Have you been a bridesmaid three times, and each time involved purchasing a different colour, cocktail-length dress in varying shades and styles? Yet none of these bridesmaid dresses can be recycled for another occasion and end up just living in your closet.
Being a bridesmaid is an integral part of a wedding.
So if you have been asked to be one of the bridesmaids for a close friend or family member’s wedding, congratulations! While as excited as you are, bridesmaid dresses can get pretty costly. So who should pay for the dresses?
Is the bride responsible for buying all the dresses or should the bridesmaids buy their own dresses? But what if it’s over-budget and one of the bridesmaids doesn’t have enough budget for the gown?
Let Them Know
When you’re a bridesmaid, it can seem unfair that you have to pay for your bridesmaid dress. And it is definitely an awkward conversation. But if you want someone to be your bridesmaid, and you want them to pay for their bridesmaid dress, you should let them know beforehand.
However, if the bride can afford to pay all the bridesmaid dresses, it’s a very thoughtful gesture. But many brides can’t afford to do so due to their tight budget for their wedding. So bridesmaids are usually expected to pay for their own dresses and accessories, hair and makeup. Do let the bride know if it’s over budget so the both of you can figure a way out!
Choose within the agreed budget!
After all, bridesmaids should be prepared to cover the costs of these expenses once they accept the offer. And the bride needs to let her bridesmaid know about the financial responsibilities to avoid any monetary conflicts later on.
While choosing the dresses, choose styles within an agreed up budget to avoid any conflicts that may arise between brides and their bridesmaids. The last thing you want is for them to be upset or frustrated about having to fork out a sum of money for a dress they will never wear again.
So if you are one of the bridesmaids and you think the cost is going to be an issue, voice your concerns to the bride. Because she may give you some colour or style requirements and then each of you would choose something that suits your standards. That way, you decide how much to spend.
Everyone has to be flexible. What’s important is to remember that in the long run, your friendship with each other is worth far more than a gown.
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