Traditionally, the bride's family pays for the majority of the wedding expenses. This typically includes the wedding planner, invitations, the bride’s dress, the ceremony and reception venue, flowers, photography, music, the wedding cake, and transportation and accommodations for the bridesmaids
. The bride herself usually covers the cost of the groom’s wedding band, her own hair and makeup, and gifts for the wedding party
. The groom’s family traditionally pays for the rehearsal dinner, including venue, food, drinks, and entertainment, as well as the officiant’s fee, marriage license, and sometimes the honeymoon
. The groom is generally responsible for purchasing the bride’s engagement ring and wedding band, his own attire, and gifts for the bride, groomsmen, and parents
. While these roles reflect traditional etiquette, many modern couples and families adapt or share costs differently based on their circumstances, preferences, and financial situations
. The traditional division is often used as a starting point but is not a strict rule. In summary:
- Bride’s family: Most wedding costs (venue, dress, planner, flowers, photography, cake)
- Groom’s family: Rehearsal dinner, officiant, marriage license, honeymoon
- Bride: Groom’s wedding band, hair/makeup, gifts
- Groom: Bride’s engagement and wedding rings, his attire, gifts
This traditional breakdown stems from historical customs such as dowries and social expectations but has evolved significantly in contemporary weddings
