The BIG question, “Will you marry me?” is the most exciting question you will ever be asked by your one and only. When I heard these words from Kevin on top of Haleakala Crater in Maui, Hawaii at sunrise, I was ecstatic, full of joy and jubilation! I said yes, and we spent the rest of the morning celebrating in the old surfer town of Paia, eating the famous pistachio pancakes from Charley’s before heading back to drink champagne by a private pool with an ocean view. It was simply wonderful. You know what isn’t as wonderful? Hearing the second BIG question that is asked, “Who is going to pay for what?” That question is not very fun to hear and not very fun to answer.
Who pays for what in a wedding budget? Here are 3 questions to get you started:
- Are you and your partner willing and able to budget part of your income and savings for your wedding? Having an open and honest discussion about what each of you feels comfortable spending on the wedding will help set your budget and give you the proper knowledge about what type of wedding fits within that budget. Having a number in mind before having a conversation with parents also makes that conversation easier and could make parents feel at ease and not as financially burdened when the topic arises.
- What do your parent’s financial picture look like? This knowledge will give you an idea about if your parents will be able to participate in wedding expenses. Discuss with your partner if you each feel comfortable enough to have this conversation, who will be initiating the conversation, and how to do so in a polite manner.
- Do you and your partner want to follow traditional or modern wedding standards? When your parents got married, typically most of the wedding expenses were covered by the bride’s family. This is not the standard anymore. Today, more couples hold a modern view of weddings and expenses. Both parents, and oftentimes the couple themselves, bring a number to the table to complete their full wedding budget. Many couples view weddings differently now than “back in the day”! They register for a honeymoon, have a small destination wedding, ask a friend to take pictures, or celebrate their marriage with a Sunday brunch instead of a plated dinner. The options are endless! Take a look at an official “Who-Pays-For-What” guide to financing your wedding here for more ideas on how to finance your wedding!
It’s a goal of both Kevin and mine to cut back on wedding expenses to save for future children, a new home, and retirement, so we would love to hear your thoughts on the (2nd) BIG question! If married, what advice can you give to engaged couples? If not, how do you hope to tackle this question of “Who pays for what?” when it’s time?
Written by Kendall Jackson
This blog post is from the Author's perspective and doesn't speak for brightpeak financial. Contact brightpeak if you want to know more about brightpeak products, and keep in mind that they are not available in all states and there are some limitations (some exclusions and restrictions may apply).
