Being chosen as a bridesmaid is an honor that comes with much excitement and anticipation! It's a role filled with love and support for the bride-to-be, but it's essential to acknowledge that it can also come with a significant financial commitment. Bridesmaids often face a range of expenses, from attire to travel, that they’ll need to cover to participate in their friend or family member's big day. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of the average costs associated with being a bridesmaid, helping both potential bridesmaids and brides-to-be prepare for the financial aspects of this cherished role!
The Bridesmaid Dress and Accessories
One of the most iconic and crucial elements of a bridesmaid's ensemble is the bridesmaid dress! Brides often want their bridal party to coordinate in some manner, and that usually means selecting a specific dress style, color, pattern, or even a designer. The cost of bridesmaid dresses can vary widely, but on average, bridesmaids can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $300 (or more) on their gown!
Brides do not typically cover the cost of their bridesmaids' dresses, so it’s probably best to assume you will be financially responsible for this cost as a bridal party member. We recommend bridesmaids budget for this expense and include additional expenses such as alterations, undergarments, and accessories, like jewelry and shoes!
Bridesmaids typically need to purchase specific shoes and accessories to complete their look. The average cost of bridesmaid shoes can range from $30 to $100 or more, depending on the style and brand! Accessories like jewelry, hairpieces, and undergarments (who doesn’t love the security of Spanx!) can add at least another $50 to $100 to the total cost. Again, these expenses will most likely fall on each individual bridesmaid, so planning ahead is essential!
Bridal Party Hair and Makeup
The majority of brides opt for professional hair and makeup services on their wedding day, and this often includes their bridesmaids! While this can be a delightful treat, bridesmaids should anticipate spending anywhere from $100 to $300 (or more) for these services! Each bride and bridal party situation is different; sometimes, the bride will cover all glam costs for her bridal party, and other times, it is up to each individual member to be responsible for payment.
If the bride doesn't cover these costs, ask your bride if they are okay with you doing your own hair and makeup to save money. Communication between bridesmaids and the bride is absolutely key to ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding these expenses!
Since we are a professional on-site hair and makeup company, we of course have to mention the benefits of receiving professional styling services as a bridal party member! Not only is some wedding day pampering a much deserved treat after a late rehearsal dinner evening, but this will also ensure that you are looking and feeling your absolute best for your BFF’s big day. Here’s a scenario for you:
If there are 8 bridesmaids total, and only 6 bridesmaids receiving hair and makeup services, we can guarantee you that in the professional wedding photos, you will be able to tell who received styling from the pro’s, and who was self styled.
Travel and Accommodation
Another significant expense for bridesmaids can be travel and accommodation. If the wedding is not local, bridesmaids will need to budget for flights, rental cars, or hotel stays. Accommodation costs can add up quickly, especially if the wedding is in a popular tourist destination or during peak wedding or holiday season!
On average, bridesmaids should be prepared to spend anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more on travel and accommodation expenses, depending on the location and duration of the wedding festivities!
The Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party
As a bridesmaid, it's customary to help plan and contribute to both the bridal shower and bachelorette party. These pre-wedding celebrations can be a significant financial commitment. Bridal showers typically cost bridesmaids around $50 to $150, depending on the chosen venue, decorations, and activities. It is essential that you discuss with fellow bridesmaids and, if they are involved, the mothers of the bride and groom, to determine each individual's financial responsibilities surrounding this event!
The bachelorette party can be even more costly, with expenses ranging from $200 to $700 or more. This often includes travel, accommodations, meals, drinks, outfits, and activities! Bridesmaids should communicate openly with the bride and fellow bridesmaids to ensure everyone is comfortable with the planned budget for this event!
What Are The Average Costs for Bridesmaids?
Being a bridesmaid is a special and memorable role that comes with both joy and financial responsibilities! Open and honest communication with the bride and fellow bridesmaids is essential to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding budget expectations and financial contributions. By understanding the average costs associated with being a bridesmaid, you can be better prepared to fulfill your role with enthusiasm and grace, creating lasting memories for both yourself and the bride on her special day! Remember, financial investment is a part of celebrating love and friendship, and with proper planning, it can be a truly fulfilling and rewarding experience!
At Updos For I Dos, we take great pride in providing flawless hair and makeup services for every bride and bridal party member that takes a seat in our chairs. While we understand that investing in professional styling services is an additional cost on your already long list of expenses, we hope you understand the value in this investment! Whether it is to enjoy some extra pampering, or to ensure your wedding glam lasts all night long, there are many reasons to have your hair and makeup done by professionals for your BFF’s wedding day. If you’re a bride and ready to secure the East Coast’s most experienced team of wedding hair and makeup artists for yourself and your bridal party, contact us today!
