or fees are very
trifling that a bridegroom is expected to pay. He pays the organist for
playing a wedding march at the conclusion of the service, if it is not a
choral one; the bell-ringers look to him for their fee, as do the
vergers, etc. Thus a bridegroom pays for what is absolutely necessary at
the marriage ceremony only, and very little besides.

* * * * *

=When a Friend of the Bride or Bridegroom performs the Ceremony= or
assists at it a fee is not given to him by the bridegroom, but a present
of some kind is made to him, either in silver plate or by a small
cheque, as circumstances dictate, for railway expenses or otherwise. It
is usual for the bridegroom to do this unless the clergyman in question
is a relative of the bride, when a joint present is usually given by
bride and bridegroom.

* * * * *

=The Bride's Parents bear a Large Share of the Wedding Expenses=,
foremost of which is the bride's trousseau, the cost of this being
entirely dependent on position and income. The dinners and "at homes"
given before the marriage to introduce the bridegroom to the members of
the bride's family are given by the bride's parents. The wedding
reception is given by them, either at their own residence or at an
hotel. As concerns their share of the expenses connected with the
ceremony, it depends upon whether the wedding is to be a smart one or a
quiet one. If the former, the expenses that fall to them are somewhat
considerable; if the latter, they are almost nil. A choral service, for
instance, is paid for by the bride's parents, the organist, choirmaster,
and choir all being severally paid by them. If the hymns sung are
printed on leaflets this trifling expense also is included. All floral
decorations are paid for by the bride's parents, as is the hire of the
awning and the red felt at the church doors. When wedding favours or
buttonholes are given it is by them also.

* * * * *

=For whom the Bride's Family are expected to provide Conveyances is
invariably a Misunderstood Detail.=--The bride's father has only to
provide carriages or cars to convey himself and bride to the church, and
for those members of his family residing under his roof, and for
visitors staying with him for the wedding. He is not required to provide
them for any other of the guests, save in the country, and then only for
those who arrive by train at a r