Franklin Dean
Being a bridesmaid can be a complicated and expensive role, with expectations and expenses to manage. While there are no hard and fast rules, it is widely accepted that brides will cover the cost of their bridesmaids' dresses, hair and makeup, travel and accommodation, bouquets, and accessories. However, bridesmaids often incur other costs, such as shoes, the bridal shower, bachelorette party, and wedding gifts. To thank their bridesmaids, brides may opt for gifts such as jewellery, robes, pyjamas, or other personalised items.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gifts | Robes, pyjamas, shirts, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, candles, chocolates, tote bags, tumblers, travel mugs, makeup bags, clutches, wine glasses, champagne, picture frames, sleep masks, sheet masks, pearls, cosmetic bags, bath bombs, turkish towels, wallets, perfume, lip balm, etc. |
| Costs covered by the bride | Hair and makeup, bouquets, transportation, accommodation, dresses, shoes, accessories, jewellery, etc. |
Jewellery
Style and Theme
Firstly, think about the style and theme of your wedding. You'll want the jewellery to complement the dresses, colour scheme, and overall aesthetic of your wedding. Consider if you want the jewellery to make a statement or be more understated and delicate. Do you want it to be a standalone piece, or would you prefer it to be coordinated with other accessories, like hairpieces or shoes?
Personalisation
Personalised jewellery is always a thoughtful option. You can get the jewellery engraved with your bridesmaids' names, initials, the wedding date, or a meaningful message. This adds a unique and sentimental touch to the gift and makes it even more memorable for your bridesmaids.
Metals and Gemstones
Different metals and gemstones symbolise various things and carry different meanings. For instance, gold jewellery is a classic and elegant choice, versatile enough to complement various colour schemes. Pearl jewellery is another popular option for bridesmaids, offering versatility and a range of styles. If you're on a budget, consider sterling silver, which is more affordable yet still adds charm and style.
Sets and Matching Pieces
You can opt for jewellery sets that include items such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or rings. Matching sets can create a cohesive look for your bridesmaids, and they can also be a fun way to mix and match pieces to suit their individual styles.
Timing and Presentation
Consider when you want to give your bridesmaids their gifts. Some people choose to present them at the rehearsal dinner, especially if it's something they can wear on the wedding day. You could also give the gifts shortly before or after the wedding, like at a farewell brunch, or even turn it into a fun moment during the wedding preparations.
Budget
Finally, consider your budget. You don't have to break the bank to find meaningful jewellery gifts. Think about your overall wedding budget and decide how much you can allocate to each gift. Remember, it's the thought that counts, and your bridesmaids will surely appreciate the sentiment behind the gift, regardless of its price tag.
There are plenty of options available, and you can easily find something that aligns with your wedding vision and expresses your gratitude to your bridesmaids.
Bridesmaids' Fake Bouquets: A Stylish and Cost-Effective Choice
You may want to see also
Travel and accommodation
When it comes to travel and accommodation for your bridesmaids, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to communicate with your bridesmaids early on about what costs they will be responsible for. This will help to avoid any last-minute surprises and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Traditionally, bridesmaids are expected to cover their own travel and accommodation costs. This includes travel to and from the wedding, as well as any accommodation needed the night before or the night of the wedding. However, if you are asking your bridesmaids to stay in a specific location, such as the wedding venue or a particular hotel, it is considerate to offer to pay for or subsidise the cost. This is especially important if you are having a destination wedding or if the bridesmaids are travelling a long distance to attend.
If you are unable to cover the full cost of travel and accommodation, there are a few alternatives. You could offer to pay for a portion of the cost, such as their transport or a night of accommodation. Alternatively, you could suggest that they share rooms or transport to reduce the overall expense.
It is also important to be flexible and considerate of your bridesmaids' financial situations. If you know that some of your bridesmaids are unable to afford the travel and accommodation costs, you may want to discuss other options with them. This could include offering your own home as a place to stay or helping them find more affordable alternatives.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to pay for your bridesmaids' travel and accommodation depends on your own financial situation and the expectations of your bridesmaids. It is always a kind gesture to offer some form of assistance, especially if you are asking them to travel a long distance or incur significant expenses.
Who Were Meghan Markle's Bridesmaids?
You may want to see also
Hair and makeup
There are several options for brides when it comes to hair and makeup for their bridesmaids. The first is to cover all the costs for their bridesmaids' hair and makeup. This is the most traditional arrangement and allows the bride to have more control over the beauty agenda for the big day. However, this option can be expensive and difficult to coordinate.
The second option is to let bridesmaids opt in and pay for their own hair and makeup. This approach gives bridesmaids freedom to choose their preferred hair and makeup artists and is more cost-effective for the bride, especially if she has a large bridal party.
The third option is for the bride and bridesmaids to split the cost of hair and makeup services. This can be done by subsidising the costs, offering to pay for a portion of the services, or covering the cost of either hair or makeup. This option allows the bride to treat her bridesmaids and make them feel extra beautiful without breaking the bank.
If the bride is requiring her bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it is generally expected that she will cover the costs. However, if it is optional for the bridesmaids, they will usually be expected to pay for the services themselves.
The average cost of wedding hair and makeup services is $130 and $120, respectively, but prices can vary depending on location and the artist's level of experience and fame.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of who pays for bridesmaids' hair and makeup. The decision depends on the bride's budget, the size of the bridal party, and the preferences of the bridesmaids themselves.
Maya Rudolph's Bridesmaids Performance: A Standout Role
You may want to see also
Dresses and accessories
If the bride is not paying for the dresses, it is important to have an open and honest conversation about expectations and expenses early in the planning process. This can help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and can plan accordingly. It is also important to be flexible and offer choices where possible.
In terms of accessories, bridesmaids are typically expected to provide their own shoes and accessories, such as jewellery. However, if the bride prefers the bridesmaids to wear matching jewellery, she may choose to provide this as a gift. Some bridal parties may also opt to wear matching shoes, but this is usually purchased by the bridesmaids.
It is also worth noting that the bride may choose to cover other costs for the bridesmaids, such as hair and makeup, transportation, or accommodation. Again, this depends on the bride's budget and preferences.
Maroon Bridesmaids: A Summer Wedding Color Choice?
You may want to see also
Gifts
Gifting your bridesmaids is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their support and contribution to your wedding. While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended and is a great way to create mementos of the occasion. Here are some ideas for bridesmaid gifts:
Jewellery
Jewellery is a popular choice for bridesmaid gifts, especially if you want your bridesmaids to wear matching pieces on your wedding day. You can gift them necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings that they can wear during the wedding and cherish for years to come. Some brides opt for personalised or monogrammed jewellery, adding an extra special touch.
Robes or Pyjamas
Bridesmaids often receive robes or pyjamas to wear while getting ready for the wedding. These can be comfortable and convenient, especially if you want them to match for photos. However, some bridesmaids may prefer pyjama shirts or button-up shirts for more coverage and reusability.
Cosmetic Items and Self-Care Products
Cosmetic items and self-care products can be a great way to treat your bridesmaids. You can gift them makeup, skincare, bath products, candles, or other items that encourage relaxation and self-care. These gifts can be personalised or customised to add a special touch.
Bags and Totes
Bags and totes are practical gifts that your bridesmaids can use during the wedding and beyond. You can opt for cosmetic bags, tote bags, clutches, or weekend bags in styles and colours that suit your bridesmaids' tastes.
Drinkware
Drinkware, such as mugs, tumblers, wine glasses, or champagne flutes, can be a fun and useful gift for your bridesmaids. These can be personalised with their names, initials, or a special message.
Other Accessories
Other accessories like scarves, hair accessories, or shoes can also make great gifts. You can choose items that complement their bridesmaid outfits or something more versatile that they can wear again.
Remember, when choosing gifts for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider their individual tastes, preferences, and what they might actually use or appreciate. You can also include a handwritten thank-you card to express your gratitude.
Bridesmaids' Dress Colors: Ivory and Moscato Wedding
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Bridesmaids often pay for their own dresses, accessories, hair, makeup, and travel, so it's a nice gesture to cover some of these costs if you can. If not, you could gift them something they can use again, like a robe, pyjamas, or a piece of jewellery.
No, but it's highly recommended. It's a nice way to show your appreciation and it can serve as a memento of the occasion.
You can give them their gifts shortly before or after the wedding, such as at the rehearsal dinner or farewell brunch. You could also give them on the wedding day, but finding a time and place might be tricky.
