Who Pays For Bridesmaids' Dresses In Ireland?

There is no definitive answer to the question of who pays for bridesmaids' dresses, and traditions vary across the world. In Ireland, it is traditional for the bride or the couple to pay, especially if the bride has a specific dress in mind. If the bride is flexible, the bridesmaids can choose and purchase their own dresses, or a compromise may be reached where the bridesmaids pay but run their choices by the bride.

Tradition in Ireland

In Ireland, the tradition is for the bride or the couple to pay for the bridesmaids' dresses, especially if the bride has a specific dress or type of dress in mind. This is considered a thoughtful gesture, and it is seen as a way to thank the bridesmaids for their support and participation in the wedding.

If the bride is flexible and allows the bridesmaids to choose their own dresses, they may purchase their own outfits. In this case, the bridesmaids are expected to run their choices by the bride and each other to ensure their looks complement each other and fit the aesthetic of the wedding.

It is important to note that being a bridesmaid in Ireland can be a financial commitment, as there may be other expenses such as bridal shower costs, bachelorette parties, hair and makeup, and transportation.

While the tradition in Ireland is for the bride or couple to pay for the bridesmaids' dresses, it is always a good idea to communicate openly and be transparent about financial expectations and budgets to avoid any misunderstandings or stress.

Other countries' traditions

Traditions vary across the world when it comes to who pays for bridesmaids' dresses. Here is an overview of some countries' traditions:

United States

In the US, it is traditional for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses, regardless of whether the bride is making the final decision on what the dresses will look like. It is considered a nice gesture for the bride to offer to pay half the cost of the dresses, especially if she knows that one or more of her bridesmaids is strapped for cash.

United Kingdom

Traditions in the UK vary, but in most cases, the bride or couple pays for the bridesmaids' dresses, particularly if the bride has a specific dress or type of dress in mind. If the bride is flexible and allows bridesmaids to choose and purchase their own dresses, they may pay for them themselves.

Canada

In Canada, it is customary for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses, even if the bride chooses the dress. If the bride is flexible and allows for a certain colour or style, it is still generally expected that the bridesmaids will pay.

Australia

Similarly to the US and Canada, in Australia, bridesmaids typically pay for their own dresses, regardless of who makes the final decision.

Asia

In some parts of Asia, it is not normal for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses. The bride or couple usually covers the cost, especially if they have a specific dress in mind.

Budgeting for the dress

• Discuss expectations early on: Be transparent about your vision for the dresses, including any specific requirements or budget constraints. Have open conversations with your bridesmaids to understand their financial situation and be willing to compromise if needed.
• Offer flexibility: If you are set on a particular style or colour, consider covering the cost of the dresses yourself. On the other hand, if you are open to different options, let your bridesmaids choose their own dresses within a specified colour scheme. This gives them more control over their budget.
• Explore affordable options: Work with your bridesmaids to find dresses that align with their budgets. Suggest shopping at thrift stores, online marketplaces, or budget-friendly websites. By showing consideration for their financial situation, you can help alleviate some of the financial stress associated with being a bridesmaid.
• Be mindful of additional costs: Remember that the dress is just one part of the overall expense for your bridesmaids. They may also need to budget for accessories, hair and makeup, travel, and accommodation. If possible, offer to cover some of these additional costs or suggest ways to keep these expenses manageable.
• Plan ahead: Give your bridesmaids ample time to save up for the dress. The earlier you finalise the dress choice, the more time they will have to prepare financially. Also, look into payment plans offered by dress shops to make the expense more manageable.
• Consider alternatives: If one of your bridesmaids is unable to afford the dress, work together to find a solution. You may opt for a less expensive dress, mismatched dresses, or explore the option of them taking on a different role in the wedding that doesn't require the same financial commitment.

Remember, open communication and consideration for your bridesmaids' budgets are key to successfully navigating this aspect of wedding planning.

The bride's expectations

As the bride, I would like to ensure that my bridesmaids feel comfortable and happy with their dresses. I understand that being a bridesmaid can be a costly endeavour, so I want to be mindful of their budgets. I expect to have open and transparent communication with my bridesmaids about their financial capabilities and expectations.

I will be choosing the colour scheme and general style of the dresses, and I am happy to be flexible and work with my bridesmaids to find options that suit their preferences and body types. If the bridesmaids are choosing their own dresses, I will ask that they run their choices by me and each other to ensure that their looks complement each other and fit the aesthetic of the wedding.

I expect to cover the costs of the bridesmaids' dresses, especially if I have a specific dress or type of dress in mind. However, if a bridesmaid is unable to afford the dress, I am open to discussing alternative options, such as payment plans or less expensive alternatives. I do not want anyone to feel strained financially because of my wedding.

In addition to the dresses, I understand that there may be other financial expectations for my bridesmaids, such as gifts, the bridal shower, bachelorette party, and travel expenses. I will communicate these expectations clearly and am open to finding solutions that work for everyone.

I want my bridesmaids to feel valued and appreciated, and I will express my gratitude for their time, effort, and financial contributions. I understand that being a bridesmaid is a significant honour and commitment, and I will respect their input and feedback throughout the process.

Other costs for bridesmaids

Being a bridesmaid comes with a lot of financial commitments. While traditions vary across the world, in Ireland, the bride or the couple usually pays for the bridesmaids' dresses, especially if they have a specific dress in mind. If the bride is flexible with the outfits, she may suggest that the bridesmaids choose and purchase their own dresses.

Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party

Bridesmaids are expected to throw the bride several pre-wedding parties, including the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. These events can be expensive, with about a third of bachelorette party-goers spending over $1000. If the bachelorette party is a destination event, it can cost a bridesmaid nearly $400.

Accessories, Hair, and Makeup

Bridesmaids often have to purchase accessories, such as shoes, nails, hairpieces, and jewellery, to go with their dresses. They may also have to pay for professional hair and makeup services, which can cost around $72 and $60 respectively.

Travel and Accommodation

If the wedding is not in the bridesmaid's city, they will have to bear the cost of travel and accommodation. On average, a bridesmaid spends $115 on travel and $205 on accommodations.

Wedding Gift

Despite incurring all the above costs, bridesmaids are still expected to give a wedding gift to the couple. On average, a bridesmaid spends $125 on a wedding gift, usually something from the couple's registry.

Pre-Wedding Event Attire

There are often multiple events leading up to the wedding, such as engagement parties, and bridesmaids may need to purchase additional outfits for these occasions.

Wedding Day Essentials

Bridesmaids are responsible for bringing their own wedding day essentials, such as toiletries, medicine, touch-up makeup, and a change of clothes.

It is important to note that costs can vary depending on the bride and the wedding. Open communication about financial expectations is crucial to ensure that everyone is on the same page and to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Frequently asked questions