Wedding Party Finances: Who Pays for What

Weddings can be expensive, not only for the couple but also for their bridal party. If you choose to have bridesmaids and groomsmen, what is reasonable to expect them to pay for versus what you should cover yourself? We contacted a few Las Vegas wedding planners to get the scoop on finances.

Typical Wedding Party Finances

Typically, bridesmaids and groomsmen are expected to cover the costs of their attire, including dresses, suits and accessories, as well as travel and accommodation expenses if the wedding is out of town. They also handle their hair and makeup costs and contribute to the bachelor or bachelorette party expenses. 

The couple usually covers attire costs of specific garments, transportation to and from the venue, and meals and drinks on the wedding day. Additionally, the couple might cover or contribute to hair and makeup services and provide gifts or tokens of appreciation for the bridal party. 

But every wedding is different, and there is no right or wrong answer. 

“For some couples, they like to cover the attire and some like to cover the makeup and hair services. I believe that having a wedding party should result in having honest conversations so that everyone can understand what each person can pay for. If there are differences, they can be settled,” says Jessica Valenzuela, a wedding planner and designer who founded Las Vegas-based Not A Jess Planner. 

Talking Honestly About Finances Upfront is Paramount

Before you ask friends and family to be part of your wedding, it is crucial to sit down with your significant other and figure out how much you are willing to pay for bridal party finances and what you expect the party to contribute. Then, you should give your party an idea of these costs and what you expect them to contribute. 

“When it comes to bridal party finances, clear communication is crucial,” says Diana Dorsey, a wedding planner for Simply Elegant by Diana. “Open discussions about the financial expectations help ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding planning experience for everyone involved.”

Having honest conversations about money in the beginning is vital. Ensure you understand what your friends can afford, and if you still want someone in your party who can’t afford the costs to be willing to pick up their tab. 

“Honest conversations need to happen, and if a wedding party member cannot pay for the expected services, perhaps they step down, or maybe another (wealthier) wedding party member or the couple is willing to help that person out,” Valenzuela says. “Time and time again, I think when someone is asked to be in the bridal party, they feel obligated to say yes. That is why I strongly believe setting expectations for the bridal party, and for them to understand what you would like them to contribute to or be a part of, helps with their decision to say yes or no.”

Creative Ways to Cut Back Costs

From buying secondhand dresses to DIY hair and makeup, there are ways to cut back on costs for your bridal party.

“Watch out for those semiannual sales from dress or tux companies. Sometimes your wedding planner has connections to get a discount off attire, so make sure to ask,” Valenzuela says. “If some girls are excellent at doing their makeup and hair, perhaps ask them to help other bridesmaids in your group so no one has to pay for this professionally.”

You can also help with costs by offering discounted room rates for your wedding party. Some couples will even chip in a portion of the cost of each room for their bridal party. 

At the end of the day, it all comes back to honest communication with your bridal party when asking them to join. 

What About Destination Weddings? Who Covers Costs Here?

Destination weddings are trendy right now. Before planning one, it is essential to carefully consider the financial impact on your bridal party. 

“Asking your bridal party to cover both their travel expenses and the cost of their attire can be a significant burden. While it’s common for guests to handle their travel costs, it may be more reasonable for the couple to cover or contribute to some of these expenses, especially if the destination is far or particularly costly,” Dorsey says.

She also recommends offering a group rate for accommodations or providing a stipend to help offset costs. 

“Clear communication and consideration of your bridal party’s financial situations can help ensure that everyone can participate comfortably and joyfully in your special day,” Dorsey says.