Weddings are VERY expensive events, and sometimes that can put a lot of pressure not only on the bride and groom, but also the bridesmaids, who are there to cater for the bride’s every need on her big day.
From organizing a hen party to getting your hair, makeup, tan and nails done, it all adds up and this can cause a lot of stress and even strain on the bride and bridesmaids relationship.
But being a part of the bridal party doesn’t have to be a budget-busting experience. Follow these 5 tips and save big.
1. Book travel straight away once you know the important dates
The second you get the invite for the shower or the Save-the-Date for the wedding, mark it on your calendar and figure out how you’re going to get there.
We all know that the earlier you book travel, the less expensive it is, and this is true for airlines as well as trains and buses.
2. Don’t over volunteer
Don’t kid yourself: Being a bridesmaid is a big investment—of time, of love, and often of dough. And once your bride’s been engaged a while, you’ll probably hear about plans for a shower.
Usually it’s organized by another family member, but if no one steps forward, and this isn’t your best friend/a bride who’s also an orphan, don’t volunteer to organize an event you’ll later resent.
3. Set a budget for gifts
Attending a wedding is like having a friend who celebrates three birthdays in one month, especially if you decide to buy gifts for the shower and hen party too. Multiply that by three weddings in one summer, and suddenly your budget will be seriously in the red.
First, decide what you’re realistically able to afford—not what you think your bride-friends will expect. Sure, we all want to give the gift of fine crystal, but if you have rent and student loans to pay, salad bowls may work just as well. And never underestimate the power of a thoughtful, personal, D.I.Y. gift.
4. Do something good with all those old ugly dresses
Rather than let all those mint-colored monstrosities take up valuable closet space, you can donate them to charity and save on your taxes.
You’ll have more money to spend on yourself for the big day ahead.
5. Don’t alter your dress at the dress shop
Another wedding truth: Bridesmaids dresses, generally speaking, aren’t the most flattering item you’ve ever owned. And since you’re trying to make one dress, or a variation thereof, fit a half-dozen body types, said dress usually requires alterations.
The bridal shop will likely try to convince you that you also need extra features, like boning or loops and hooks to hold your bra. (You don’t.) You are going to wear this dress once—and for all of about six hours—so take it to your neighborhood tailor who can hem and tweak it at a reasonable price to make it look great.
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