Traditionally the bride's parents pay for the wedding but nowadays it is more likely that they will only make a contribution.  The groom's parents make also wish to help out with the costs, but the bulk is still often met by the couple themselves.  You really need to discuss who is paying, how much and for what, well before the detailed planning starts.  Remember, if someone else is paying, they do get a say in what goes on - you can't refuse to invite Auntie Doris if your parents are paying and they want her to come!

If you are paying, work out in advance where the money is coming from. With couples having often set up home long before they marry these days, it is quite common to ask for cash instead of wedding presents, and this could be used to offset the cost of the wedding.

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It may be a good idea to take out a low rate credit card especially for wedding costs.  This could be used to pay deposits on venues, cars, dresses or anywhere there is any chance of the organisation going into liquidation, so you could get your money back from the card company.