5 Tips To Reduce Bridal Entourage Costs

Planning a dream wedding on a tight budget can be challenging, especially when you have a big bridal party to consider. The bridal party, which includes the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and flower girls, can add a high cost to your wedding budget. Not only does a large entourage mean shelling out more money for frills and thrills, but it also requires setting aside funds for the bridesmaids and groomsmen’s attire.

But fear not! If you’re creative and resourceful enough, you can keep your bridal party small and their costs low. So, make those budget blues a thing of the past and create a memorable and intimate celebration that you’ll cherish forever as a happily married couple. With careful planning and budgeting, you can reduce the costs associated with the bridal entourage.

Here are some tips on how to do this:

1. Encourage Bridesmaids To Share The Expenses

Bridesmaids can often save money by purchasing their shoes instead of a specific pair chosen by the bride. Encourage them to select a pair of shoes they already own or can wear again after the wedding. You can also check outlets and online shops like Brand House Direct for a range of stilettos and sandals for women that can meet your budget.

The same goes for groomsmen with pairs of black or formal shoes and attire just waiting for a special occasion. Another tip is to ask your bridesmaids if they can pay for their hair and makeup services. Alternatively, consider having a friend or family member do their hair and makeup. That way, the event feels more intimate and budget-friendly, too.

2. Keep The Bridal Party Small

One of the most effective ways to reduce bridal entourage costs is to keep the size of the bridal party small. Aiming for a party of 3-4 pairs, including the maid-of-honour, allows you to carefully curate the perfect attire for each member without sacrificing quality. However, if you’re looking to keep things extra cosy, even a smaller entourage is a viable option.

But beware, if your bridal party starts to creep past the 6-10 mark, you may need help to keep costs down for each outfit. With a larger group, the challenge of finding affordable yet stylish ensembles for everyone only increases. So, keep it small and chic, and you’ll be able to focus on the more critical details of your big day. You can also consider having only a maid of honour and best man or limiting the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

3. Set A Budget For Bridesmaids’ Attire

Bridesmaids’ dresses can be expensive, so setting a budget for their attire can help control costs. Consider choosing a dress that can be worn again after the wedding or opting for a neutral colour that can be easily incorporated into their existing wardrobe. See if they can wear dresses they’ve already purchased or can easily purchase. This can help save money and ensure that everyone is comfortable in their attire.

For budget-conscious couples, renting gowns and suits for your bridal party is the way to go. Take the time to explore a variety of gown boutiques and try on as many options as possible. When you find the perfect gowns for your bridesmaids, you’ll know – you’ll feel a rush of excitement imagining how gorgeous they’ll look standing by your side on the big day.

Don’t give up your search for the ideal attire for your bridal party. Remember, by keeping the size of your entourage small, you’ll have less to worry about in terms of cost. So, let your creativity run wild and find the perfect gowns for your stunning bridesmaids. Your day will be all the more special because of it.

4. Opt For DIY Decorations

DIY decorations can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing expensive flowers or décor. Consider having the bridesmaids make their own bouquets or centrepieces or incorporating DIY elements into the wedding décor.

Avoid matching accessories for bridesmaids and flower girls, such as jewellery or clutches. Instead, allow them to choose their own accessories or provide a general colour scheme for them to follow.

5. Plan A Simple And Inexpensive Bridal Shower

A bridal shower is an opportunity for the bridesmaids to show their love and support for the bride, but it can also be expensive. Consider hosting a simple and inexpensive bridal shower, such as a tea party or a potluck dinner.

There’s no need to start with a specific theme in mind. A great tip is to assess what free props or decorations are available. Did someone you know recently host a bridal shower and have leftover decorations or party favours?

A friend may have some decorative items at home that would work perfectly for your event, like globes and vintage-inspired pieces that could be transformed into a wanderlust-themed celebration. By making the most of what you have, you can save money and create a memorable event as the bride-to-be.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can reduce the costs associated with the bridal entourage and ensure that your wedding day is stress-free and budget-friendly. It’s important to remember that an essential part of your wedding day is the love and commitment between you and your partner and that everything else is secondary. By focusing on the love and joy of your wedding day, you can create a beautiful and memorable celebration without breaking the bank.