Go2Wed.com Blog for Brides Planning a Wedding!

Before you sign contracts, figure out guest lists, it is so crucial that you talk open and honestly as a couple about those who are agreeing to contribute to the wedding fund.  I talked with the latest couple recently where the groom knew his father was maybe 50% likely to actually come through on his promised money (half the wedding budget!) but didn’t say anything.  The brides family as hosts took that money as gold and made a very elegant wedding based on the expected money.  Once it got out he wasn’t good for the money (major health issues came up), this grooms father added salt to the wounds by saying he wanted to invite 10 more guests.  The brides family was livid and the couple was (when we talked with them recently) stuck between themselves and the parents.

This is not a fun situation to be in and there is no easy way out.  But even if the bride knew her future father in law was bad with his money the couple could have worked together to prevent what ended up being (and still is) a huge nightmare for everyone involved.  This is not a good way to start a marriage.

So be careful and be open.  Money is a taboo subject in our society but it can truly wreck havoc on your relationship when the dirty laundry isn’t brought out to the open!  Even if your spouse to be isn’t like their parents, it is important to know the family culture so when grandpa promises Johnny boy an expensive Christmas present and doesn’t follow through you will have been more able to prepare.