For Loving Couples

Budgetting is an Important Part of Being  a Bridemaid

• Most Brides are aware of the costs involved in planning a wedding and the costs incurred by the bridal party, in hopes she is aware of your budget if not a meeting of the bridesmaids need to happen so there is a good relationship as the wedding goes along and can be handled well if and when stressful times occur.

It is a wonderful experience being a bridesmaid, but there are expenses that go along with it, unless of course you are fortunate enough to have a wealthy family that is hosting the whole wedding and can foot the bill.

But if that is not the case, be prepared for the following and give yourself a bit of lea-way either way. If the bride is insistent on a certain gown and it’s not in your budget you need to explain and maybe she will be able to share some of the expenses.So here is a budget for the Bridesmaid’s share if necessary:

Don’t forget to try and buy what you need used, especially as most things tend to be only once before and try and resell your items later.

So here is your budget:

• Dress: $210 – you may want to check out department stores as opposed to Bridal stores for best value
• Alterations: $75  (hopefully you can get to fit off he rack)
• Shoes: $25
• Strapless bra: $40 –regular sixes you may get away with department stores, but for the fuller figure may cost a little more
• Hair, nails, makeup: $150, including tips
• Gas for travel: $75 per trip x 4 trips = $300  (Try and car pool with other bridesmaids)
• Two shower gifts: $35 each
• Contribution to shower: $30 (decorations, snacks, etc)
• Bachelorette party: $75 — $100 (estimated)
• Wedding present: $100 (estimated)
• Other Potential expenses. Many Brides are opting for the All Inclusive Resort Bridal Party, though a wonderful idea for all, considerations have to be made for the travel, resort location and time off work, especially if you do not have vacation time available.

But WoW !, What a great way to have a wedding, drinks and meals usually included, sunshine courtesy of the Universe, Great Nightlife and New People to Meet. Many weddings done in this style require a comfortable cotton bridesmaid dress, flip flops and a very natural look. So one can help weigh the cost of a formal wedding. The biggest consideration however is how many people can attend? How many people can afford the flight, hotel and other costs involved. The main way that people will host this style of wedding is if they do this and later hold a smaller gathering for family and friends who could not attend.

So give some good thought into the budget and get the assistance of a wedding planner if necessary, it may save you money in the long run.