Weddings are wonderful celebrations, and being asked to be in a wedding party can feel like an honor. But that honor comes with a price tag. Between attire, travel, time commitments, gifts, and wedding-related events, the costs can add up quickly. While every wedding is different, understanding the common expenses associated with being a bridesmaid or groomsmen can help you budget and avoid unexpected financial stress.
1. Wedding Attire
The outfit is usually the biggest expense for anyone in the wedding party. Bridesmaids might have to buy dresses picked out by the bride, while groomsmen may need to buy (or rent) suits or tuxedos. Don’t forget about extras like shoes, jewelry, ties, alterations, and any undergarments. All of these accessories will add to the total. Depending on the wedding dress code, clothing alone can easily cost several hundred dollars.
2. Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
Bachelor and bachelorette trips have become popular in recent years. But even local celebrations can involve hotels, restaurants, drinks, gifts, and entertainment. And it is customary to split costs for the soon-to-be bride or groom. Airfare, hotel stays, transportation, and meals should all be factored into the total budget. For many wedding party members, this ends up being one of the costliest parts of the whole deal. If this isn’t in your budget, you could always let your friend know ahead of time, as in, “I’d love to be part of your wedding party, but a destination celebration isn’t in my budget right now. I’d still love to participate in anything local.”
3. Travel to the Wedding
If the wedding isn’t local, travel costs are another major consideration. You’ll either have to purchase plane tickets or pay for gas, rental cars, parking, or Ubers. Multi-event celebrations can mean traveling to and from the hotel repeatedly. Most weddings nail down their date well ahead of time, so booking early can help reduce costs. Regardless, travel is one of the biggest financial commitments.
4. Hotel Accommodations
With travel comes hotels. Out-of-town weddings will require at least one night in a hotel or Airbnb. Some couples are thoughtful enough to reserve room blocks with discounted rates, but even still, accommodations can be expensive. This is especially true in big cities during peak wedding season. Room fees, parking, and taxes will all add up. Sharing a room with one or more other guests is one of the easiest ways to save money on lodging.
5. Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
Many brides choose to hire professional hair and makeup artists for their wedding party. Some brides have a highly specific vision for their bridesmaids, and they ask everyone in the wedding party to follow it. Groomsmen aren’t immune to these costs; they might spend money on haircuts or beard trims before the ceremony. These beauty expenses tend to be overlooked when estimating the total cost of participating.
6. Wedding Gifts
Being in the wedding party doesn’t usually replace the social expectation of giving a wedding gift. Though you shouldn’t underestimate the value of the time and attention you’ve dedicated to your friend by being a part of their wedding, you may want to give an additional gift. If so, remember that your present can be heartfelt instead of pricey. If you do plan on including a gift, it’s a worthy line item in the budget.
7. Engagement Party, Bridal Shower, and Rehearsal Dinner
Traditionally, members of the wedding party help plan or host wedding-related events. Even just attending these celebrations can be costly, if you plan on shopping for specific attire. Engagement parties might require paying for dinner, while bridal showers generally come with a gift. This adds up before you even get to the big day. If you are hosting, it can mean contributing to decorations, food, venues, games, or party favors. Individually the costs may seem small, but with so many pre-wedding celebrations, the money can stack up significantly. Pro tip: The dress you think is too old to wear will look great with new shoes and accessories.
8. Time Off from Work
One expense that’s easy to overlook is lost income or vacation time. Traveling for wedding events may require taking unpaid leave or using valuable vacation days. Some attendants also spend time attending dress fittings, rehearsals, planning meetings, or helping with wedding preparations. Even when there isn’t a direct financial cost, the time commitment can be substantial.
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