Can we get rid of the old tradition that only the brides family should help pay for the wedding?
Especially if the Bride’s family has less money than the Grooms.
It’s for both of the children. Why can’t it be split equally?
My parents are divorced and are lower income in comparison to his parents who have made comments in passing that it’s traditional for the grooms family to only pay for the rehearsal dinner. We’re having a bonfire, so it’s literally just hotdogs and s’mores for maybe 20 people. Not much to pay for in comparison.
We luckily got our venue for free since we’re having it at the summer camp we grew up going to and where we meet, which is good because if we didn’t have that we would probably be screwed right now. 
I’m not even mad at his parents, I’m mostly upset with my father. I understand how this would be their mindset, it’s a very common and accepted practice. I just wish it wasn’t a thing because it makes me feel like a brat for being upset, but I just want help.
We aren’t having a huge wedding, maybe 180-200 max. We had felt it was ok to have a medium to large size guest list, because we had gotten our venue for free and we knew our original budget. Now I’m not so sure.
My poor mother is trying to help the best she can, but can only do so much. We went into this knowing we’d have to pay for things with our own money, and we’re not against that. The principle of the thing is what frustrates me.
I’m really just ranting because I’m disappointed and hurt by my father‘s actions. And my mind can’t help but wander to how much easier this would all be if his parents would offer to help pay for something more then the rehearsal dinner.
Am I wrong for feeling this way?
- A very frustrated 2026 bride who just found out her poor excuse for a father is not helping pay for any of the wedding so now half her budget is gone.