Communication, cooperation, and realistic expectations are essential when you draw up your wedding bud-get. The bride’s family has traditionally paid all wedding expenses, but it is now appropriate for families to share costs.

When you draw up the budget, be communicative, realistic, and cooperative. If the bride’s family cannot bear the bill, the groom’s parents may be willing to share a portion of the financial responsibility. There are also expenses that the bride and groom might assume, further relieving financial pressure. Following is the usual division of nuptial expenses. However, there are times when practicality must reign. Tradition frequently bows to whoever is willing and able to pay the bill:

Bride

Wedding gift for groom
Wedding ring for groom
Gifts for attendants
Personal stationery
Lodging for out-of-town attendants
Physical examination
Luncheon for bridesmaids

Bride’s Family

The Reception
Wedding gift for newlyweds
Bride’s wedding attire and trousseau
Invitations, announcements, and postage
Engagement and wedding photographs
Rental of wedding site
Organist, soloist, and sexton fees
Aisle carpets and/or canopy, and any decorating costs
Bridesmaids’ bouquets
Flowers for reception
Transportation for bridal party to ceremony and reception
Security and insurance for gifts (optional)

Groom

Wedding gift for bride
Wedding ring for bride
Marriage license
Gifts for attendants
Bridal bouquet and going away corsage
Boutonnieres for all men in wedding party
Mothers’ corsages
Physical examination
Gloves, ties, or ascots for attendants
Lodging for out-of-town attendants
Fee for clergy or judge
Honeymoon
Bachelor’s dinner (optional:
may be assumed by bestman and ushers)

Groom’s Family

Wedding gift for newlyweds
Rehearsal dinner (optional)
Their own expenses for clothing, travel