Who pays for what?
Requesting your wedding train to pay for certain things can be tough, and it can get awkward when your expectations doesn’t line up with theirs, especially when they’re doing so much to support you already. Here’s a complete guide of what bridesmaids / groomsmen are and aren’t typically expected to pay for:
- Travel– Traditionally, how your wedding train get to the wedding is on them, but they should feel comfortable discussing their financial needs with you.
- Wedding Attires– Dresses, shoes and accessories (including jewelry, unless you’re gifting it to them) are their responsibility.
- Bridal Shower – Depending on who’s hosting, your maid of honor and bridesmaids are often expected to foot the the bridal shower bill.
- Bachelor Party– Your pals are responsible for all décor, activities, food and drink on your Bach eve.
- Wedding Gift– 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 with a group gift. You might prefer to receive one nice gift over several less expensive ones anyway.
Typically, you’re expected to cover:
- 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, you’re expect to cover the costs.
- Wedding Day Transportation– Traditionally, the couple and family are responsible for coordinating and covering day-of wedding transportation (to and from the hotel, ceremony and reception).
- 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.
- 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.
