When it comes to planning your wedding one of the major causes of stress and potential conflict will be determining who pays for the various costs involved. There are, of course, no hard and fast rules and nowadays it is often the case that couples foot the bill for some if not most of the costs. There are, however, traditional roles in regards to paying wedding expenses.

The bride usually pays for:

* the groom's ring;
* any accommodation for her bridesmaids that may be visiting from interstate or overseas; and
* any wedding gifts for her bridesmaids and future husband.

The bridesmaids and Maid of Honour traditionally pay for:

* the bridal shower;
* the hens night; and
* their own clothing and accessories.

The groom usually pays for:

* the engagement and wedding rings;
* license fees and any legal costs;
* church and/or minister/celebrant fees;
* any accommodation for his groomsman that may be visiting from interstate or overseas;
* any wedding gifts for his groomsman and future wife; and
* the honeymoon.

The groomsman typically cover the cost of:

* the bucks night
* their own suits/formalwear

The parents of the groom are usually responsible for:

* rehearsal dinners and group breakfasts, brunches or lunches the day after the wedding reception.

The parents of the groom will usually pay for everything else, including all reception costs such as venue and equipment hire, food, beverages, music/entertainment, flowers and decorations.

Ultimately who pays for what is up for negotiation and subject to the financial wherewithal of those involved.


Earl Cole

Singer, entertainer, DJ & MC

www.earlcolemusic.com