Traditionally, a bride's family has been responsible for paying for the majority of the wedding costs. However, as customs and traditions have evolved over the years, so have the rules about who pays for what. Today, couples are finding a variety of different ways to split the budget for their wedding. It is not uncommon now for couples to pay for all or part of the wedding costs or for many people to contribute to the budget, including both sets of parents, grandparents, or other close family and friends.

The following list consists of the traditional way that wedding costs have been divided, but it is only a guide. As a bride or groom, it is important to discuss your wedding budget with everyone involved and to find out what the expectations and contributions will be. In the end, it is important to find the way to divide your wedding expenses that works best for you.

• Wedding Dress, headpiece, and accessories
• Rental of the ceremony site
• Rental of reception site
• Reception food and drink
• Flowers for the ceremony and reception
• Groom's wedding ring
• Invitations and announcements
• Gift for the groom
• Gifts for the bridesmaids
• Bridal consultant (if applicable)

• Bride's engagement and wedding rings
• Gift for the bride
• Rental of formal wear
• Marriage license
• Officiant's fee
• Boutonnieres for men in the wedding party
• Bride's bouquet

• Their wedding attire
• Accessories to go with the attire (shoes, headpieces)
• Gift for the bride and groom
• Transportation to the city (if out-of-town)