Who Pays For What?

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As you begin planning your kentucky wedding, you need to determine your budget. Be realistic in your expectations of spending. Work closely with both families to determine what financial obligations each person is willing to commit for your event. Today, many couples opt to pay for their own wedding, but the majority of engaged couples still follow tradition. Whatever your situation, remember to be courteous and gracious for anything you receive.

The following information reflects the traditional breakdown of expenses. Again, each wedding is unique, and you can adapt the costs to your own personal preferences.

The Bride and her Side

Beauty (hair, make-up, nails, spa, etc.)
Bride's wedding attire
Bridesmaid's luncheon, gifts and bouquets
Ceremony location fees
Ceremony and reception musicians
Flowers and décor
Invitations, announcements, calligraphy and postage
Personal stationery (informals, thank you notes, wedding programs and favors)
Photographer
Reception costs including rental fees, food, taxes, gratuities, rentals and tips.
Transportation costs for wedding party, parents and bride and groom from ceremony location to reception.
Videographer
Wedding cake
Wedding consultant fees
Wedding gift for the groom
Wedding gown and accessories
Wedding ring for groom

The Groom and his side

Alcohol at reception
Bride's bouquet, mother's flowers and boutonnières for groom, groomsmen, ushers and ring bearer
Engagement and wedding ring for bride
Fees for shipping gifts to the couples new home
Gifts for his attendants
Groom's wedding attire
Honeymoon expenses
Marriage License
Officiant's or clergy fees or gratuity
Rehearsal dinner expenses
Transportation arranged for his bride to be taken to the ceremony location on the wedding day. He also arranges and pays for the transportation to take them from reception to hotel or home.
Wedding gift for the bride
Wedding night accommodations

Attendants/Ushers:

Any necessary travel expenses
Wedding attire and accessories
Wedding gift for the newlyweds
It is customary to throw a shower or bachelor party in honor of the bride and groom