Exactly What Your Bridal Party Should Pay For (And Shouldn’t Pay For!)
Bride Tribe, I Do Crew, Wedding Squad. Whatever you call them, their number one role is to support you and shower you with love and celebration on your way to the altar. But with that, of course, comes events, responsibilities, and the awkward subject of financial obligations for all the above. Since there can be a few grey areas — like should bridesmaids buy their own dresses, get their own hotel rooms, or cover certain bachelorette expenses? — there's a lot to think about! But, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Today, we’re filling you in on all things to know to make the bridal party experience just as wonderful as the day itself!
What The Wedding Party Is Expected To Pay For:
Bridal Shower. Your BFF is on her way to wedded bliss. So it’s the perfect time to celebrate with all of her friends and family. Often times, a member of the bride’s family or a close family friend will be so excited and offer to host the bridal shower. If not, the bridal party can come together and host a bridal shower for their girl. In that event, you would help to cover the costs of the affair. (Good news on this front - the party itself can be considered your gift!). If you are not hosting, consider getting something off of her registry, or go in on a group gift! Bachelorette Or Bachelor Party. As if the whole wedding celebration wasn’t fun enough, the bachelorette and the bachelor party is the perfect opportunity to let loose and shower the happy couple with love (and maybe a shot or two…!). When it comes to shelling out for this, traditionally the entire bridal party, even if some are unable to attend, should do their best to chip in. If it's a night out on the town, the bridal party can contribute to transportation, food, drinks and, of course, any fun party favors! If it's a weekend getaway, they can try to pay for as much as possible throughout the weekend, like entertainment, meals, etc. Just be sure to have money conversations for these events beforehand without the bride or groom present. Hotel & Travel For The Wedding. This usually lands in your court… which is great because you’ll want to make the arrangements work with your schedule anyways! Our advice, however, is to confirm this with the couple just to be safe. Sometimes the soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. will take care of the hotel for their wedding party as a gift, or secure rooms for the wedding party through their hotel block. Call them up ahead of time so you’re crystal clear on this before you forgo your plans. Wedding Day Attire. It’s time to get jazzed up! The bridesmaids or groomsmen typically cover the costs for their own attire, including shoes. Whether that is a bridesmaid dress, a tuxedo or a suit, it will be yours to keep and wear again after the big day, so there’s always the silver-lining that it can be repurposed...yay! Wedding Gifts. Beyond showering the couple with love and support, also expect to get them a wedding present for their big day. Typically, the bridal party will go in together on one gift for the couple. This way, the duo gets something they really want, but your cost is low because it's a group gift. It’s a win, win!
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What The Bridal Party Shouldn't Pay For:
Hair & Makeup. Getting all glammed up the morning of the wedding is a real treat, especially when you’re surrounded by all of your favorite ladies! Since paying for this can differ by the wedding, be sure to ask what is expected of you. And, as always, be prepared to tip accordingly (psst: keep that cash handy!). Floral Accessories. Oh the flowers, this might just be the best part of a wedding! (That, and your friends getting married, of course!) If you are in a wedding, you don’t need to pay for any flowers that you might be wearing or holding like a bridesmaid bouquet, corsage, or flower crown. The newlyweds will take care of that for you, simple as that! Wedding Day Transportation. You can’t have the wedding party late to the ceremony or the reception! On the day of the wedding, the couple should cover the transportation for their entire wedding party to and from the wedding. Just make sure you are in the right place at the right time — it's your duty! Wedding Day Meals. If the wedding party is all getting ready together in one spot, like the bride’s hotel room, the bride will usually take care of ordering a boxed-type of breakfast or lunch for everyone to enjoy. Food for the wedding would also be taken care of, just like any other guest there! (Pro bridesmaids tip: Make sure the bride and groom eat their meals too!)
There you have it! A quick break down of who pays for what when it comes to being in a wedding. If you're stressed at all, just remember that there are so many fun and festive events that will all be worth it after the happy couple takes their final sparkler exit at the end of the reception!
