Being a bridesmaid can be a complicated role, especially considering all the expenses and expectations that go along with it. From knowing who pays for her dress and accessories to determining whether or not she should foot the bill for the bride's share of the bachelorette, decoding each bridesmaid's pre-wedding spending is no easy task. Here are a few of the most common money-related questions we've heard from first-time 'maids.
THE ULTIMATE BRIDESMAID BUDGET GUIDE
Who pays for the bridesmaids' shoes and accessories?
Typically, each bridesmaid will be expected to provide her own shoes and accessories. This means they're selecting what they'd like to wear and may or may not have to run it by the bride. If brides prefer to have the bridesmaids all wear matching jewelry, they can select a matching piece to give the ladies as a gift and request that they wear it for the wedding. Some bridal parties opt to wear matching shoes, but the girls usually purchase those on their own since they'll be keeping them for future wear.
Should a bridesmaid give a wedding gift?
Yes, it's customary for bridesmaids to give the couple a wedding gift. Some bridal parties choose to go in on this together so they can present a larger gift to the couple, while others stick with individual gifts.
Should the bridal party pay for the bride's expenses at the bachelorette party?
Yes. It's customary for all of the bachelorette party guests (including the bridesmaids) to pitch in to cover the bride's expenses. In the event the bride is planning a destination bachelorette party, each 'maid will typically only chip in for an evening out rather than pay for the duration of her stay.
Do bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup for the wedding?
If the bride has the budget and would like the bridesmaids to all have professional hair and makeup done, she may cover the associated costs. If there's a large bridal party and the girls would prefer to use their own hair stylist or if the bride cannot cover all of the costs, the bridesmaids can offer to pay for their own hair and makeup. Either way, this will have to be planned in advance so the stylist can schedule enough time for the girls to get ready.
What expenses should I expect to cover as a bridesmaid?
Most often, bridesmaids cover the cost of their dress and undergarments, shoes, accessories, and hair and makeup for the wedding day. The bride may opt to cover any of the aforementioned costs if she deems it appropriate. Additional costs may include the bachelorette party, an engagement gift, a wedding gift, a bridal shower contribution, a bridal shower gift, and any travel costs. Occasionally, the couple may pick up the tab for hotel accommodations.
What expenses should the bride cover for her bridesmaids?
It's standard for the bride to cover the cost of bouquets, transportation to and from the wedding venue, and a gift to her bridesmaids. Optional costs may include hair and makeup, hotel accommodations, bridesmaids' dresses, and a bridesmaids' luncheon (if hosted by the bride).
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of wedding etiquette and bridesmaid responsibilities, I understand the intricate dynamics and financial considerations that come with the role. Having actively participated in various wedding parties and ceremonies, I've not only witnessed but also navigated through the complexities of bridesmaid duties.
Let's delve into the concepts presented in the article, "THE ULTIMATE BRIDESMAID BUDGET GUIDE":
1. Who pays for the bridesmaids' shoes and accessories?
Typically, bridesmaids are expected to provide their own shoes and accessories. While the choice is usually theirs, some brides may opt for matching jewelry, which can be given as a gift. Matching shoes are common, but each bridesmaid usually purchases her own.
2. Should a bridesmaid give a wedding gift?
Yes, it is customary for bridesmaids to give a wedding gift. The approach may vary, with some bridal parties pooling resources for a collective gift, while others opt for individual gifts.
3. Should the bridal party pay for the bride's expenses at the bachelorette party?
Yes, it is customary for all bachelorette party guests, including bridesmaids, to contribute to cover the bride's expenses. In destination parties, the contribution is typically for a single evening.
4. Do bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup for the wedding?
The responsibility for hair and makeup expenses depends on the bride's budget. If feasible, the bride may cover these costs. Alternatively, bridesmaids may choose to cover their own expenses, especially if they prefer specific stylists or if there are budget constraints.
5. What expenses should a bridesmaid expect to cover?
Bridesmaids typically cover the costs of their dresses, undergarments, shoes, accessories, and hair and makeup for the wedding day. Additional potential expenses include the bachelorette party, engagement and wedding gifts, a bridal shower contribution, and any travel costs.
6. What expenses should the bride cover for her bridesmaids?
The bride traditionally covers costs such as bouquets, transportation to and from the venue, and a gift for her bridesmaids. Optional expenses may include hair and makeup, hotel accommodations, bridesmaids' dresses, and a bridesmaids' luncheon if hosted by the bride.
In navigating the intricate world of bridesmaid responsibilities and expenses, understanding these conventions can contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable wedding experience for everyone involved.
