Wedding Expense Etiquette — Who Pays for What

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Weddings are full of traditions. Brides wear the color white, carry something borrowed and split the budget between their families and future in-laws. Your parents and your fiance’s parents will likely want to help by taking part in this tradition. This guide explains everything you need to know about wedding expense etiquette so you understand exactly who pays for what part of your big day.1. Your Dress and VeilAfter showing off your gorgeous engagement ring, you’re excited to try on wedding dresses. Before scheduling any appointments, sit down with your family to discuss the budget. The bride’s family normally pays for the dress, veil and any accessories you want to wear down the aisle because it’s something parents look forward to for so many years.2. Your Rehearsal DinnerEveryone who participates in your ceremony will arrive at your venue, practice how it will go and then meet for dinner the night before your wedding. The groom’s family typically covers dining expenses, which average around $1,330 for the meal if you include large bridal or groom parties. Meet with your future in-laws to narrow down your options for catering, in-house dining or delivery based on what they can cover.3. Floral Arrangements and BouquetsYour fiance may not be interested in flower arrangements, but the groom’s family usually pays for all things floral. Your wedding date can be the inspiration for your budget, since in-season flowers are typically more budget-friendly and widely available than flowers grown in a greenhouse or shipped from out of town. Match them to your budget and have fun daydreaming about the many ways to use them as decor.4. Your Post-Ceremony ReceptionYour reception is the celebratory meal everyone looks forward to, so catering and bartender services for wedding receptions can become the most expensive parts of weddings. The bride’s family has always covered these costs, but you may feel inclined to split them with your family. Discuss these costs well in advance of your wedding day so you can secure the best reception vendors while their calendar remains open.5. Your Photographer and VideographerThe bride’s family also pays for any photographers or videographers that will capture your big day on camera. You don’t need to hire one or the other if you’re working with a tight budget, but traditionally your parents would offer to pay for these services.Get a few quotes from industry professionals to compare prices and work with your parents on what they’re able to afford. Photographers alone can charge up to $2,556 on average. The numbers may be a shock, but if you work together with your parents, you’ll figure out how to include these services in both of your budgets.6. All Honeymoon ExpensesAfter a man marries his bride, he traditionally becomes the head of the household. That way of thinking made it logical for the groom to pay for all of the honeymoon expenses. He was supposed to treat his wife to their first adventure together by taking charge of the budget, but you can split costs if it makes you more comfortable.Review Wedding Expense EtiquetteNow that you know more about wedding expense etiquette, talk with every party involved to find the best solutions for your big day. You don’t have to pay for everything on your own. Your loved ones will want to celebrate this new chapter of your life by pitching in to make your wedding dreams come true.Written by: Cora Gold