Planning a traditional wedding in Nashville or anywhere in Tennessee is a dream come true for many couples. The lush landscapes, charming venues, and southern hospitality create the perfect backdrop for a truly magical day. However, before you dive into planning your dream wedding, it’s essential to understand who by tradition pays for what. In this guide, we’ll break down the financial responsibilities of the bride’s family, the groom’s family, the bride, and the groom. So, whether you’re in need of a Nashville wedding photographer or exploring Middle Tennessee wedding options, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect.

The Bride’s Family:

Engagement Party: Traditionally, the bride’s family hosts the engagement party. It’s a chance to celebrate the couple’s commitment and kick off the wedding festivities.

Wedding Dress & Accessories: The bride’s family often covers the cost of her wedding dress, including the veil and any accessories. After all, she should feel like a princess on her special day.

Photography and Videography: Capturing precious moments requires an expert eye. The bride’s family commonly pays for high-end wedding photography in Tennessee to ensure every smile, tear, and laugh is preserved forever.

Reception Venue: Typically, the bride’s family pays for the reception venue, ensuring the couple has a stunning backdrop for their celebration.

Wedding Cake: The delicious wedding cake often falls under the bride’s family’s financial responsibility.

The Groom’s Family:

Honeymoon: The groom’s family traditionally funds the honeymoon, sending the newlyweds off to a romantic destination to start their life together.

Rehearsal Dinner: Hosting the rehearsal dinner is a gesture of goodwill from the groom’s family, providing a chance for both sides to bond before the big day.

DJ or Band: Entertainment expenses, such as hiring a DJ or band, often come from the groom’s family’s budget.

Alcohol for the Reception: Keeping the celebration spirits high, the groom’s family typically covers the cost of alcohol for the wedding reception.

The Bride:

Groom’s Traditional Wedding Band: It’s a thoughtful gesture for the bride to cover the cost of the groom’s wedding band, symbolizing their commitment.

Hair and Makeup: The bride usually pays for her hair and makeup, ensuring she looks radiant on her special day.

Wedding Gifts: The bride also typically gifts her bridesmaids, groom, and parents as a token of appreciation for their support.

The Groom:

Engagement Ring & Bride’s Wedding Band: The groom traditionally buys the engagement ring and the bride’s wedding band.

Groom’s Attire: The groom is responsible for purchasing his wedding attire.

Wedding Gifts: The groom often gifts his groomsmen and the bride to show his gratitude.

Honeymoon (if not covered by the groom’s family): If the groom’s family doesn’t cover the honeymoon, the groom may take on this expense.

Now, as you plan your upscale Tennessee wedding, keep in mind that these traditions can be flexible. Couples today often customize their financial arrangements to suit their preferences. Communication is key when deciding who pays for what.

Planning your dream traditional wedding in Nashville or Middle Tennessee? Remember that hiring the right wedding photographer is crucial for preserving your special day. Consider Diana Marie Photography, a top Nashville wedding photographer, known for capturing exclusive and elegant moments. Contact me today to discuss your luxury wedding photography needs and let us turn your dream wedding into a cherished reality.