Traditionally

Who Pays For What?

Tradition dictates that the bride’s family pays for most of the wedding.
This harkens back to the time of dowries, when marriage meant that the financial burden of supporting a daughter was transferred from father to son-in-law. It was thought, what was one day of expenses compared to a lifetime of freedom.

Bride and her family traditionally pay for: -
· Announcements
· Invitations and bride’s stationary
· Postage
· All ceremony costs except officiant’s fee
· All reception costs Bride’s attire
· Groom’s ring
· Flowers for bride, bridesmaids, flower girls and ring bearers
· Gifts for attendants
· Bride’s trousseau gift for groom

Groom and his family traditionally pay for: -
· Engagement and bride’s wedding ring
· Groom’s attire
· Officiant’s fee
· Marriage license
· Rehearsal dinner
· Gifts for attendants
· Boutonnieres
· Corsages for both mothers
· Honeymoon
· Gift for bride.

Traditional / Formal Wedding

A formal wedding ceremony will follow traditionally and religious guidelines. The ceremony often involves a place of worship and prescribed marriage rites. A full meal is generally served at a large reception.

Time of day
The ceremony is held at midmorning to evening.

Bride’s dress
Long, white or cream gown, full or half train and veil.

Bridesmaids dress
Long, coordinated with bride / to the bride’s taste / in line with colour theme.

Groom’s , best man and ushers’ attire
Full suit or tuxedo in line with colour theme.

Attendants of the wedding party
Matron of honour, maid of honour, four or more bridesmaids, best man, one usher for every fifty guests, page boy, flower girls and ring bearer.

Ceremony Location
Religious institution or large club, garden or outdoor arena.


Reception location
Club, hotel, harden or large home.

Number of guests
Two hundred or more.

Food
Hot sit-down meal and late evening buffet.

Beverages
Champagne and full bar.

Invitations
Engraved.

Decorations and accessories
Elaborate.

Music
Soloist at ceremony. Live band or DJ for dancing at reception.