How you can Avoid Bridesmaid Burnout

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is well certainly one of the happiest, most memorable moments in a friendship. What’s higher than a likelihood to have fun the love of a few of your best friends? Nevertheless, what was once an easy and joyful role has, in recent times, was an (often) expensive commitment. Between the bridal shower, bachelorette party, dress, and the marriage itself, it’s becoming costly to face by your friend’s side on her big day. No matter whether or not it’s due to social media or the marriage industry itself, it’s an issue.

So, it’s no surprise that bridesmaid burnout is on the rise. Many find themselves financially strained and emotionally exhausted by the point the massive day arrives. That’s why we’re diving into why being a bridesmaid has develop into so expensive and sharing some practical ways to avoid feeling resentful towards those tying the knot.

How Much Does it Cost to Be a Bridesmaid?

While it’s hard to place a definitive number on what it costs to be a bridesmaid, after doing just a little research, we discovered that, on average, bridesmaids are spending anywhere from $1,800 to $2,500 per wedding. Yes, you read that right. That signifies that in case you are a bridesmaid at just two weddings a yr, you might easily be spending as much as $5,000.

Image by Lauren Wysocki.

The Rising Costs of Being a Bridesmaid

The Dress 

Considered one of the primary expenses that come to mind when you concentrate on being a bridesmaid is the dress. Traditionally, bridesmaids are expected to buy a dress that matches the bride’s vision, and these dresses could be quite pricey. Add alterations and accessories to the combo, and also you’re a big expense. Luckily, we’re seeing more couples turn to the mismatched bridesmaid dress look, allowing the bridesmaids to choose their very own dresses. Nevertheless, we don’t foresee the bride picking out the dress of their selection going anywhere anytime soon.

Bridal Showers and Bachelorette Parties

Beyond the dress, bridesmaids are sometimes expected to contribute to the associated fee of events like bridal showers and bachelorette parties. From decor to outfits to food and drinks, there’s lots that goes into these events. And that doesn’t even touch on the indisputable fact that an increasing number of brides are selecting to have destination bachelorette parties. Airfare to destinations like Mexico, Nashville, and Austin can cost tons of of dollars (if not 1000’s) alone, depending in your departure destination. And may’t forget the Airbnb or hotel!

Travel and Accommodation

If the marriage is just not local, bridesmaids are faced with the associated fee of travel, accommodation, and possibly even multiple trips for dress fittings, showers, and the marriage itself. This is very true after your pals begin to maneuver away after school. The bride might also suggest that you simply all stay near the venue on the day of the marriage, even when it’s local, so that you’re not necessarily out of the woods there, either.

Gifts 

On top of all the opposite expenses, bridesmaids are typically expected to provide the bride and groom a marriage gift. This extra cost can add up, especially if the couple has an expensive registry. This can be true for a bridal shower gift.

Hair and Makeup

This expense is one that really varies depending on the marriage. Some brides may request or require bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup professionally done, which could be one other costly addition to the list. Fortunately, as a rule, the bride is willing to incorporate it in her wedding budget, or she gives the bridesmaids the choice to do it themselves. Nevertheless, it is a detail you’ll wish to iron out early on.

Image by  Carl Heyerdahl Photography

Ways to Avoid Bridesmaid Burnout

Honest Communication

The important thing (and most vital tip we will provide you with) to avoiding bridesmaid burnout is open and honest communication with the bride. If you may have concerns in regards to the costs related to being a bridesmaid, discuss them early within the planning process. A considerate friend will appreciate your honesty and should be willing to make adjustments to accommodate your budget.

Set a Budget

The minute you develop into a bridesmaid, establish a transparent budget in your bridesmaid expenses. This budget should include the dress, travel, accommodation, gifts, and another costs you anticipate. Sticking to this budget will make it easier to avoid overspending. Though there are going to be some expenses which can be going to be unclear at first (just like the bachelorette party, for instance), if you may have a ballpark variety of what you’re willing to spend in total, it’ll be easier so that you can know where to allocate specific funds.

Don’t Be Afraid to DIY

Get creative along with your contributions to bridal showers and bachelorette parties. As a substitute of costly dinners or spa days, consider hosting a low-cost, personalized event like a picnic or game night. The identical holds true for gifts. A few of the most special gifts one can receive come from the center, not a store.

Borrow or Rent

If the bride has her heart set on an expensive dress, consider renting it or borrowing it from a friend. In the event you are allowed to decide on your personal dress but know that you simply’re not going to wear it again after the massive day, consider a dress rental program like Nuuly or Rent the Runway. You may also find used dresses for good prices on sites like Poshmark or Depop.

Group Gifting

While your presence and contributions to other wedding activities should count as a present, in case you’re still hoping to gift the newlyweds a gift off of their registry, coordinate with other bridesmaids to provide a joint gift. This manner, you possibly can contribute meaningfully without taking up the whole cost yourself.

Prioritize Self-Care

Lastly, our other piece of recommendation is to make sure that you don’t forget to care for yourself throughout the method. Bridesmaid duties could be demanding, each emotionally and financially. Find time for self-care activities and be certain that you’re not neglecting your personal well-being. If it gets to be an excessive amount of, return to that open line of communication that we mentioned earlier. The bride, if a real friend, will understand. Chances are high, they’ve been in the very same boat before.

Bridesmaid burnout is an actual concern today, but with open communication, budgeting, and just a little creativity, you possibly can still be there in your best friends on their special occasion without sacrificing your personal financial and emotional well-being. Still struggling? We’ve put together 7 ways a bride may help save her bridesmaids money–it might be a great tool to send her way!

Image by Lauren Alatriste