Who Pays?
Most respected wedding experts agree that there are no hard and fast rules on who pays for the wedding expenses. At one time it was likely that the parents of the bride would pay for most if not the entire wedding, but with the costs of today’s ceremonies and receptions, the costs are likely to be shared. Today’s guidelines offer several options. It may be as simple as whoever is financially able and/or most willing to pay the expenses or whoever is inviting the most guests. Whatever arrangement the bride and groom reach, discussing the options with both families early in the planning process is a must.
Here are some ways that creative couples have found to fund their wedding celebrations:
- If the couple is financially secure – both are working – they may opt to pay for the entire wedding themselves.
- Some families are more comfortable splitting the expenses with 1/2 being paid by each – the bride’s family and the groom’s family.
- A workable solution can be to fund the wedding three ways – 1/3 bride’s family,1/3 groom’s family and 1/3 the couple themselves.
- Some families would prefer to fund specific activities or events. Bride’s family may cover the reception food and the groom’s family the reception beverages and decorations. Or the bride’s family covers the ceremony costs, both families split the reception costs and the groom’s family covers the rehearsal dinner. The bridal pair covers photographs, the music at church and reception and the cake. The mix is endless.
- A unique take on sharing the reception costs happens when families agree to pay for their own guests. Some couples agree on a per person guest cost and then assign that amount to each guest each family invites.
Whatever method you choose, it is important to remember that civility, respect and affection govern
those choices. This wedding is about creating a new family unit. The love and support of the two families
of the couple are a wonderful support for this celebration.
For more ideas on how to handle wedding budget issues, make an appointment to talk with a wedding consultant.