Who Pays for What? The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Party Expenses
Being asked to be a bridesmaid or groomsman is exciting—but it also comes with financial obligations that can sometimes cause stress if expectations aren’t clear. At TravelBash, we’ve helped countless couples navigate wedding planning, including understanding what bridal party members should—and shouldn’t—pay for.
This guide breaks down who typically covers what, how to handle tricky conversations about money, and what etiquette rules apply so everyone can enjoy the celebration without awkward misunderstandings.
What Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Should Pay For
Bridal party members typically cover expenses related to their personal appearance, travel, and pre-wedding events. While specific costs can vary depending on the couple’s expectations and wedding style, here’s a breakdown of what’s commonly expected:
1. Wedding Attire
Bridesmaids: Dresses, alterations, undergarments, shoes, and accessories.
Groomsmen: Suit or tuxedo rental/purchase, shoes, ties, and pocket squares.
TravelBash Tip: Make sure the couple communicates the expected attire budget before finalizing bridal party commitments.
2. Hair & Makeup (Sometimes)
If hair and makeup services are required, bridesmaids typically pay for their own unless the couple covers this as a gift or part of the wedding package.
Pro Tip: If specific styles or professional makeup are required, consider offering to cover part or all of the costs to avoid tension.
3. Travel & Accommodation
Flights/Transportation: Bridal party members cover their travel to the wedding destination.
Lodging: They usually pay for hotel stays unless the couple has reserved a block of rooms with negotiated rates.
When It’s Different: If the wedding is in a remote location, couples may help offset some costs, especially for close family members in the bridal party.
4. Pre-Wedding Events & Bachelor/Bachelorette Party
Party Costs: Bridal party members typically split the cost of throwing pre-wedding celebrations, including bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Gifts for the Couple: Group gifts or shared experiences like spa days or adventure excursions are common.
5. Wedding Day Accessories & Grooming
Bridesmaids: Jewelry, clutch bags, wraps, and beauty supplies.
Groomsmen: Cufflinks, grooming products, and beard/mustache care.
What Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Shouldn’t Pay For
It’s important to set financial boundaries. Here are things the couple should cover:
1. Wedding Day Meals & Drinks
Meals on the wedding day should be provided by the couple, including snacks during hair and makeup, rehearsal dinner, and reception food and drinks.
2. Day-Of Transportation
Any transportation between the ceremony and reception, such as a shuttle or limo, should be arranged and paid for by the couple.
3. Wedding Day Attire Extras (If Required)
Special Requests: If the couple requests specific outfits or add-ons (e.g., matching robes, custom suits, or high-end shoes), they should cover the extra cost.
4. Bridal Party Gifts & Welcome Bags
Gifts for the bridal party should always come from the couple as a token of appreciation for their support.
5. Hotel Stays for the Wedding Night
If the couple wants everyone to stay at a particular hotel or resort, they should consider covering the bridal party’s accommodations (especially if the wedding is remote or on a resort)
6. Wedding Planner or Coordinator Fees
Any professional services related to the wedding day should be included in the wedding budget—not passed along to the bridal party.
How to Talk About Money with Your Bridal Party
Money can be a sensitive topic, but good communication makes everything easier. Here’s how to set clear expectations without awkwardness:
1. Be Transparent Early On
When Asking Someone to Join Your Bridal Party: Mention the general financial expectations upfront. “We’re so excited to have you as part of our wedding! We’ll be getting married in Tulum, and we expect guests to pay for their flights and accommodations.”
2. Create a Detailed Budget Breakdown
Share a budget overview so everyone knows what to expect. Consider creating a shared Google Sheet with estimated costs for attire, travel, and pre-wedding events.
3. Offer Flexibility
Be open to discussing financial limitations. If someone can’t afford certain expenses, offer affordable options like mix-and-match dresses or lower-cost travel suggestions.
4. Give Plenty of Notice
Send save-the-dates early so your bridal party can plan and budget ahead.
5. Set Up Payment Plans (for Destination Weddings)
Consider working with a travel advisor like TravelBash to create customized payment plans for accommodations and group travel bookings.
Bridal Party Gifting Etiquette
Bridesmaids and groomsmen are expected to give gifts—but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Here’s what you should know:
Bridal Party Gifts for the Couple:
Group Gifts: Splitting a meaningful, higher-value gift (e.g., a home appliance or honeymoon excursion) is common.
Sentimental Gifts: Handwritten letters, photo books, or personalized keepsakes are always special.
Couple’s Gifts for the Bridal Party:
Must-Have Gifts: Personalized items like embroidered robes, jewelry, or travel bags.
Unique Ideas: Experience-based gifts, spa certificates, or custom event accessories.
Bridal Party Expenses: FAQs
Q: Do bridesmaids have to pay for their dresses?
A: Yes, bridesmaids are usually responsible for buying their dresses, unless the couple specifies otherwise.
Q: Should the bridal party pay for travel to a destination wedding?
A: Yes, flights and hotel stays are typically the bridal party’s responsibility, though some couples cover a portion for close family members.
Q: Who pays for the bachelorette party?
A: The bridal party usually splits the cost unless the couple offers to cover certain expenses.
Q: Should groomsmen pay for suit rentals?
A: Yes, unless the couple decides to cover the cost as a gift.
Final Thoughts: Make It Work for Everyone
Understanding who pays for what can reduce stress and set the right expectations for your bridal party. At the end of the day, your wedding should feel like a joyful celebration—not a financial burden. Communicate openly, be considerate of budgets, and keep the experience fun for everyone involved.
Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.
