What Are Grooms’ Parents Supposed to Pay for? 15 Helpful Ideas for Wedding Expenses
Planning a wedding always seems to spark questions about who pays for what. When it comes to your groom’s family, knowing their traditional financial roles can make things a lot smoother.
The groom’s parents are usually responsible for certain key expenses that support the wedding and related events. Knowing what these costs include can help you organize your budget and set clear expectations.
1) Rehearsal dinner expenses
Most of the time, the groom’s parents take care of the rehearsal dinner. This event happens the night before the wedding and helps both families get comfortable with the ceremony flow.
Hosting this dinner is a way to thank everyone involved and lets everyone relax before the big day. If you want more info, check out this guide on what the groom’s family usually pays for.
2) Honeymoon contribution
You might get asked to help with some honeymoon costs. This could mean pitching in for travel, hotels, or activities.
Traditionally, the groom’s parents paid for the honeymoon, but couples often split the cost now. Chat early with your family to figure out what works for everyone.
3) Wedding officiant fee
The groom’s parents often pick up the tab for the wedding officiant. This covers the person who leads the ceremony and makes the marriage official.
It’s smart to talk with everyone so the officiant’s fee fits your plans. For more details, see what the groom’s parents typically pay for at The Bridal Tip.
4) Boutonnieres and corsages
Groom’s parents usually handle boutonnières for the groom, groomsmen, fathers, and grandfathers. Corsages are for moms and grandmothers on both sides.
These small touches help everyone feel special. If you want more info, here’s a guide on wedding corsages and boutonnieres.
5) Bride’s bouquet
The groom’s parents often pay for the bride’s bouquet. This is the floral arrangement the bride carries down the aisle.
It’s a sweet way to show support for the bride and add beauty to the day.
6) Alcohol for reception
Traditionally, the groom’s parents pay for the alcohol at the wedding reception. This could mean beer, wine, or a full open bar.
Don’t feel pressured to cover this if it’s not comfortable. Every family works out what feels right for them.
7) Groomsmen lodging
You might be expected to pay for your groomsmen’s lodging, especially if they’re coming from out of town. Usually, this means booking hotel rooms or other places to stay.
Some couples split the expense or skip it, but the groom’s family often handles it. It’s a nice gesture of hospitality.
8) Groom’s attire
The groom’s parents usually pay for the groom’s outfit. That means his suit or tux and any accessories.
They’ll also cover alterations to make sure everything fits right. Helping with attire just makes sense—everyone wants the groom to look sharp.
9) Hosting the engagement party
If you’re the groom’s parents, you might host the engagement party. The bride’s family often plans it, but it’s not unusual for the groom’s parents to host or co-host.
You’ll handle the costs for the venue, food, and drinks. It’s a great way to bring everyone together. For more info, check this guide on groom’s family party responsibilities.
10) Transportation for groom’s family
You’re typically expected to cover transportation for your family on the wedding day. This could mean rides for parents, siblings, and close relatives.
Sometimes, you’ll arrange transportation for the wedding party or shuttle guests. Handling these details helps everyone get where they need to be. For more info, see this guide on groom’s parents wedding expenses.
11) Wedding day gifts for couple
It’s thoughtful to give the couple a special gift on their wedding day. This gesture shows your appreciation and support.
Personalized keepsakes or meaningful items are always a hit. For ideas, check out what others suggest about wedding day gifts for parents.
12) Photographer payment contribution
You might get asked to help pay for the wedding photographer. This covers photos of the ceremony and reception.
Sometimes, families split the cost. If you’re unsure, talk with the couple about what you can contribute.
13) Reception venue rental share
The groom’s parents sometimes help pay for the reception venue. This could mean covering part of the rental or specific charges.
Chipping in here can really help lighten the financial burden. For more details, check groom’s parents wedding expenses.
14) Music or DJ fee support
The groom’s parents often help cover the cost of hiring a band or DJ. Music keeps the party going and the atmosphere lively.
It’s a fun way to support the celebration. You can find more details about this on what the groom’s family traditionally pays for.
15) Invitation printing costs
When it comes to invitations, the bride’s family usually picks up the main expenses.
But honestly, the groom’s parents often help out too—especially if you want to split things up a bit.
You might chip in for save-the-dates or RSVP cards.
It’s a thoughtful way to support your kid without having to take on everything.
