What’s the Cost of Being a Bridesmaid in 2025? A Realistic Breakdown
In 2025, saying yes to being a bridesmaid often means saying yes to hundreds — or in many cases thousands — of dollars in expenses. Weddings have evolved into full weekend experiences and destination events, and the financial stakes have never been higher.
“These days, weddings feel more like multi-day celebrations and sometimes even mini-vacations,” says Millie Hart, a professional wedding planner. “Bridesmaids are not just showing up for the ceremony — they’re helping plan, attending events, and paying their own way throughout.”
From engagement parties to bridesmaid brunches, bacchanalian bachelorette bashes and destination weddings requiring travel to some far-flung exotic location, the bill is ever-after picking up the tab for the bridesmaid herself. “Brides are flying in with their bridal party days before the wedding for spa sessions, excursions and themed dinners — all of which cost money,” said Lana Ferrel, the guest services director at Oceanis Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic.
Throw in the fact that average wedding costs are climbing (they’re now approximately $36,000 in 2025), and it’s easy to understand why joining the bridal party can be tough on anyone’s wallet.
What’s the Average Bridesmaid Budget in 2025?
Here’s a back-of-the-envelope idea of what you’d spend based on what type of wedding:
- Local wedding: $1,500–$2,500
- Formal/black tie wedding: $2,000-$3,500
- Destination wedding: $3,000–$5,000 and up
- Micro-wedding or elopement: $500 to $1,500
Financial advisor Joanna Elmore suggests each bridesmaid decide on a spending cap right from the start — as in, from $600 all the way up to $2,200, for instance.
What Exactly Do Bridesmaids Pay For?
Here are just a few things bridesmaids are expected to cover:
- Outfit: Dress, shoes, jewellery, alterations
- Beauty services: Hair and makeup, unless supplied by the bride
- Travel and lodging: Flights, hotel and ground transportation
- Gifts: For the bridal shower, wedding, maybe a bachelorette
- Pre-wedding activities: Bachelorette party expenses, decor, group meals
Breakdown of Price by the Type of Wedding
Local Wedding
- Dress: ~$150
- Shoes & accessories: ~$100
- Hair and makeup: ~$250
- Gifts: ~$200
- Occasions: Partys, actress, bachelorette, bridal shower
Estimated total: $600–$1,500
Destination Wedding
- Flights: $400–$800
- Hotel: $500–$1,000
- Extra outfits and activities
Estimated total: $1,500 to $3,500+
Formal/Black-Tie Wedding
- Designer dress: $200–$400
- Professional glam: $250–$400
- Accessories: $150+
Estimated total: $800–$1,500
Micro-Wedding or Elopement
- Simple dress and small gift
Estimated total: $300–$700
Costs Are Going Up for New Trends
Many couples are making their weddings into lifestyle experiences. Consider poolside welcome parties, farewell brunches and coordinated group activities. “The whole concept is to make it one to remember for everyone,” Ferrel said. “But those extras do add up, especially with the bridal party.”
What If You Can’t Afford to Be in the Wedding Party?
Saying no is okay. “All you can do is be honest right from the start,” says planner Millie Hart. “Tell the couple you love them but are unable to make a financial commitment.”
Options are being a bridesmaid alternative, non-bridal party roles, and pitching in. A heartfelt note, a homemade gift or just showing up for the ceremony can make a big difference.
The Bottom Line: Prioritize Your Budget
Being a bridesmaid is an important job — but not at the expense of your financial health. Speak frankly, set limits and remember: Real friends will get it if you need to duck out or scale back.
Weddings are for love and connection, not debt. Your love still counts whether you’re front and center (in a matching dress) or cheering from the sidelines.
