A common question asked about destination weddings is about bridal party attire. More specifically: who pays for it? In this article we break down:
- Traditional destination wedding etiquette
- The responsibilities of the bridal party
- Who pays for what (and when)
- Exceptions to the rule
Readers Ask: If I’m travelling out of state or out of country for a wedding – and paying for travel/accomodations – am I also responsible for paying for my bridal attire?
Traditionally, wedding party members will foot the bill for their day of ensemble. Whether it means that the women buy their dress and the men rent their tux for the big day, that’s a part of the responsibility when you accept the role of a bridesmaid or groomsman.
And that includes if you accept the role and the celebration be that of a destination wedding. Along with the responsibility of travel fees, you’ll be expected to pay for your attire as well. Of course, there are times that the bride and groom (or their families) will help with some or all of the expenses – be it the formalwear or the plane tickets.
As the bride and groom, it’s appropriate to not expect your friends and family to go overboard. Draining someone’s bank account that cannot afford to do so isn’t the most tasteful thing to do.
Stay mindful
Other “Expert” Opinions
“Generally, in the US, Britain and Canada, groomsmen and bridesmaids pay for their dresses and suits. They also pay for their accessories, and for their transportation and lodging for the wedding.” – The Spruce
“Worried about the expenses related to have a bridal party? Don’t stress! It’s appropriate for the bridal party to cover their own attire. You can avoid any pre-wedding drama by making sure bridal party knows costs of their attire up front. This gives them the opportunity to decide whether or not they are okay with your expectations, before they decide to play a major role in your big day. Recent trends have the bride covering hair and/or makeup for their bridesmaids, but traditionally, bridesmaids have also covered this cost.” – The Honey Fund
“Your guests will be responsible for their hotel rooms, transportation to and from the destination and any activities and meals outside of wedding events. If your guests are part of the wedding party, the bride and her family traditionally pay for the lodging for the bridesmaids while the groom and his family pay for the groomsmen. The wedding party should expect to pay for outside activities and meals as well as formal attire, travel and grooming. The bride’s family should cover the cost of the reception and ceremony while the groom’s family should pay for rehearsal.” – Bride Box