The (Financial) Cost of being part of a Wedding

On the way in to work this morning on the radio they were talking about how much it costs to be a bridesmaid these days.  Now I haven't been in a wedding (that wasn't my own) in quite sometime, but I do not remember it costing $1,700!!  I bet you are thinking that the same thing that I am, you have got to be kidding.  When I did a quick google search on the cost of being a groomsmen that  comes in at just $400 dollars.  I don't believe that number either, how is it $1,300 cheaper?  So, I got to thinking about all the expenses related to a wedding and how quickly they can add up.




Aren't we pretty?

Wedding Outfit

• a bridesmaids dress with alternations will run about $200, add another $75.00 for shoes. 
• Tuxes average around $100 and include the shoes (boys apparently don't care)

Hair and Make Up

• a bridesmaid will probably spend around $150 to have their make-up and hair done on the big day
• Groomsmen, $20 for a haircut

Bridal Shower

• if a bridesmaid is helping to host (which she should be) it will run her around $150 (at least) $200 with present
• Groomsmen = n/a

Bachelor/Bachelorette Party

• So with the travel (from what I understand now, these are 'weekend getaways') you are looking at $500 to $600 dollars for travel and hotel alone, add in the new clothes and drinks $1,000
• Add in the strippers and take away the new clothes and you are even at $1,000

So, these are only a few of the big spends that are associated with a wedding, there could be travel to the wedding, engagement & wedding gifts.  So much. 

This just seems outrageous to me.  I would love to know what everyone thinks....send me your thoughts, I would love to hear them..

~Cyn