Traditionally, the bride's family has been responsible for most of the wedding expenses. But with modern couples often paying for their own wedding, it's important to understand who is expected to pay for what. From the engagement party to the rehearsal dinner, this guide will help you decide who pays for what in your wedding budget. Traditionally, the bride's parents are responsible for the rental rates associated with the ceremony and reception locations. This includes any fees associated with the venue, as well as vendors and products related to the day.
The groom's family is typically responsible for corsages and boutonnieres for immediate family members, as well as accommodation for the groom's attendants (if you have offered to help pay for this expense) and sometimes the costs of the rehearsal dinner. The bride's family is also traditionally expected to pay for the engagement party. However, any member of the family or friend can organize this event. It is important to note that whether or not a couple has lived together before marriage has no bearing on who pays for the wedding. It is best to find out early on whether parents can contribute to wedding expenses and, if so, how much they're comfortable spending. This way you'll have a better idea of what your budget is and you can plan accordingly.
Any financial aid they receive from their parents is a gift, and the amount they receive depends on their parents' financial situation. When talking about budget with both sets of parents and receiving their financial contributions for the wedding, it is important not to share what each parent is willing or able to spend with the other group of parents. In terms of bridesmaids' dresses, these are usually paid for by each bridesmaid. The bride and her maids usually choose these together. It is important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to who pays what in a wedding budget. It is ultimately up to you and your loved ones to decide how best to assign responsibilities. According to a recent study by WeddingWire and Grow by Acorns + CNBC, 72% of all couples receive at least some form of financial support to pay for their wedding.
Younger, millennial couples (those born between 1981 and 1999) pay less than 42% of wedding expenses, while parents pay 56%.So whether your parents (or the parents of your future spouse) generously offer to pay for part or all of the wedding, it's helpful to understand who has historically paid for every aspect of the big day. The concept of “tradition” has evolved over the years and it has become commonplace to see both groups of parents, one member of the family on each side, or even just the couple contributing what they can. Ultimately, it is up to you and your loved ones to decide how best to choose who pays what in your wedding budget. Don't feel pressured into spending more than you can - remember George Banks from Father of The Bride? - but do take advantage of any financial support offered by your families.
