “rules” that almost any couple can apply. Find out what they are by reading these tips on divvying up the cost of your wedding.
Not sure who should pay for what when it comes to the cost of your wedding? Whether you’re having a hard time seeing eye-to-eye when deciding who should pay for what or simply aren’t sure where to divide the cost, these tips on how to divvy up the cost of your wedding can help create a crystal clear budget sheet for both the bride and the groom.
For the Bride’s Family
Traditionally, the cost of your wedding should rest mostly on the family of the bride. Items most often purchased by the bride’s family include:
Invitations, mailing costs, and save the dates
Reception costs (including caterer)
Ceremony costs
Photographer or videographer
Bouquets for the bridal party
Transportation for the wedding party
Wedding dress and all accessories
Lingerie
Fee for wedding consultant or planner
Guest book
Accommodations for bride’s out-of-town guests and bridal party
Gift for the groom, maid of honor, and bridal party
Wedding ring for the groom
For the Groom’s Family
The groom’s family is responsible for any other wedding cost not listed. These costs include:
Marriage license
Honeymoon
Flowers for the bride’s bouquet
Corsages for mothers and grandmothers
Alcohol at the reception
Rehearsal dinner
Wedding attire for the groom
Ring for the bride
Gift for the bride, best man, groomsmen, and ushers
Accommodations for the groom’s guests and out-of-town ushers and groomsmen
Cost for Attendees
Traditionally, the cost of your wedding should not include things like guest attire, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or travel costs for your guests. Your bridal party, groomsmen, and guests should also bear the cost of their gifts to you.
Rules Apply Even When There’s No Outside Help
Even if the bride and groom are paying for their own wedding without the help of family members and friends, these rules should apply. They can, however, be bent or broken, depending on how you decide to handle the overall cost of your wedding.
