ForeverWed receives questions on a weekly basis about who is responsible financially for different parts of the wedding. Many of the answers that we've seen seem even more confusing.  With that in mind, we've posted our information here for you on who is responsible for what.  Mind you, this is a general list and that many times many families incur more, less, or all of the list as they are financially able.

Expenses traditionally paid for by the bride--

~the groom's ring (if a double ring ceremony)

~gifts for the groom and bridesmaids

~stationery for thank you notes and other correspondence

~the guest book

~the gift book (if you will have one)

~and in contemporary weddings, sometimes her gown/accessories

Expenses traditionally paid for by the bride's parents--

~the bride's wedding attire (sometimes now paid for by the bride)

~all invitations, announcements, enclosures and mailing expenses

~all flowers (except as mentioned below in the groom's expenses)

~all expenses for the ceremony (except as mentioned)

~all expenses for the reception (except as mentioned)

~all catering (cake, refreshments, beverages) and entertainment

~all photography

~their own attire, accommodations, and travel expenses (if any)

~a gift for the couple

~bridal consultant fees, if used

~sometimes, the attendants' gowns

~accommodations for out-of-town attendants

Expenses traditionally paid for by the groom--

~the engagement ring

~the wedding ring

~the honeymoon

~the marriage license

~his own attire

~hotel accommodations for out of town groomsmen

~the minister's fee

~gifts for bride and groomsmen and ushers

~and sometimes, the bride's bouquet, mothers' corsages, and men's

boutonnieres (this is less common now, however)

Expenses traditionally paid for by the groom's parents--

~their own wedding attire

~their own traveling expenses and accommodations

~accommodations for the groomsmen if the groom does not pay for it

~a gift for the bride and groom

~and more recently, the rehearsal dinner

They may also contribute in other ways, if they choose to, and

others agree.