Your budget is probably the biggest concern (and main matter on your mind, besides the dress, of course) when it comes to your wedding. But there’s no need to lose sleep over number crunching. Here are some tips and tricks to help you with the proper etiquette when it comes to expenses on your big day.
Who Pays?
There was a time when it was up to the bride’s parents to foot the entire bill for the wedding, but nowadays this is pretty unusual. If your parents do pay, the cost is usually split with the groom's family. Even more common is you and your mister financing the wedding yourselves. Here are some guidelines for the division of costs if you and your groom are paying.
Bride’s Expenses:
- Bridal or wedding consultant services
- Invitations and announcements
- Wedding gown and accessories
- Flowers
- Reception expenses
Groom’s Expenses:
- Bride’s engagement and wedding rings
- Suits or rentals for the groomsmen
- Officiant’s fee
- Marriage licence
- Honeymoon expenses
Bridal Party Expenses
Are you confused about how much you have to pay for when it comes to your bridesmaids? Here’s what you’re responsible for:
- Bridesmaids’ accommodations
- Bridesmaids’ bouquets
- Transportation to and from the ceremony and reception
You don’t have to pay for your bridesmaids’ apparel, but it is a nice gesture. It’s also a good idea to either put on a luncheon for your girls, or buy each of them a gift to thank them for their help in the wedding. After all, it wouldn’t be the same without them!
Tipping Etiquette
It’s good to be aware of the etiquette surrounding tipping for a wedding when budgeting for your big day. You should set aside an extra 15% of the total fees for the following services:
- Valet parking
- Coat check
- Bathroom attendants
- Limo and delivery truck drivers
- Wait staff
- Bartenders
- Table captains
Let everyone who is billing you know that you’ll include the tip when you pay the bill so that guests aren’t asked for tips. It’s a little tasteless for coat check attendants, for example, to have a tip dish sitting out. You don’t want your friends and family to feel pressured to tip anyone!
Out-of-Towner Accommodations
You don’t have to pay for out-of-towners’ lodgings. It’s their decision whether or not to attend the wedding, so you are not obligated to pay for their accommodations unless they are a part of the bridal party (i.e. bridesmaids, groomsmen, officiant, etc.).
Making Payments
Service providers like caterers and photographers will often allow you to create a plan to pay off your bill in monthly payments. If you and your mister are paying for the festivities yourselves, this is a good way to avoid feeling the economic pinch right after your wedding. The service will usually require a deposit, anywhere between 10% and 20% of the bill, and require monthly payments. You might be able to negotiate your monthly payments if you’re on a tight budget. Remember: it’s important to have a written agreement between you and the business providing the service, and also to take note of any interest they may charge.
For more tips and advice on paying for your big day, check out our article For Love or Money.
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