What Parts of the Wedding Do the Groom’s Parents Traditionally Pay For?
Traditionally, the groom’s parents are responsible for caring for a few important aspects of the wedding. While modern weddings often see couples and their families contributing to the expenses, knowing the traditional breakdown can still be helpful.
Groom’s Parents’ Responsibilities
- Rehearsal Dinner – One of the primary responsibilities of the groom’s parents is hosting the rehearsal dinner. This event typically takes place the night before the wedding and involves the immediate family members and the wedding party. The rehearsal dinner is a chance for the families to bond, give speeches, and relax before the big day.
- Groom’s Attire – Traditionally, the groom’s parents would pay for the groom’s wedding attire. This includes the suit, tuxedo, traditional outfits, and any required accessories or alterations.
- Marriage License and Officiant – The cost of the marriage license and fees for the officiant, such as a religious leader or a judge, are often taken care of by the groom’s parents.
- Transportation – Another traditional responsibility of the groom’s parents is arranging and covering transportation for the groom and his immediate family. This usually includes transportation to the ceremony venue and any other necessary travel during the wedding day.
What the Groom Typically Pays For
While the groom’s parents traditionally cover certain aspects of the wedding, it’s important to note that in modern times, couples often contribute to the wedding expenses themselves. The groom may also be expected to pay for specific items or services. Here are a few typical responsibilities that fall under the groom’s purview:
- The Bride’s Engagement and Wedding Rings – The groom is traditionally responsible for purchasing his bride’s engagement ring and wedding band.
- Gifts for the Wedding Party – The groom often takes the lead in selecting and purchasing gifts for his groomsmen and best man. These gifts are typically given as a token of appreciation for their involvement in the wedding.
- Honeymoon – Planning and paying for the honeymoon is often a shared responsibility between the couple. The groom may traditionally take the lead in organizing and financing this romantic getaway.
- Groom’s Attendants – While the groom’s parents may take care of some aspects of the groom’s attire, the groom is usually responsible for outfitting his groomsmen and paying for their attire or accessories.
In conclusion, the groom’s parents traditionally play a significant role in the financial aspects of the wedding. However, it’s important to remember that modern weddings often see couples and their families sharing the expenses.
References:
