Who Pays The Travel Expenses For A Destination Wedding? – Ask The Expert Answer
Question from Aron:
My fiance is originally from Vancouver, BC and I’m from Los Angeles, CA (we currently live in LA). Our wedding will be in Vancouver where almost all of her friends and family live. For my side, however, everyone is in LA. My question is, do I have to pay for any travel expenses for my groomsmen? I’ve heard different things from different people. My fiance says I shouldn’t pay for anything (but she’s biased!) Others say that I should pay for accomodations for a day or two, and some say pay for the tuxedo rentals. What do you suggest? Thanks!
Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:
Hi Aron, and congratulations on your upcoming marriage. There are no "rules" when it comes to who pays for what at a wedding. Traditionally, the wife’s family gave a dowery. In later years, they paid for the wedding. Now, in modern times, it is usually the couple who pays for their own wedding. Family will often help out, but it is now common for couples to pay for the wedding.
When it comes to travel expenses, there are also no "rules". But, if the couple can afford it, they should contribute to the cost of the travel expenses. The groomsmen who are coming from LA knew the wedding would be in Vancouver, and accepted the "position" of groomsmen. They knew what was involved.
I have seen many destination weddings where the couple have helped out someone whose economic state was not up to paying for the whole trip, and they wanted that person there, so they contributed. I have also seen couples who had money pay for all travel expenses. Much of this depends upon what you can afford, and what they can afford.
Although there are no rules, there is a moral responsibility. You know the financial situation of those travelling to Vancouver. You know your financial situtation. Govern yourself according to what is right to you. If you can afford to contribute to their travel expenses, it is common practice to do so.
If you have any other questions, feel free to email again.
Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert
