Forget love and romance - let's talk cold, hard cash.

It is traditional for the bride's parents to organise and pay for the whole wedding, but this is actually much rarer these days than you might think.

More often than not, the work and financial burden are now spread more evenly and the groom's parents may contribute, as can the bride and groom themselves.

There are still some traditions, however, that hold fast. The bride's parents usually still pay for the press announcements; clothes for the bride and her attendants; flowers for the church and reception; photographer; video; transport; reception; wedding stationery; and the cake.

While the groom is responsible for all fees connected with the church; bouquets for the bride and attendants; flower sprays for both mothers; buttonholes for himself, the best man and ushers; engagement and wedding rings; and presents for the attendants. He is also expected to pay for the first night hotel and the honeymoon, but the bride is allowed to chip in if she wishes!

On the whole, the bride gets away pretty lightly, although she will certainly have to pay for her bridesmaids' outfits if she wants them to wear baby pink Bo-peep dresses.

"On the whole the bride gets away pretty lightly"