Who Pays?
Wedding Money is the essential factor for the big day and a clear budget must be established before proper planning can begin. Nowadays, there is no set etiquette on wedding costs and the old norms aren't always applicable.
Initially, most couples have a discussion with their parents. Traditionally, the bride's family bears the cost, but this is by no means expected today.
Often, the groom's parents will pay for a certain element of the day - e.g. the dress, the wine. Alternatively, they may just write a cheque towards the total cost of the wedding.
Many couples decide to pay for the entire day themselves. This has become more usual as people are marrying later in life when they both enjoy financial independence.
Often, the wedding is paid for from a combination of the above, i.e. both sets of parents and the couple all make a contribution.