Traditionally it is the bride’s family who pays for the majority of the wedding, however, nowadays things have changed and payment is left to the discretion of the couple and their families. Normally the wedding attire for the bride is paid for by the bride’s family and the groom’s attire is paid for by the groom. It must be decided between the groom and his best man who pays for the best man’s outfit. The cost of hen and stag parties are usually shared out between those who attend.

Below is a checklist of other elements of the day and who traditionally pays for them. Modern weddings are usually a variation on these traditions.

Transportation

To ceremony: all the bride’s family and bridesmaids – Bride’s family
Ceremony to reception: bride and groom – Bride’s family
Decorations for wedding transportation – Bride’s family
To ceremony: groom and best man – Groom
From reception: bride and groom – Groom

Reception

Venue hire and decorations – Bride’s family
Toastmaster – Bride’s family
Wedding cake – Bride’s family
Catering – Bride’s family
Drinks – Bride’s family
Entertainment – Bride’s family

Stationary

Invitations, postage, menus, place names, seating plan chart and order of service – Bride’s family

Honeymoon

Passports and visas, travel and accommodation, groom’s clothes, spending money, travel insurance and inoculations – Groom
Bride’s clothes – Bride

Presents

Presents for bridesmaids, ushers and best man – Groom
Bride’s engagement ring and wedding ring – Groom
Groom’s wedding ring – Bride
Presents for bride and groom’s parents – Bride and Groom

Other

Flowers and photography – Bride’s family
Ceremony – Groom
Engagement party – Bride’s family
Wedding planner fees – Bride’s family
Press announcements for engagement – Bride’s family
Press announcements for wedding – Groom
Overnight accommodation for close family – Bride’s family