My Credit Card or Yours - Who Pays for the Wedding?

Times have changed since the bride's family traditionally undertook most of the financial burden of a wedding, while the groom and family were only responsible for a few items. Some couples still follow the traditional pattern of financial responsibility, but increasingly, the bride and groom themselves are helping foot the bill, or the groom's family is involved in a more equitable arrangement, and many other unique and interesting variations are used to fit individual circumstances.

For example, destination weddings, which prior to timely air travel were almost impossible to plan, have introduced a whole new set of complications into the picture as to who should be responsible for which expenses. Since the guest list is usually very limited, but the cost of gathering everyone together at the location of the ceremony can be quite expensive, creative solutions sometimes must be found to ensure that both sides are happy with the outcome.

What is considered correct also tends to vary from region to region and can be affected by religious or other cultural traditions. For example, in some places, the bride's family is responsible for transportation of the bridal party, while in other parts of the country, the groom usually takes care of this item.

If you do choose to follow the more traditional route, the following is a breakdown of the usual time-honored financial responsibilities surrounding a wedding. Flexibility in this area is becoming much more common, however. As well, with many marriages in this day and age being the second time down the aisle for the bride and/or the groom, second marriage expenses are often handled entirely by the bride and groom themselves.

The following is a listing of the traditional financial responsibilities for the wedding ceremony and reception that most couples use as a beginning base:

Attendants (Bridesmaids and Groomsmen)