Traditionally, wedding expenses have been divided according to certain customs, with the bride’s family covering most costs and the groom’s family paying for specific elements. These traditions have evolved significantly, and many modern couples and their families choose to divide expenses in different ways that best suit their particular situations.
Still, if you’re interested in the traditional breakdown, the groom’s family traditionally pays for the following:
- The marriage license and officiant’s fee: The groom’s family may cover the cost of the marriage license and the officiant’s fee.
- The rehearsal dinner: The groom’s family typically hosts and pays for the rehearsal dinner, including the venue, food, drinks, and any entertainment.
- The bride’s bouquet and going-away corsage, boutonnieres, and corsages for mothers and grandmothers: These are often covered by the groom’s family.
- The honeymoon: Traditionally, the groom and his family are responsible for planning and paying for the honeymoon.
- Wedding rings: The groom’s family may also purchase the bride’s and groom’s wedding rings.
- Groom’s attire: The groom’s family traditionally pays for the groom’s wedding attire.
- Gifts for the groom’s attendants: The groom or his family may purchase gifts for his groomsmen.
These are just traditions and not strict rules. Nowadays, it’s common for the bride and groom to share wedding costs or for each family to contribute what they can. Sometimes, the couple may choose to pay for the wedding themselves. Communicating openly about expenses and finding a solution for everyone involved.