Re: Jilted bride sues
Yep, there’s precedent in common law supporting compensation being awarded for breach of promise. Since there is a recognized cause of action, the lawsuit can be filed. What follows next is the girl proving that the guy made her a promise and thus had a duty to her, she relied on that promise and incurred the expenses, the guy breached his duty to her, and from the breach of the duty, the damages were caused.
As for her being partiallyto blame - the guy can bring forward evidence during the trial that shows she contributed to the duty being breached - comparative negligence. Depending on how the blame is aportioned, she might not get some or all of the damages awarded.
I’m not assuming anything - I answered the OP and said, based on the details of the article, the girl was well within her rights to sue. What comes out at the trial or pre-trial will determine which side has the meritorious claim.