If you've ever been a bridesmaid you know how expensive it can be. Sure you're excited and flattered at first that your friend asked you to be in her wedding, but it isn't until later when you find yourself asking... What have I gotten myself in to? Don't get me wrong every bridesmaid out there is honored to be one, but sometimes a bridesmaid can spend nearly $1000 when you factor in travel arrangements.
So what can you do to be more budget-minded? As a bridesmaid suggest to the bride to think about bridesmaid designers like
Alfred Angelo,
Mori Lee, and
Bari Jay. All of these designers offer a great line of dresses that wont break the bank. They also offer knee length or tea length dresses that are great "Wear Again" looks. You may even consider picking a great dress right off the rack from a department store. Some Social Occasion departments offer a wide variety of cocktail and informal dresses that can look just as stunning as a traditional bridesmaid dress.
Of course with every great dress you need an equally great pair of shoes... right? Consider picking neutral colored shoes from a department store to match the bridesmaid dresses. More than likely any shoe store will have great-looking shoes in colors like black, silver, gold, clear vinyl, taupe, cream, or beige that will coordinate with most color schemes nicely. This can be a huge savings considering most dyed-to-match shoes can be wildly expensive... and let's face it not all that attractive. I'd rather get a great pair of department store shoes that you can wear again, wouldn't you?
If you're a bridesmaid who will have to travel to the wedding city, instead of staying in a pricey hotel, ask the bride (or groom) if they have any friends or relatives that are willing to put you up for a couple of nights. This idea is not only economical, but it's an opportunity to connect with other people an make long-lasting friendships. In addition, if other bridesmaids live close by -- arrange to carpool with them to the various wedding events that may take place that weekend... this will save you from renting a car.
Everyone knows that bridesmaid's are responsible for throwing bridal showers and bachelorette parties. Instead of planning these events a month or two away from the wedding date save yourself the additional trip and arrive into town a couple of days early and have these events right before the wedding? This is a great budget-saving idea for the out-of-town girls because you will not have the expense of two travel arrangements.
These are just a few penny-pinching thoughts. If you are a bride, or a bridesmaid tell us about what budget-conscious tactics you're using... We'd love to hear your ideas on bridesmaid budgets!
Good luck,
Cathy
