HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BE A BRIDESMAID: EVERYTHING ABOUT BEING IN A WEDDING PARTY | PART 2

In one of my recent posts, I shared with you a guide about the 8 bridesmaid duties.

But being a part of a wedding party doesn’t stop there. There is a financial responsibility that goes along with being a member of the wedding party.

In this post, I’m sharing with you the major wedding party and bridesmaid expenses, and what your closest friends and family can expect to pay for to be a part of your big day.

How Much Does it Cost to Be a Wedding Party Member: What They’re Expected to Pay For

There is a financial responsibility to being a member of the wedding party, too! And it’s important for each member of your wedding party to know that. 

It may even be a good idea to discuss this with them before you even ask if they will be a part of your big day. 

But how much does it cost to be a bridesmaid/wedding party member? Well, that depends quite heavily on the style of wedding you’re having, where you’re located, and what you’re prioritizing for your day. 

Here’s a breakdown of the traditional wedding party expenses: 

Expenses: TheWedding Parties’ Dress and Other Attire

Wedding Party expense number one is the bridesmaid dress and/or other attire. That includes any accessories or shoes they’ll need. 

This doesn’t necessarily include hair and makeup. If you want your wedding party members to have a specific look, or if you have a vision you want for them, then typically the bride/couple pays for it. It’s a good idea to allot money aside in your  wedding budget for these services.

However, if they want to have a professional do their hair and makeup, then that investment would fall on them. 

How Much Does a Bridesmaid Dress Cost? 

According to most experts, the average cost of the bridesmaid dress is around $200-$260. But many bridesmaid dresses can go up to $500++. 

It may be a good idea to offer matching selections at different price points. This will help your bridesmaids/party choose the perfect outfit for them based on their budget. 

How Much Does a Bridesmaid Dress Alteration Cost? 

Having a dress altered is par for the course when it comes to purchasing a bridesmaid dress. So, just like you may need your wedding gown tailored, your bridesmaids and wedding party members might need their outfits touched up, too. 

This is an important step because a gown that fits like a glove is going to make for immaculate wedding day photos! 

Since bridesmaid dresses aren’t usually as intricate as a wedding gown, the cost of bridesmaid dress alterations is usually more inexpensive. 

On average, bridesmaid expenses for dress alterations can cost anywhere from around $100 to $200. You and your bridesmaids can also take their dresses to a tailor for a consultation. 

Expenses: The Bridal Shower

Number two on the list of bridesmaid expenses is the bridal shower. While the maid or matron of honour takes the lead on planning and preparing for the pre-wedding events, it’s still customary for your wedding party to chip in. 

But if your family is hosting, or at least helping to host, your bridal shower, then they will share in the expense. 

Expenses: The Bachelorette Party

Traditionally, the bachelorette party is a night or event a weekend just for your best friends! Part of the wedding party expenses comes from this event. Any decor, food, drinks, or activities you plan to do will fall on their shoulders. 

It’s usually customary for your wedding planner and your best person to make sure you’re taken care of. That means they’ll often pitch in so you’re not paying your way for your bachelorette party. 

This is also a time to discuss with the wedding party what everyone’s financial capabilities are, as that can play a part in what is planned.

Bachelorette parties can get expensive! Not everyone can afford a weekend away to Vegas, so why not compromise and do a weekend away somewhere local. If you’re wanting to keep everyone’s budgets in mind, a weekend somewhere local may be a better option than a trip further away. 

Expenses: Travel and Accommodations

Depending on what wedding venue you choose and where the members of your wedding party have to travel from, they may incur additional costs as a bridesmaid. 

Some may need to fly into town, others may need to fill up their cars with fuel. And if a decent amount of travel is required, they’ll likely need a hotel to stay in for a night or two.

Expenses: A Wedding Gift for the Couple

Again, this is a customary wedding party or bridesmaid expense. Often, wedding party members will use your registry to purchase a gift for you and your partner. However, since they’re already investing time, energy, and money elsewhere to be a part of your day, try not to get upset if they forego a wedding gift. 

The Total Average Cost of Being a Bridesmaid/Wedding Party Member

Of course, the cost of being a bridesmaid/wedding party member varies depending on your (and their) priorities. If they want to treat you to a luxury bachelorette party weekend away, then, naturally, the cost increases. 

According to Wedding Wire, the average cost of being a bridesmaid can range between $1500 and $2000. 

Overall, being a bridesmaid or a member of the wedding party is an investment. Between the energy and effort of fulfilling the wedding party and bridesmaid duties and responsibilities, to financially covering the expenses - it’s not an easy task to take on! 

But for those of your favourite people who can be there, it is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to celebrate such a major milestone. And most wedding party members agree it’s worth it to get to stand next to and support an incredible person in their life! 

Want to know more about planning for your big day?
Read the Lindsay Plank Event’s blog!