Wedding Attendants Carry Financial Obligations

We invite the nearest and dearest people in our lives to be our wedding attendants. One thing you should always keep in mind, however, is the financial commitment made by your wedding attendants. Such a commitment requires financial and emotional support, and you must realize that by accepting the honor, the cash register starts ringing for those you ask.

Usually, the number of wedding attendants in your wedding party depends on the number of guests you have. Many bridal professionals recommend one usher per 40 to 50 guests. Therefore, if you’re inviting 40 or 50 people, it’s optional, but not mandatory, for you and your groom to each have a single attendant. It is not essential to have matching numbers of female and male attendants, unless the ceremony requires the men to escort the women back up the aisle during the recessional.

Traditionally, wedding attendants pay for their wedding attire, travel expenses and a wedding gift. Frequently, they’re also expected to host a shower or bachelor’s party. The bridal couple provides accommodations for out-of-town attendants. They also usually order and pay for all the flowers to be worn or carried. Yet who pays for what often becomes an issue of affordability. There are no unbreakable rules.

Have a frank discussion about expenses with your attendants. In most weddings, at least one attendant faces excessive financial pressures. In such cases, help from you is essential. Some brides offer to pay half the cost of the bridesmaids’ dresses. Some give their wedding attendants wedding jewelry, shoes and hosiery as gifts. Give your friends an easy out if they can’t afford to be part of the wedding.

It’s considerate to get a consensus on price limits for dresses, accessories and social events. If you decide on more costly choices, you should cover the difference.

There are many ways to factor money limitations into your plans and save your attendants’ money. These can include:

Select a dress your bridesmaids can wear again. Style and color should be your main considerations. Classic designs and conservative colors usually are your best options.
Remember that, although most bridesmaids dresses come in a range of sizes, not every dress is flattering to your more mature or full-figured attendants.
To avoid expensive alterations, don’t rush the measurements process. Question measurements that seem wrong.
Don’t ask your wedding attendants to host a shower or party. Use relatives and other close friends as alternatives.
Cover some expenses in lieu of giving them gifts, and ask them not to buy gifts for you because their involvement is “more than enough.”
Being your bridesmaid or groomsmen should be an exciting, pleasurable experience for those you ask. Always keep in mind how much time, effort and money they can afford. Do everything possible not to take advantage of their affection and commitment.

 

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