Your Guide to What Your Bridal Party Is (and Isn't) Obligated to Pay For
Miya Jones Photography
We all know weddings are expensive - not just for the couple but for guests as well, especially when it comes to the bridal party. And while your guests (including your bridal party) are typically more than happy to spend money celebrating you and your partner, how much is too much when it comes to spending money?
While there are no set rules for who should pay for what, it’s important that you and your bridal party are on the same page when it comes to finances. Here is a general guide on who should pay for what when it comes to the bridal party.
What Bridesmaids (and Bridesmen) Are Expected to Pay For
Keep in mind this is not set in stone or a definitive guide as eac wedding is different! However, here is what bridesmaids and bridesmen are typically expected to pay for:
Wedding Day Attire: This includes dresses/outfits and shoes. The bride traditionally provides guidelines for style, fit, and color but allows for their bridal party to choose their mix and match styles. However, if you have your heart set on specific (expensive) wedding-day attire, considering subsidizing the cost or paying for it entirely.
Travel and Accommodations: Another typical bridal party expense is their own travel and lodging for the wedding night/weekend. However, keep in mind that your bridal party is most likely also paying their way for the bachelorette trip! Try to be mindful of travel expenses as they can easily add up.
Bachelorette Parties: Speaking of bachelorette parties, the bridal party is probably the biggest question mark in terms of payment responsibilities. Again, while there is no definitive answer, the bridesmaids are often expected to cover most costs of the celebration. However, it becomes a gray area if the pre-wedding or wedding activities are grandiose - i.e. a destination bachelorette AND destination wedding. If this is what you have your heart set on, it’s not customary to have your bridal party pay your way for both.
The Bridal Shower: The bridal shower is customarily paid for by the bridal party - only if they’re hosting it independently. Sometimes, the bridal shower is hosted by the mother of the bride and her family, in which case the bridal party isn’t expected to contribute monetarily.
What Bridesmaids (and Bridesmen) Aren’t Expected to Pay For
Hair and Makeup: If you’re planning on having professional hair and makeup artists available on your wedding day, it’s a nice treat to pay for your bridal party (if they choose on taking advantage of the services). But, if you’re requiring your bridal party to receive professional services, the bridal party’s costs should be fully covered.
Wedding Flowers: The couple is traditionally responsible for all flowers - including the bridal party and groomsmen.
Day-Of Transportation: Wedding day transportation should be fully covered by the couple, whether that is a bus, golf cart, Ubers, or something else!
Wedding Day Snacks & Meals: Couples should be prepared to provide any food and snacks on the day of their wedding. Not just for the reception, of course, but for the rehearsal dinner and getting ready snacks.
With all this said, make sure to talk with your bridal party about costs - including what they are and aren’t expected to pay for. To do this, make sure you know the overall budget of the wedding and what each party will be responsible for. Try to make it as simple as possible while still leaving room for any unexpected costs.
And, be sure your bridal party is transparent with you! Be open to talking things through and be understanding about what they can and can’t afford. With that said, don’t be offended if someone opts out of being in your bridal party. Rather than create any potential resentment down the road, it’s better for everyone to be upfront!