Bachelorette Party: Who Pays For What?

Planning a bachelorette party is one of the most exciting parts of being a bridesmaid, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to money. The short answer is that everyone is expected to contribute to the costs. However, the long answer is more complicated, as not all costs should be split equally. The average cost of a bachelorette party is about $1,000 per person for a three-night stay, excluding flights. If you're travelling out of town, you'll be responsible for your own transportation and accommodation. Meals, drinks, and group activities are usually covered by the bridesmaids, but it's important to have a conversation about budget beforehand to set realistic expectations.

Travel and accommodation

When it comes to travel and accommodation, the costs can vary depending on the location and duration of the bachelorette party. Here are some things to consider:

Travel Expenses

If the bachelorette party is local, travel expenses for bridesmaids may include gas, tolls, or ridesharing/public transportation costs to and from the accommodations. For a destination bachelorette party, bridesmaids will also need to factor in round-trip flight costs and any rental car or ridesharing fees. These travel expenses are typically covered by the bridesmaids themselves.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation costs refer to hotel or rental home fees, including security deposits and parking expenses. These costs are usually split equally among the bridesmaids and any other attendees. It's important to double-check what is included in the rental to avoid extra fees, such as rental sheets or towels.

Cost-Saving Alternatives

To save money on accommodations, consider opting for a less expensive option like Airbnb or reaching out to the rental company directly to bypass certain fees. Additionally, if the bachelorette party is local, some bridesmaids may choose to stay in their own homes to reduce accommodation costs.

Planning and Payment

To streamline the payment process, it's recommended to designate one person, usually the maid of honor, to manage the budget and track expenses. This person will be responsible for requesting payments or putting down their card to secure reservations. It's essential to have open and honest communication about budgets and expectations to ensure everyone is comfortable with the financial commitments involved in the bachelorette party.

In summary, travel and accommodation costs for a bachelorette party can vary depending on the location and duration of the event. Bridesmaids typically cover their own travel expenses and split accommodation costs equally. To save money, consider cost-saving alternatives like opting for less expensive accommodations or staying local. Effective planning and communication are key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.

Meals and drinks

Local Bachelorette Parties:

If you're hosting or attending a local bachelorette party, it is customary for the bridesmaids and other invited guests to cover the costs of their own meals and drinks, as well as those of the bride. This typically includes dinner, drinks, and any other activities during the night on the town.

Destination Bachelorette Parties:

For destination bachelorette parties involving travel and multiple days of celebrations, the expenses become a bit more nuanced. Here's a breakdown:

• Travel and Accommodation: Each bridesmaid and guest are generally expected to pay for their own travel expenses, such as flights, train tickets, or gas mileage. When it comes to accommodation, such as hotel rooms or Airbnb, each attendee is responsible for chipping in to cover their portion.
• Meals and Drinks: The bridesmaids and guests usually cover the costs of their own meals and drinks. Additionally, they often split the cost of the bride's meals and drinks, treating her to dinner and beverages as a token of celebration and appreciation. To keep costs manageable, opt for casual restaurants, takeout, or even a night of cooking at the accommodation. You can also suggest one or two more upscale dining experiences during the trip.
• Special Experiences: If there are specific activities or excursions that the bride is keen on, such as a show or a concert, it is considerate for her to treat the group to tickets, especially if it is an expensive experience. On the other hand, if the guests want to surprise the bride with a special experience, they should cover the cost themselves or even reach out to the bride's partner to contribute.

General Tips:

• Communication is key: Discuss budgets and expectations with the bride and the entire group early on. This will help set realistic expectations and ensure that everyone is comfortable with the financial commitments.
• Poll the group: Use anonymous polls to understand everyone's budget and comfort level with spending. This will help you plan accordingly and ensure that the celebrations remain inclusive and enjoyable for all.
• BYO (Bring Your Own): If the group is spending downtime at the hotel or rental house, suggest that everyone bring their own drinks and snacks to reduce costs.
• Optional Activities: Make any extracurricular activities or expensive experiences optional. This ensures that no one feels pressured to participate if it doesn't fit within their budget.

Remember, the most important aspect of the bachelorette party is celebrating the bride-to-be, and there are many ways to make the event special without breaking the bank.

Decorations and favours

• Bachelorette party-themed decorations, such as balloons, banners, and streamers in the bridal colours or with fun messages. These can be easily purchased online or from party supply stores.
• Personalised items like temporary tattoos, stickers, or buttons with the bride's name or face on them. These can be fun favours for the guests to wear during the party.
• Games and activities such as "Pin the Junk on the Hunk" or "Drunk In Love Bachelorette Weekend" can be a fun way to break the ice and get everyone involved. These can often be purchased as printable files or custom kits.
• Food and drink are always a good idea, and you can provide treats like cookies, candy, or even edible glitter to sprinkle on drinks.
• Hangover kits are a thoughtful favour idea, and you can include items like pain relievers, eye masks, and water to help everyone recover from the night's festivities.
• Party cups, straws, and can coolers can be a fun and practical favour, especially if they are personalised or in the bridal colours.
• For a spa-themed party, you could provide sheet masks, eye masks, or other skincare treats for the guests to use.
• Accessories like headbands, hair clips, or even custom tote bags can be a fun way to get everyone involved and create a unified look for the party.
• If you're looking for something more unique, you could consider custom face tattoos of the happy couple or inflatable dolls.

Remember, the key is to have fun and create a memorable experience for the bride and the guests. You can find many of these items online or in party supply stores, and don't be afraid to get creative and personalise the decorations and favours to match the bride's personality and the party's theme.

Activities and entertainment

Planning a bachelorette party can be a costly affair, with the average cost of a bachelorette party being about $1,000 per person for a three-night stay, excluding flights. The activities and entertainment you choose for the bachelorette party can significantly impact the overall cost. Here are some ideas to consider:

Local Bachelorette Party Ideas:

• Party Bus Rental: Renting a party bus can be a fun way to transport the bridal party around town. This option often includes drinks and music, creating a festive atmosphere for the group.
• Spa Day: A day at the spa can be a relaxing and indulgent experience for the bridal party. This could include massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and other beauty treatments.
• Boat Ride: Taking a boat ride, whether on a yacht or a pedal pub crawl, can be a unique way to enjoy the local scenery and spend quality time with the bridal party.
• Concert or Show: Attending a concert or show can be an exciting group activity. Look for performances by local artists or choose a theme that aligns with the bride's interests.
• Local Hike or Picnic: For a more low-key option, organize a local hike or picnic in the park. This can be a budget-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors and create memorable experiences.

Destination Bachelorette Party Ideas:

• Weekend Getaway: If the budget allows, a weekend getaway to a nearby city or a desired destination can be a fun escape for the bridal party. This could include accommodations, group meals, and exploring local attractions.
• Beach Vacation: A beach vacation is always a popular choice for bachelorette parties. Whether it's a tropical island or a nearby coastal town, sun, sand, and sea can provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Outdoor Adventures: Consider planning outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, or exploring nature reserves. These activities can be thrilling and offer opportunities for unique group photos and memories.
• Wine Tasting or Brewery Tour: A wine tasting or brewery tour can be an enjoyable way to learn about local beverages and sample different drinks. This option often includes transportation and light snacks, making it a fun addition to the itinerary.
• Cooking Class or Workshop: Participating in a cooking class or workshop can be an interactive and tasty experience for the group. Look for classes that teach making local cuisine or focus on the bride's favorite type of food.

Remember, it is essential to have open and honest communication about budgets and financial expectations with the bridal party and the bride. Be considerate of everyone's financial situation, and feel free to suggest budget-friendly alternatives or optional activities to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive celebration.

Gifts and souvenirs

• Bridesmaids' Gifts to the Bride: The bridesmaids often pay for gifts to the bride, such as matching robes, slippers, small gift bags, or a round of drinks. These gifts are usually not very expensive, as the bridesmaids already bear other costs. It is a thoughtful way to thank the bride for spending time and money on the bachelorette party.
• Bride's Gifts to the Bridesmaids: The bride may also want to show her gratitude to the bridesmaids by gifting them souvenirs or treats, such as a mani-pedi before the party or a basket of lingerie for the wedding night.
• Party Favors and Decorations: The maid of honor and bridesmaids usually split the cost of party favors and decorations. This can include balloons, party veils, tattoos, streamers, and other fun props. These items are typically inexpensive and can be bought online. It is important to discuss a budget beforehand to ensure everyone is comfortable with the expenses.
• Shared Party Supplies: The bridesmaids are responsible for splitting the cost of shared party supplies, such as snacks, alcohol, decorations, or matching t-shirts. These expenses can add up, so it is essential to have an open conversation about budgets and expectations.
• Optional Extras: Any optional extras, such as a special experience or excursion, should be paid for by the bride if she requests it. If the bridesmaids plan a surprise experience for the bride, they should cover the cost. These experiences should always be considered optional, as they may not fit everyone's budget.

When it comes to gifts and souvenirs, it is essential to communicate openly and consider everyone's budget. The bachelorette party is about celebrating the bride, but it should not break the bank for anyone involved. Discussing budgets anonymously can help ensure everyone's comfort and create a fun and stress-free planning process.

Frequently asked questions