How much should the bride's family pay for a wedding?

Short answer

There is no set amount the bride's family should pay. The old rule that they cover everything is no longer expected. Most families now agree a contribution based on their budget, often splitting costs with the couple and the groom's family.

There is no fixed figure or percentage that the bride's family should pay. The tradition that they fund the entire wedding is a relic of the past and does not fit most modern families. In the UK today, wedding costs are usually shared between the couple and both sets of parents, but the exact split varies widely.

Some families follow a rough three-way split: the couple, the bride's family, and the groom's family each cover a third. Others prefer the couple to pay for the ceremony and reception, while parents pay for extras like the dress, the flowers, or the honeymoon. Many couples simply ask both families for a fixed contribution and then budget around that total.

The key is to agree a figure that feels generous but not stressful. No family should stretch themselves into debt for a wedding. If the bride's family can only offer a small amount, or nothing at all, that is perfectly acceptable. The couple can adjust their plans accordingly. What matters is that everyone is clear about the arrangement before bookings are made.