Who Pays For What In A Wedding

It’s no secret that weddings aren’t cheap, with the average event costing somewhere close to $20,000. With figures in the tens of thousands, even the most modern of couples could use a hand from mom and dad when it comes to the budget for wedding essentials. If your folks are planning to lend a hand with wedding costs, we offer a traditional look at who pays for what at the wedding.

Who Pays: The Bride

• The groom’s gift
• The groom’s ring
• Gifts for the bridal party
• Wedding beauty (hair, nails, spa treatments, etc.)
  

Who Pays: The Groom

• The bride’s gift
• The bride’s wedding ring (and engagement ring)
• Gifts for the groomsmen
• The marriage license
• His tuxedo and accessories
  

Who Pays: The Happy Couple Together

• The marriage license
• Flowers for both mothers
• The honeymoon (unless the groom’s family pays)
• The wedding officiant fee
• Photography and video
• Blood tests (if required)
• Transportation for the bridal party to the ceremony and reception
  

Who Pays: The Bride’s Parents

• The bride’s dress
• Bridal accessories
• Venue expenses (the ceremony site, reception location, floral and decor, rentals, music and entertainment, catering, etc.)
• The wedding cake and the groom’s cake
• Wedding stationary (save the date’s, announcements, invitations, etc.)
• The bridal bouquet and the bridesmaid’s bouquets
• The bridesmaid luncheon/tea

Who Pays: The Groom’s Parents

• The rehearsal dinner
• The honeymoon (if not handled by the couple)
  

Who Pays: The Wedding Party

• Formalwear and bridesmaid dress
• Travel accommodations
• Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties
• Showers