Although the tradition is that the bride's family pays for the reception, and that includes location fees and related expenses such as catering, generators and décor, today there are no hard and fast rules as to who must cover any expense.
We know you'll find a way of covering wedding costs that's comfortable for you and your parents, but we do have one tip:
The very smallest part of your reception expenses may be the location fee itself. So before getting all excited that you found the spot that goes beyond your wildest dreams and costs only a few hundred dollars, factor in all the additional expenses, such as security, tents, lighting, rentals or portable restrooms. You may find that your "deal" wasn't so ideal after all.
Hot Tip
When planning an out-of-town affair, don't get carried away and start thinking you have to pay for close friends and family to travel there. Try and offer your guests affordable options to travel to your wedding, but don't be too generous just because you've chosen to host your big day long distance.