Who Pays For Bridesmaids' Plane Tickets?

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it's also a major financial commitment. There are a lot of expenses that come with the role, including travel and accommodation costs. Typically, bridesmaids are responsible for their own travel and lodging for the wedding night or weekend. This can be a particularly big expense if the wedding is a destination wedding or if there is a bachelorette party in a far-flung location. So, do you pay for your bridesmaids' plane tickets?

Travel and accommodation costs

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. If the wedding is in a destination location, it is typical for guests to pay for their travel and accommodation. However, there are certain expenses that the couple should cover, and they should be mindful of the costs for their bridal party, especially if there is also a destination bachelorette party.

For a destination wedding, guests usually pay for their flights and transfers, as well as their accommodation. However, it is a nice gesture for the couple to cover the cost of transport from the hotel to the wedding venue. This could be in the form of a coach that picks up all the guests and brings them to the venue. It is also a good idea to provide a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to more luxurious, to suit your guests' financial situations.

If the wedding is not in a destination location, it is still typical for bridesmaids to be responsible for their own travel and lodging for the wedding night or weekend. The couple may offer to split the costs of travel and accommodations or set up hotel room blocks at discounted rates. These details should be ironed out a few months in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.

For a bachelorette party, bridesmaids should cover most costs if the celebration is budget-friendly or close to home. However, if it is a destination celebration, it becomes a grey area. While members of the bridal party are expected to pay their own way, they are not truly expected to cover the bride's portion. Instead, they might pitch in for a special dinner or just the bride's hotel costs, but not her airfare. It is important to have a clear game plan and communicate with all attendees.

Outfits and accessories

When it comes to outfits and accessories for bridesmaids, there are a few key considerations. Firstly, it is customary for bridesmaids to pay for their own outfits, including dresses, tuxedos, suits, and shoes. This can be a significant expense, so it is important to communicate honestly and transparently about financial expectations and limitations from the outset.

If the bride has specific outfit requirements, it is considerate to subsidise the cost or cover it entirely as a gift. This is especially thoughtful if the desired attire is particularly expensive or custom-made. In such cases, it is also advisable to give bridesmaids ample time to save up for the outfit or explore more affordable alternatives together.

Bridesmaids are also typically expected to cover the costs of any accessories, such as jewellery, shoes, and hair accessories. To keep costs manageable, it is worth encouraging bridesmaids to shop their own wardrobes or seek out second-hand or discounted options.

When it comes to travelling with these outfits, it is recommended that they are packed in carry-on luggage, ideally in a garment bag that is waterproof and opaque. This ensures the items remain within sight and reduces the risk of loss or damage. It is also a good idea to bring essential accessories, such as shoes and jewellery, as carry-on items, to avoid any last-minute surprises.

For destination weddings, it is considerate for the couple to subsidise travel costs, especially if the bridesmaids have already incurred expenses for a bachelorette party or other pre-wedding events. Clear and timely communication about financial expectations and limitations is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

Hair and makeup

There is no definitive answer to the question of who pays for the bridesmaids' hair and makeup. It depends on several factors, including the financial situation of the bride and bridesmaids, the cost of the services, and the expectations of the bridesmaids.

If the bride requires the bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it is generally expected that she will cover the cost. This is especially true if the bride has chosen an expensive hair and makeup artist or has specific style requirements that are difficult to achieve without professional help. In this case, the bride should communicate her expectations clearly to the bridesmaids and give them enough time to plan and budget accordingly.

On the other hand, if the bride is flexible and allows the bridesmaids to choose whether to do their hair and makeup themselves or hire professionals, it is more common for the bridesmaids to cover their own costs. This gives them the freedom to choose services that fit their budget.

There are also some compromise options. For example, the bride can offer to pay for one service (hair or makeup) and let the bridesmaids decide whether to DIY the other or pay for it themselves. The bride can also choose to cover the gratuities for the hair and makeup artists if the bridesmaids are paying for the services themselves. Another option is to ask a talented friend to help with hair and makeup for any bridesmaids who are unable to afford professional services.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to communication and respect for each other's financial situation. It is important to have open and honest conversations about expectations and budgets early on in the planning process to avoid any misunderstandings or resentment later on.

Bachelorette party

Planning a bachelorette party can be stressful, especially when it comes to finances. While traditionally, the bride doesn't pay for her own "last hurrah", modern bachelorette parties are bigger, longer, and more expensive. Here are some tips and etiquette guidelines to help navigate the financial aspects of a bachelorette party:

Who Pays for the Bachelorette Party?

The simple answer is that everyone is expected to contribute to the costs. However, not all costs should be split equally. Here's a breakdown of the expenses:

• Travel Expenses: Traditionally, the maid of honor and bridesmaids pay for their own travel expenses, including airfare or gas, tolls, and any rideshares/public transportation. For destination bachelorette parties, it is common for the bride to cover her own airfare and share the lodging costs.
• Accommodations: The cost of accommodations, such as hotel or Airbnb fees, security deposits, and parking expenses, is typically split evenly among the bridal party.
• Food and Drinks: The approach to food and drink costs can vary. For a single-day event, the bridesmaids usually pay for the food. However, for multiple meals or dining out, it is essential to figure out a payment plan beforehand. Each person can cover their own tab, or the group can split the costs evenly. Any special drinks or treats for the bride are typically covered by the bridal party.
• Decorations, Favors, and Accessories: These costs are generally covered by the bridesmaids, and the amount spent is up to the group's budget and preferences.
• Activities and Excursions: The bridesmaids usually pay for any activities or excursions, such as spa days, concerts, or group activities. However, for more expensive activities, the bride may pitch in, especially for a weekend getaway.

Tips for Managing Bachelorette Party Finances:

• Communicate Early: It is essential to have open and honest communication with the bride and the bridal party about budgets and expectations.
• Poll the Group: Create an anonymous poll to gauge everyone's budget and comfort level with spending. This can be done using tools like the BACH App or Google Forms.
• Set a Realistic Budget: Consider everyone's financial situation and set a budget that accommodates different requests and financial statuses. Be transparent about the budget from the beginning to ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Use Cost-Splitting Apps: Apps like Splitwise and Venmo can help manage and track expenses, making it easier to reimburse each other.
• Look for Affordable Options: Opt for affordable accommodations, such as Airbnbs or budget-friendly activities, to reduce overall costs.

Remember, the most important aspect of a bachelorette party is celebrating the bride-to-be. While finances can be tricky, open communication and thoughtful planning can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Wedding day transportation

Planning and Booking

It is recommended to start planning and booking wedding transportation early, especially if your wedding is during prom or graduation season when high-class vehicles will be in high demand. Three to six months before the wedding is a good timeframe to start booking. It is also beneficial to inspect the vehicles in person before making a reservation. When booking, consider the type of vehicle you want, which can be themed around your wedding style or location. For example, a sailboat for a nautical-themed wedding or a classic trolley for a romantic wedding in San Francisco.

Number of Vehicles and Capacity

The number of vehicles you will need depends on the size of your bridal party and the distance between locations. If the ceremony and reception venues are more than 30 minutes apart, providing transportation for all guests is considerate. For the bridal party, a smaller vehicle like a Sprinter can be useful to ensure everyone arrives together and on time. The newest trend is for the couple to travel together in a large limo or party bus, allowing them to celebrate with the bridal party before the ceremony.

Budgeting

Transportation can be a significant expense, with costs varying depending on the type of transport and the time required. Stretch limos, for example, can range from $350 to $500 for three hours, while shuttle or party buses can cost between $800 and $1,200. It is important to factor in tipping, gas, and mileage, as these may not be included in the initial quote.

Timing and Logistics

When planning transportation, allow for ample time to account for traffic, unexpected delays, and getting everyone into the vehicles. It is recommended to arrive at the ceremony 15 minutes early and to work backward from there when estimating pick-up times. If the ceremony and reception are at separate locations, ensure there is enough time for guests to get to the next venue, especially if there are activities planned, such as cocktail hour.

Extras and Insurance

Some companies offer extras like onboard bars, TVs, and sunroofs, which can enhance the experience but also add to the cost. It is also worth investing in wedding insurance to cover any potential issues with the transportation company.

Destination Weddings

If you are having a destination wedding, providing transportation is a thoughtful gesture for your guests, who have travelled far to attend. Offering a bus or shuttle service is especially helpful if the wedding location has limited access to taxis or rideshare options.

Communication

Clear communication is essential when organising wedding transportation. Provide the transportation company with a detailed itinerary, including alternate routes in case of traffic jams. Ensure they have contact information for a point person, such as the maid of honour or wedding planner, in case of issues or delays on the wedding day.

In summary, wedding day transportation requires careful planning and consideration, but it can also be a fun and memorable part of the celebration. By booking early, budgeting appropriately, and communicating clearly, you can ensure that everyone, including the bridal party, arrives at the right places at the right times.

Frequently asked questions