Photo by True Photography Inc. By now, we all know that weddings are not cheap. You can try to save money where possible but they are still pretty expensive! To answer a question that's been floating around lately, most people these days expect when asked to be part of a bridal party that they will be spending their own money on their dress and any bridal events (bachelor/bachelorette parties, bridal shower, etc.) that may be planned.
You can also keep budgets in mind when bridesmaid shopping. For most people, it isn't realistic to expect your bridesmaids to spend $1,000 on a dress that isn't even their wedding dress! So before you go to shopping, discuss and agree on a price range so all of your bridesmaids can afford to be in your wedding without breaking the bank.
One way to offset the cost of your friends paying for their own dress is to offer to pay for their hair and/or makeup for the day of the wedding. If you have it in your budget and expect them to splurge on a dress, it would be a nice gesture to pay for their hair and/or makeup.
If nothing else, have a discussion with your bridesmaids and lay out on the table what you are paying for and what they will be paying for. That way, there are no surprises down the road and everyone is on the same page!
If you have a question you'd like to "Ask Abby," send an email to abby@sandiegostyleweddings.com.