Are you a bridesmaid at a wedding and wondering how much you will need to spend? Having trouble figuring out what the proper wedding etiquette is on dishing out the dough? Here are some guidelines about who pays for what in regards to a wedding.
Photo Credit: Top Bride Dresses
Paying for bridesmaids dresses:
It is commonly expected for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses. This includes the cost for shoes, jewelry, and the whole shebang. Ask the bride if may let you choose your own dress. If this is the case, you can definitely save on costs here. Chances are she will still have specific requirements including dress length, color, and style. If you’re worried about affording the dress that the bride does pick out, voice your concerns and hopefully she will decide to select a dress at a more reasonable price.
What about bridesmaids’ hair and makeup?
It is up to the bride if she wants to have hair and makeup done professionally for herself and for her bridesmaids as well. If she chooses to hire professionals, it would be a nice gesture for her to pay for the cost of the makeup artist and hair stylist. It should not be expected from the bridesmaids to pay, especially since they are already paying for the whole outfit. Kindly bring this issue up to the bride early on so that there is no miscommunication.
Photo Credit: Karina, Plotko, Flickr
Who pays for the bridal shower?
Usually the hostess of the bridal shower covers the bill. This hostess is typically the Maid of Honor. Since bridal showers can be quite pricey depending on the activity and location, the MOH can definitely ask for help from the bridesmaids. This is perfectly acceptable. It Financial help should not be asked from the wedding guests. If you’re concerned about affording the bridal shower, ask the bride’s mother or grandmother for some extra help.
Bridesmaids coming from out of town who need to stay at a hotel:
If you need to stay at a hotel for a few days during the wedding, it is expected that you cover these accommodation costs yourself. These costs include food and transportation. It’s possible that the bride and groom got a good deal from the hotel by reserving a bunch of rooms at a time. So, you can save on some costs here. If money is an issue, ask the bride if you can split half the cost with her and her family. This is usually acceptable. Also consider rooming together with other bridesmaids. They are probably on the same boat as you, looking to save, save, save!
Photo Credit: Brittney H, Flickr
Paying for the bachelorette party:
For the bachelorette party, it is absolutely fine to ask anyone who is attending to chip in for the total cost of the event. But do make sure to make this clear before the festivities begin. The MOH should work out a plan and figure out how much is expected per person. Everyone at the bachelorette party should graciously agree to help pay their fair share, and join in showing the bride-to-be a good time.
