Who’s paying for it anyway?
We know that asking your bridesmaids to pay for certain things can be tough, and it can get awkward when your expectations don’t line up with theirs—especially when they’re doing so much to support you already. Whether it’s coordinating the bridal shower or bustling your dress at the wedding, be honest about what you expect from your crew, up front about all costs associated with their commitment, and willing to compromise wherever you can. If you’re gracious and understanding, they will be too. To get the conversation started, here’s a complete guide to what bridesmaids are and aren’t typically expected to pay for.
Traditionally, your bridal party is expected to cover:
Hotel and Travel
Traditionally, how your bridesmaids get to the wedding and where they stay is on them, but they should feel comfortable discussing their financial needs with you. If it’s in your budget, consider going halfsies on travel and accommodations—you can at least help them out by reserving hotel room blocks so the prices are at a discount.
Wedding Ensemble
Bridesmaid dresses, shoes and accessories (including jewelry, unless you’re gifting it to them) are their responsibility.
Bridal Shower
Depending on who’s hosting, your bridesmaids and maid of honor are often expected to foot the the bridal shower bill. But if your family is hosting (or cohosting), a portion of the costs and responsibilities—from décor and activities to food and beverages—will fall on them.
Bridal Shower Gift
One wedding gift is usually enough (see below) and a bridal shower gift is by no means required. But if the party has a fun theme like a lingerie swap, it’s possible to participate without purchasing a huge gift off the registry—or another huge gift altogether.
Bachelorette Party
Your pals are responsible for all décor, activities, food and drink on your hen night.
Wedding Present
In money, time and effort, your bridesmaids are paying for a lot, so don’t be shocked or offended if they don’t get you a wedding gift. If they do plan on gifting you something, they can always go in on one thing with other bridesmaids. You might prefer to receive one nice gift over several less expensive ones anyway.
Traditionally, you’re expected to cover:
Bouquets, Corsages and Other Floral Accessories
The bride and her family are expected to pay for the bridesmaid bouquets and other floral accents like corsages.
Wedding Day Transportation
Traditionally, the bride and her family are responsible for coordinating and covering day-of wedding transportation (to and from the hotel, ceremony and reception) for all guests and the wedding party. However you, your partner and your families divide it up, your bridesmaids shouldn’t have to worry about this one.
Hair and Makeup
This one’s a little trickier, but if you request your bridesmaids get their hair and makeup done professionally, then you should pay. If you’re impartial, but your bridesmaids insist on using a professional glam squad, offer to split the bill or pay for it as their bridesmaid gift—otherwise, they can cover their own beauty services.
Accommodations the Night Before the Wedding
If you plan to spend the night in a shared hotel suite with your pals on the eve of your wedding, expect to cover the costs. Your bridesmaids may have already split a room with a plus-one for the duration of their stay, and they shouldn’t have to pay for yet another room.
Madeline VeZain 