Wedding costs can rack up quickly for the happy love birds. But what many friends don’t know, being bridesmaids can be pricier than expected. Today, we will discuss who should cover specific costs.
Dare to double wear:
For the perfect bridesmaid ensemble, the list can go on and on. The average cost of a bridesmaid dress is around $150 according to Brides. Accessories such as bracelets, necklaces, rings, hair pieces, shoes and clutches can add up to $500 very easily.
To save, some brides encourage bridesmaids to wear rented or pre-owned dresses. Plus, allowing the
bridal party to wear different styles or colors can create more freedom to find discounted dresses. Mismatched dresses may let the bridesmaids pick a style or cut of dress they feel more confident in which is a win-win.
In addition to having mismatched bridesmaid dresses, the women can spend how much they choose. Many times, there are some bridesmaids that wish to pay top dollar as they can afford to do so. On the hand other, some may be still in college or not have the same financial freedom thus needing to cut every cost possible.
Cost of beauty:
Hair and makeup costs are completely case by case. Some bridesmaids may not want their makeup or hair done to feel more comfortable or natural, but if the brides requires it, the bride should cover the costs. The bride or groom’s mother, or even the bride, often cover the costs for hair and makeup. This can reach a whopping $1,000.
Shower the bride:
First off, the cost of the bridal shower is usually covered by the host. This is often times when the mother of the bride or groom, aunts, or grandparents offer to pay. It is polite and expected for the bridal party to cover some costs though.
The bridal party can cook, set up, decorate, or just assist with the shower. They may also buy the food or beverages. The host should not bare the entire tab unless they strongly insist.
As for the shower guest list, all female family members and friends are commonly invited. This is not a rule, however, and men can also be invited if the bride wishes. This is also a good time to mention that the bridal party should traditionally bring a gift to the bridal shower separate from the wedding gift.
Bridesmaids to the bare bachelorette tab:
The bachelorette party makes splitting the tab a little complicated. There’s the hotel, transportation, food, entertainment, and gift costs to split between the bridal party and the bride. Anything purchased before the celebration itself such as sashes or champagne, should be evenly split between the bridal party.
According to Brides Magazine, the bride should not pay for anything the night of her bachelorette. For events lasting longer than one night, the bride should pay for her travel and room. Any gifts or themed accessories should be covered by the bridal party as well.
Wedding travel:
Just like any other guest, the bridal party pays for their own travel and lodging. Unless someone has a house or other accommodations, the bride and groom usually never pays for the guests’ stay. Block rates or air bnb’s make lodging more affordable for guests’ looking for a deal.
Average wedding costs:
According to Business Insider, Americans spend about $30,000 or more on average on their wedding;
Commonly, the bride’s parents contribute 45%, the bride and groom contribute 41%, and the groom’s parents contribute 13%.
Many event planners will inform you that there is no rhyme or pattern to splitting costs. Remember, no wedding is the same! Do no feel overwhelmed looking at these figures as event planners know how to cut costs and find affordable options for the perfect dream wedding, party, or elopement.
Event planners are mediators for splitting costs:
Once it’s all said an done, it costs about $1,500 on average to be a bridesmaid in 2018. Be sure to consider each bridesmaid’s budget, and remember they are there to support you as a bride. Wedding coordinators such as Events By Jaclyn can help accommodate every budget and pull off a beautiful wedding day.
As it is slightly or extremely unconformable when splitting financial responsibilities, event planners act as mediators between friends and family members. Planners and coordinators regularly deliver last payments to vendors as well making your wedding much more laid back for all attending. It would not be good to forget a payment!
Inquire today to ensure your special day is seamless and breathtaking. Thank you for reading this week’s blog and be sure to check back in next week!
Staff Writer
