How to Wed - Who pays for what?

One of the common questions I get all the time is who pays for what?; this is an understatement nowadays. A lot of things have changed with time; more and more couples are taking care of all the expenses of their wedding instead of having their parents pay for it all. But, every once in a while I get a couple whose parent's are more than delightful to pick up the wedding bill.

Here's a list that I'm sure will help you get in track with all the wedding expenses and who pays for what?:

Bride

• Groom's wedding gift


• Bridesmaids' gifts

Bride's Family

• Invitations


• Bride's gown, veil and accessories


• Bridesmaids' luncheon


• Lodging for out-of-town bridesmaids


• Wedding site


• Fees for the organist, soloist, etc...


• Flowers for the church


• Bridesmaids' bouquets


• Reception expenses (including rental fee, catering, wedding cake,bar, music, flowers, decorations and gratuities)


• Engagement & Wedding portraits


• Wedding & Reception photography


• Transportation for the bridal party on the wedding day

Bridesmaids

• Their own gowns and accessories (many brides provide the accessories)


• Their own travel expenses


• Wedding gift for the bride and groom


• Lodging


• Bridal Shower and/or Bachellorette Party

Groom

• Bride's engagement ring and wedding rings


• Bride's wedding gift


• Gifts for Bestman and Groomsmen


• His own attire


• Marriage License


• Clergy or judge's fee


• Bride's bouquet and her going away flowers


• Flowers for the mothers and grandmothers


• Boutonnieres for all men in the wedding party


• Groomsmen's gloves, ties and ascots (if not part of the rental)


• The honeymoon

Groom's Family

• Their own travel and lodging


• Lodging for out-of-town groomsmen (if necessary)


• Wedding gift for the bride and groom


• Rehearsal Dinner

Best man/Groomsmen

• Their own wedding attire


• Their own travel expenses


• wedding gift for the bride and groom


• Lodging


• Bachelor party

Photo credit: Kfo-tography