The following are some of the more traditional guidelines. You will want to modify the list to suit your particular needs. The checklist also provides a starting point for items that may require attention in your wedding preparations. Historically, the bride and or/her family have assumed the majority of the wedding related costs. The more modern approach allows for division of costs between the couple and/or both sets of parents.
BRIDE/BRIDE'S FAMILY
Engagement Party: Bride OR Groom's family plans and hosts.
Wedding dress, headpiece and accessories.
Lingerie.
Invitations, personal notes, and mailing expense.
Wedding programs.
Napkins/Matches/Printed items.
Guest Book.
Groom's wedding ring.
Groom's gift.
Father of the bride's formal wear.
Bridesmaid's gifts.
Bridesmaid's bouquets.
Bridal brunch.
Grandmother corsages.
Church fee.
Ceremony/Reception flowers.
Ceremony rentals.
Wedding breakfast.
Reception hall and rentals.
Reception favors/cameras.
Catering.
Ceremony/Reception music.
Photographic and videographic expense.
Transportation of the wedding party.
Wedding consultant's fee.
Accommodations for out-of-town bride's attendants and guests.
GROOM/GROOM'S FAMILY
Engagement Party: Bride OR Groom's family plans and hosts.
Bride's rings.
Groom's wedding attire.
Flowers for the bride's bouquet and corsages for the mothers and grandmothers.
Groom's boutonnieres.
Groomsmen and Ushers' boutonnieres.
Father of the groom formal wear.
Gloves, ties, ascots for the attendants.
Gifts for the bride, best man, groomsmen and ushers.
Rehearsal dinner.
Marriage license.
Clergyman/Officiant fee.
Limousine for bride and groom.
Groom's cake.
Alcohol at reception.
Accommodations for out-of-town groomsmen, ushers, and guests.
ATTENDANTS/USHERS/BRIDAL PARTY
Wedding gift for the couple.
Maid of honor gown (maid of honor).
Bridesmaid's gowns (bridesmaids).
Bachelorette party (maid of honor and bridesmaids).
Bachelor party (best man and groomsmen).
Best man formal wear (best man).
Groomsmen formal wear (groomsmen).
Ushers formal wear (ushers).
Children's formal wear (children's parents).
Travel costs.