Brides, think you’re stressed out? Keep in mind that your bridesmaids—the ones who will plan your bridal shower, don your dress of choice, and help you through your pre-wedding jitters—are stressing, too. Here are some tips to keep your bridesmaids happy and ensure years of girls’ nights out to come.
Maids and Money
With the average cost of a wedding somewhere in the $30,000 range—and that number undoubtedly higher in some counties—a wedding is probably the most expensive party a couple will ever throw. While the bride might write off extra expenses to an “I’m only getting married once” mentality, bridesmaids (especially the “always a bridesmaid” variety) might be reticent to do the same. The costs—everything from the dress to the shower to travel expenses—can add up. It is understandable and justified that with the honor of being a bridesmaid come additional costs, however, I think brides should try and figure out ways to keep costs down, or at least, acknowledge how much they’re asking their bridesmaids to spend.
With the average cost of a wedding somewhere in the $30,000 range—and that number undoubtedly higher in some counties—a wedding is probably the most expensive party a couple will ever throw. While the bride might write off extra expenses to an “I’m only getting married once” mentality, bridesmaids (especially the “always a bridesmaid” variety) might be reticent to do the same. The costs—everything from the dress to the shower to travel expenses—can add up. It is understandable and justified that with the honor of being a bridesmaid come additional costs, however, I think brides should try and figure out ways to keep costs down, or at least, acknowledge how much they’re asking their bridesmaids to spend.
*Take into consideration where and at what point each of the women is in her life. Is everyone fresh out of college? Single and living it up? Planning a wedding of her own? Just became a homeowner or a new mommy? Knowing your friends’ situations might make the decision between, let’s say, a local bachelorette party and a destination fiesta a bit easier.
*Offsetting costs is another way to ease the bridesmaids’ burden. I have seen some brides pay for dresses and/or shoes and others for professional hair and makeup application. But if that’s not in your budget, perhaps you allow bridesmaids to wear shoes they already may have or to have their hair and makeup done wherever they choose. Offer the services to them but also be explicit about the price and tell them it’s ok to go somewhere else.
*A simple acknowledgement that lets your bridesmaids know that you are aware and appreciate that they’re shelling out big bucks for your special day is a nice touch. A day at the spa or a luncheon for your bridesmaids is a sweet gesture as a thank you for their support.
{Check back soon for our Love your Bridesmaids Part II}
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