Who Pays for that Bridesmaids' Dresses? Etiquette Explained

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If you're having bridesmaids inside your wedding, you might be wondering: who's designed to pay for his or her dresses?

It's a troublesome topic, and opinions about them can be quite divided within the U.K.

Does the Bride Pay for that Bridesmaids' Dresses?

The etiquette rules on who should purchase the bridesmaids' dresses vary, based on where you are within the world. Like many facets of wedding tradition, the 'done thing' differs from nation to nation.

In the U.S., bridesmaids will always be expected to purchase their blush pink bridesmaid dresses. The bride decides what her wedding ceremony will wear, and they purchase it. If you accept the invitation to become a bridesmaid within the U.S., this expense is something you need to be prepared for.

However, it's completely different here within the U.K. Our wedding etiquette dictates that in many circumstances, the bride-to-be should purchase the bridesmaids' dresses. (Or whoever's funding the marriage – e.g. the bride-to-be's parents.) This is particularly important if:

● The bride wants to pick the exact dresses her bridesmaids will wear

● The dresses are particularly expensive

● You've chosen an outfit that your bridesmaids probably won't wear again (due to the style, material, or color)

According to a survey by Oasis, 59% of U.K. bridesmaids expect the bride to be to purchase their dresses. Many more of these surveyed believe that the bride-to-be should have a minimum contribution for the cost. Go

How to Save Money on Bridesmaids' Dresses

If whatsoever possible, you (as the bride-to-be) should cover the price of your bridesmaids' dresses. It's only fair – in the end, your bridesmaids will already be spending lots of money and time on your wedding.

Typical bridesmaid duties include organizing and spending money on the hen do, assisting with wedding ceremony planning, and assisting to set up the venue. They'll also book days off, organize their very own transport and accommodation, and purchase their beauty treatments (e.g. waxing and tanning). And don't forget, they'll probably buy a wedding gift, too.

The least you can do is purchase their outfits. But should you're with limited funds, you may struggle to pay the cost. Luckily, there are numerous ways you can cut costs:

– Have fewer bridesmaids, so you'll have fewer dresses to buy

– Browse end-of-season sales racks at the local department stores

– Search the web for coupons and discounts

– Look for second-hand bridesmiad gowns on eBay

Most importantly, play the role of flexibility using the color and elegance you have in mind for the bridesmaids' dresses. The less fussy you're, the greater options you’ll have.

How to Ask Bridesmaids to Pay for Their Dress

If you realize you can't cover the price of your bridesmaids' dresses, it's better to make that clear from the outset – i.e. whenever you ask these phones to be your bridesmaids.

First, decide whether you really can afford to contribute whatsoever. For example, should you're prepared to split the price 50/50, or contribute £50 towards each dress, this may go down just a little better than asking your bridesmaids to pay for the entire cost themselves.

When you 'pop the question', mention the subject immediately. Let them know that there's no pressure, and when it's something they feel they can spare the cash for, you won't be upset when they say no. Here's a good example script:

"As you realize, I'm married next July, and I'd love for you to be among my bridesmaids. But unfortunately, I'm with limited funds, so I won't be able to purchase your dress. It would be considered a great help should you could purchase your outfit – not to mention you'd possess the final say with what you wear. Does that sound OK? If not, I won't be offended whatsoever if you'd prefer to not be within the wedding."

Whatever you choose, ensure that you address the topic directly together with your girls whenever you ask these phones to be bridesmaids. Be transparent together about their obligations from the get-go, so that they can make an educated decision. This will avoid any disagreements or tension in the lead-up to your special day.

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