Here’s How To Not Go Broke As A Bridesmaid
Being a bridesmaid especially if you are just one of two or three is an expensive and taxing undertaking. While of course, it is completely worth it to be indispensable to your best friend on and in preparation for the most significant day of her life, it can really rack up your bills.
In today’s materialistic world there is tremendous pressure on a bridesmaid to over-perform and spend above her means to make sure the pre-wedding arrangements are fit for a princess. This is a guide to accomplishing all that and more while cutting corners on the costs!
Reuse/Reclaim/Recycle
Everything about pre-wedding parties such as a bridal shower or engagement party need not be brand new. What if you have a generic theme that needs generic props? Look up local manufacturers or Etsy shops or better yet buy good quality second-hand props. No one will ever be able to tell the difference! It’s all about effect after all, not perfection. Plus perfection is both stupid and expensive.
And it is not necessary to buy everything; you can also borrow a whole array of items from friends and family who have recently gotten married. Now is the time to call in favors. Not to mention many small companies give rentals of commonly used wedding décor and even things like cutlery and decorative lights.
Be Clear On That Score
As a bridesmaid you must know what your bride wants, otherwise, you are in for a series of embarrassing mistakes. You may think you know your best friend very well but have you ever taken the time to ask about the sort of wedding or bachelorette party she dreams of?
Get the expectations out on paper is possible or with sample photographs. If you want the preliminary parties to be a surprise theme make sure you interview her friends and family to get some more insight. Luckily your job is only to assist with the wedding not plan it from scratch so know there’s help at hand.
Don’t Go Broke As A Bridesmaid
The Financials
Nothing is possible without laying out a clear picture of your financials. The cost of the wedding may not be upon you but plenty of other things such as bridesmaid dresses, parties, and dinners need to be planned.
How much can you spare from your own bills and general expenses? Let’s not go into debt just to prove your friendship, because any friendship that requires that needs some serious reevaluation, okay! Also, don’t underestimate the sentimental value and the value of gestures.
Delegate Responsibility
You are not a one-woman show. Learn to chop up all the essential tasks so that everyone has to contribute. You can also delegate errands to the other close friends or family of the bride. As any CEO or entrepreneur will tell you, delegation is the sure-shot way to success even in…well weddings?
The Foreseeable
Travel arrangements for your best friend’s honeymoon or bachelorette party usually cost the most. Many brides are willing to forego various expenses but not that trip to Vegas they’ve been dreaming about since college!
Looking for more inspiration on how to save money when wedding planning? Check this out!
