Bride price and dowry are two important elements in traditional weddings in China, representing the respect and blessing of the bride and groom. However, with the changes of society, bride price and dowry have also caused some controversy and confusion, such as what is the standard of bride price? What should the dowry include? How to balance bride price and dowry? These issues need to be decided by both husband and wife and the family through consultation according to their actual conditions and values.

First of all, the original intention of the bride price is the groom's gratitude and compensation to her family, because the bride will leave her parents and live with the groom. The bride price can be in the form of money, jewelry, articles, etc. The specific amount and content should be determined according to the family economic situation, regional customs, bride's education, occupation and other factors. The bride price should not be a burden or an exchange of interests, but a symbolic gift, reflecting the groom's love and respect for the bride.

Secondly, the original intention of dowry is the bride's family's blessing and support for the new couple, because the new couple needs some necessities and decorations to start a new life. Dowry can be in the form of furniture, electrical appliances, clothes, jewelry, etc. The specific content should be determined according to the couple's preferences, needs, styles and other factors. Dowry should not be a show-off or comparison, but a practical gift, which reflects the care and help of the bride's family for the new couple.

Finally, how should bride price and dowry be balanced? There is no fixed answer to this question, because every couple and every family has their own situation and ideas. However, there are some principles for reference, such as:

-The bride price and dowry should be voluntary and should not be influenced by external pressure or public opinion.

-The bride price and dowry should be reasonable and should not exceed the affordability of both families or run counter to the values of both sides.

-Bride price and dowry should be communicated. There should be no misunderstanding and disputes on this issue, but we should respect each other's opinions and feelings.

-Bride price and dowry should be secondary, not as the premise or purpose of marriage, but as a link in the process of marriage.

In a word, bride price and dowry are beautiful customs in China traditional culture, which can increase the joy and warmth of the couple when they get married. However, they should not be a burden and obstacle for new people to get married. Newcomers and their families should understand and balance according to their actual situation and values.