Question:
Dear Nicole,
Most of my friends are low on funds and cannot afford to buy a dress, and a plane ticket, rent a hotel room and car, on top of all other expenses that will accrue for our wedding. How can I help lower the cost for my bridesmaids? I am willing to sacrifice tradition in order to have my friends be a part of my big day!
Amanda from Utah
Response:
Dear Amanda,
I like your attitude, Amanda! I’m happy your biggest concern is to have your friends with you at your wedding. That is what you will remember most, believe me! That said; here are a few suggestions to help make it more affordable for your bridesmaids to participate in wedding festivities:
Let them choose their own dress. You choose the color and let them shop for a dress they like and can afford. But definitely have them show it to you for the final OK. Hint: almost every girl has a "little black dress." It's a classy, no fail solution.
Find alternative lodging arrangements for your friends. Your friends have a lot of options in this department. How about four girls going in on a hotel room together? Another idea is to see if anyone is willing to house your friends for the weekend.
Encourage them to skip the wedding gift. If what you truly want is for your friends to be with you at the wedding. Tell them you'd rather have them spend their money to attend than to buy a wedding gift for you and your fiancé.
Have a joint Bridal Shower/Bachelorette Party. Having one party instead of two saves money and time for everyone!
The moral of the story is to get creative and let your girlfriends know that what's most important is their presence. Try to be understanding of their financial situation and encourage them to participate however they can.
For Better or Worse,
Nicole {Matrimonial Maven}
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