Paying for a Wedding: Divorced Mom and Dad Split the Cost... Sort Of

This mother-of-the-groom feels her ex isn’t putting in his fair share — and it could affect her cash gift

By Judy Lewis

Paying for a Wedding: Divorced Mom and Dad Split the Cost... Sort Of

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It’s an unfortunate fact of life that many parents are divorced. What’s even more unfortunate is when divorce complicates wedding planning — especially when it becomes another way for exes to “get back at one another.” Of course, it’d be wonderful if divorced couples could focus on the union taking place — and not on themselves — in order to make day as special as possible!

A Hudson Valley mother-of-the-bride asks: “My son is getting married. My ex-husband and I split the rehearsal dinner, flowers, and limos. (I also paid for the bridal shower, honeymoon, and wedding favors on my own.) My cheap ex-husband is not giving them a cash wedding gift — he said he gave enough. I, however, would like to give them cash. What’s a reasonable amount?”

(Our answer on next page)

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