[momofbride]

My daughter is getting married in 3 weeks in a very simple, immediate family only, ceremony which will be held on the porch of an old renovated beautiful home. The minister performing the ceremony will be traveling approximately 30 miles to conduct it. My question is: Who pays the minister...the brides father or the grooms father?? And how much is appropriate for the distance he is traveling? This minister is the ex-youth director from at our church. My daughter has known him all her life.

THANKS. MOM-OF-BRIDE

[RevFrye]

Who pays the minister? Most resources indicate it is the responsibility of the groom to pay the minister's or rabbi's fee or donation and any transportation or lodging expenses of the officiant. However, many couples do not follow this tradition. My experience has shown most of my honorarium comes from the bride's side of the aisle.

Regarding typical fee... This is all over the map. Asking your officiant for a "range" of typical fees in your area is the best way to decide what you are going to feel comfortable with.

[RevSusanna]

My experience also indicates that it is typically (though not always) the bride's family who pays for the minister's fees, particularly if it is their church affliation. Fees can range dramatically. It would be best to ask your minister or the church what the range is. Absolutely ADD for travel time and expenses. It is wonderful that he is willing to go out of his way...

Blessings,

Rev. Susanna Stefanachi Macomb

[RevSusanna]

By "also", I meant that my own personal experience coincides with Rev. Frye in that typically the bride's family has paid for my services...contrary to what most books say. Blessings! Rev. Susanna Stefanachi Macomb