Traditionally, the responsibility for paying for wedding expenses has fallen on the bride and her family. However, in modern times, the financial burden is often shared among both families or even taken on solely by the couple themselves. It really depends on the specific circumstances and the preferences of those involved.
When it comes to the bride’s attire, it is typically expected that she and her family will cover the costs. This includes the wedding dress, accessories, and any alterations that may be needed. However, it is not uncommon for the groom to contribute towards the bride’s attire as well, especially if he wishes to cover the cost of her dream dress or if they have decided to split the overall wedding budget.
Floral arrangements are another expense that is traditionally taken care of by the bride and her family. This includes the bridal bouquet, bridesmaids’ bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and any other floral decorations for the ceremony and reception. However, as with other expenses, it is becoming more common for couples to split the cost or for the groom’s family to contribute.
Transportation on the wedding day is usually arranged and paid for by the bride and her family. This includes transportation for the bridal party, as well as any special transportation needs for the couple themselves. For example, if they are planning to arrive or depart in a fancy car or horse-drawn carriage, the cost would typically fall on the bride’s side.
Photo and video fees are typically covered by the couple themselves. Hiring a professional photographer and videographer to capture the special moments of the day can be quite expensive, so it is common for the couple to budget for these expenses and pay for them directly.
If the officiant is coming from out of town, it is customary for the couple to cover their travel and lodging expenses. This is a way to show appreciation for their presence and to ensure that they are comfortable during their stay. It is worth noting that some religious officiants may not accept payment for their services, in which case it would be customary to offer a gift instead.
Lodging for the bridesmaids is not always expected to be covered by the bride or her family. However, if the bride wants to go above and beyond to show her appreciation for her bridesmaids’ support and involvement, she may choose to cover their lodging expenses. This is not a requirement, but rather a gesture of gratitude.
While it is traditional for the bride and her family to bear the majority of wedding expenses, the financial responsibilities can vary depending on the preferences and circumstances of the couple and their families. It is important for couples to have open and honest conversations about their expectations and to come to a mutual agreement on how to handle the financial aspects of their wedding.