WEDDING ETIQUETTE: Who Pays for What?

Things are changing these days. Gone are the days when the bride’s family solely finance the wedding just because they are the ones giving out a daughter. In recent times, we have seen the bills been split between families. So, who pays for what when it comes to your wedding? Basically, the bills are split between three parties – the bride’s family, the groom’s family and the couple. 

However, the wedding party are not left behind. There are no hard and fast rules to it. When you keep the communication lines opened, no party will feel like they are been forced to pay for what they cannot afford. Hold a family meeting to discuss who pays for a particular item. What you have below is a guideline, feel free to edit to your preferences. Have a stress-free planning!

Bride’s family

• The Engagement Party
• Stationery – IVs, ceremony & reception programs, thank you notes
• Decorator
• The Ceremony
• Musician/Live Band/DJ
• Photographer/Videographer
• The Reception
• Their own attire
• Their own travel arrangements to the venue

Groom’s family

• The honeymoon
• Wedding night travel and lodging expenses
• Wedding gift for the newlyweds
• Transportation of gifts to the newlyweds home
• Their own attire
• Their own travel arrangements to the venue
• Wedding car hire

The Couple

• Engagement ring and Wedding rings
• Wedding attire – dress & accessories, tux & accessories
• Wedding party gifts
• Accommodation for out-of-town wedding party
• Wedding gift for the each other
• The marriage license/certificate; registry fees
• Transportation for bridal party during event

Maid of Honour and Bridesmaids

• Bridal showers
• Clothing and accessories
• Travel expenses
• Wedding gift for newlyweds

Best Man and Groomsmen

• Bachelor’s eve party
• Clothing and accessories
• Travel expenses
• Wedding gifts for newly weds