Money Manners: 'Is the bride's family still expected to pay the bill?'

Money Manners is Honey Money's weekly column dealing with money etiquette matters that can be the cause of many an awkward encounter.

Submit your Money Manners questions to Jo Abi at jabi@nine.com.au

This week's question comes via a 9honey reader who has an important question about wedding costs.

Money Manners: 'Is the bride's family still expected to pay the wedding bill?'

Is the bride's family still expected to pay for a wedding? I just got engaged, and my mum and I aren't sure how it is meant to work.

I have some friends whose families have paid for theirs but others have split the cost between families and the couple.

Are there rules we should be following? Or how do we even approach the conversation? Do we bring it up?

Advice: 'More of a tradition than a rule'

Author and 'Money Queen' Amanda Frances was recently engaged and has perfect advice for this one. She describes the idea that a bride's family pay for the wedding as "more of a tradition than a rule in this day and age".

"Every couple and family approaches it differently," she tells 9honey.

WATCH: Talking Honey: Love and Money: Should couples combine finances?

"Some couples cover the costs themselves, some split it with their families, and others find creative solutions."

She has found "the older and more financially independent a couple is, the more likely they are to cover expenses themselves, with their parents contributing where they can".

"The key here is open communication," Frances explains.

"Start by discussing the budget with your fiancé. Find out what he has in mind, and share what you're comfortable with and expecting. This helps set realistic expectations without assumptions."

From there she suggests he speak with his family and you speak with yours.

"Once you liaise with your families, you'll gain a clearer understanding of everyone's contributions and the next steps," she says.

"Keeping the conversation open and pressure-free is the best way to ensure everyone is on the same page."

She also suggests:

• Setting priorities, creating a financial plan, and staying on track.
• The top wedding trends for 2025 and how to incorporate them on any budget.
• Mindset tips for managing finances during the wedding-planning process.
• Smart strategies for cutting costs without compromising your vision.

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice. The information has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information on this website you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs.

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