Don't break your bridesmaid's bank
A lot of brides are increasing their expectations of expenses for their bridesmaids. Being a guest in your wedding should not cause a financial burden for your closest friends. Expectations to buy the dress, pay for alterations, buy shoes and jewelry, plan to attend not one, but several showers and the bachelorette party as well as get their nails, hair and make-up done the day of. This list can easily exceed an estimated expense of $1,500 if some form of major travel is included.
Brides should be aware of the expenses they are asking their friends to spend. They should give their friends an estimated expense when asking them to be part of their wedding. Items that a bridesmaid should be prepared to pay for are the dress, alterations, undergarments, travel and lodging expenses as well as attendance at a shower, bachelorette party and spa weekend if the bride chooses to have one.
Brides can help east the hit to their friend’s bank accounts by picking up the tab for nails, hair, makeup and jewelry. The bride should also arrange for a group rate at a local hotel. Another suggestion is to give the bridesmaids the color of shoes you would like them to purchase, but let them be flexible on their shoe choice. Let them pick out a style that is comfortable and in a price range that works for them. Most bridesmaid shoes end up collecting dust in their closet anyways. If you expect to have a spa weekend, make it something you know your friends will be able to afford attending.
Common costs
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Dress: $140
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Alterations: $75
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Shoes: $25 and up
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Strapless bra: $40
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Travel (gas, plane tickets): $50-$300
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Gifts (shower, wedding, bachelorette party): $475
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Accommodations: $150
Total: $955-$1,205
Stick to your budget, be realistic and don't add any extra expenses last minute.