Just starting to make your wedding budget? You’re in the right place. If you and your partner are planning to divide wedding expenses between you and your parents, you might be wondering exactly how much (and for what) everyone should chip in. While there are traditional guidelines surrounding who pays for what, you’re welcome to split financial responsibilities however works best.
Today, on average, the bride’s parents contribute 45 percent to the overall wedding budget and the groom’s parents contribute 13 percent. But what’s the couple expected to pay for? The to-be-weds often cover several details: their engagement ring(s), wedding bands, save-the-dates, honor attendant and wedding party gifts, gifts for each other, bridesmaid hair and makeup (if they’re hiring pros), wedding party’s getting-ready outfits, welcome bags, thank-you cards and the honeymoon (although sometimes parents or friends chip in as a gift to the newlyweds).
To see how closely today’s couples are sticking to the above, read 13 wedding details most commonly financed by the couple, according to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study.
1. Rings and wedding bands: 78 percent
2. Bridesmaid gifts: 68 percent
3. Thank-you cards: 68 percent
4. Groomsmen gift: 64 percent
5. Invitations: 58 percent
6. Hairstylist: 52 percent
7. Save-the-dates: 51 percent
8. Photographer: 51 percent
9. Makeup artist: 48 percent
10. Wedding day attire: 42 percent
11. Wedding day beauty: 42 percent
12. Reception table, centerpieces or décor: 42 percent
13. Favors: 40 percent
