Who pays for what

What follows is a traditional division of nuptial expenses. However,

because we no longer live in a society wherein tradition is paramount,

this is intended as merely a guide. The question of who pays for what

these days in effect comes down to who is both willing and able to.

Remember - communicate with all the involved parties at the outset of

planning and be both realistic and courteous.

Brides Family

Invitations, and other wedding stationery, including postage.

Bride's dress and all accessories.

Bridesmaid's dresses/outfits.

Flower arrangements for the reception.

Entire reception - food (caterer), drink, hire of venue.

Photographer's/Videographer's fees.

Music for the ceremony - i.e. choir, organist and/ or soloist fees.

Transportation for bridal party to ceremony and reception.

Aisle carpets and/or canopy, and any additional decorating costs .

Wedding cake.

Flowers for the church.

All extras such as confetti.

Groom

Bride's engagement and wedding rings.

All "personal" flowers Including: 

    bride's bouquet

Gifts for best man and ushers.

Fees of church/chapel etc. or civil ceremony as well as the fee for clergy or judge.

Groom's suit and best man's, if rented.

Transport for him and his immediate family to the ceremony.

Wedding gift for Bride.

Accommodation for the wedding night.

Honeymoon.

Marriage license.

Bride

Wedding ring for Groom.

Wedding gift for Groom.

Gifts for attendants (sometimes paid for by groom.)

Going away outfit.

Groom's Parents

Wedding gifts for the newly-weds.

In this day and age, quite often the groom's parents contribute to

the cost of the proceedings, usually by covering the cost of the drinks

at the reception.