Once, weddings were single-day events used by couples to express their love and bond in the presence of their dear ones. But now, they have evolved into a $51 billion dollar industry necessitating a year-long pledge from friends and family. This includes engagement parties, bachelor and bachelorette bashes, bridal showers, and of course, the wedding.
If you’re fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on your viewpoint) enough to feature in the bridal party, brace yourself for significant expenditure. From gifts to trips and outings, the costs can quickly pile up, leading to a serious dent in your finances.
Bachelorette parties have transformed from mere one-night fun affairs into multi-day commitments that could potentially stretch over an entire week, often clocking up the expense. What were simply enjoyable nights with friends are now turning into luxurious jaunts to places like Vegas, Hawaii, the Bahamas or other distant destinations from the bride’s home.
If you’ve recently been delegated the role of maid of honor or bridesmaid and need to design a bachelorette party without blowing a hole in your pocket, consider the following tips to plan an enjoyable and cost-effective party:
1. ARRANGE A FREE WEEKEND TRIP:
It might not sound high-end, but among the bridesmaids, it’s likely someone will know somebody who has a house available for a weekend. Be it in the mountains or by a city, a houseful of girls can still guarantee an entertaining weekend breakkeeping the costs low. Fancy saving on hotel and airfare? Find a free house that’s drivable and you’ve already eliminated two significant costs.
2. ORGANIZE A STAYCATION:
If there’s no nearby place to drive to, why not plan a themed staycation? Everyone can bring their preferred spa-like treatments and fun games, like Cards Against Humanity (which can be downloaded for no cost). Reminisce your teenage days with at-home makeovers.
3. STICK TO ONE NIGHT ONLY:
There’s no harm in limiting the fun to a single night instead of a whole weekend or week. Treat yourself to a fancy meal, then enjoy drinks at local bars.
4. MINIMIZE OUTINGS:
If you decide to plan a weekend trip, assign a meal for each girl to plan and this way, you can reduce both outings and costs. Have one plan breakfast, another lunch, and only splurge on dinners, helping to save food expenses. After accommodation and flights, food and drinks could be your major expenditures.
5. SET UP YOUR OWN BAR:
Buying alcohol at bars can make your wallet lighter faster than you realize owing to hefty mark-ups. Instead, arrange a competition to concoct the best cocktail at home. Each girl can try their hand at bartending to create a drink they think the bride will adore. The cocktail with the most votes leads the pack!
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Keep in mind, someone getting married doesn’t imply you have to max out your credit card. Convincing the bride and other bridesmaids to opt for a budget-conscious alternative to the pricey bachelorette celebrations could be a game-changer.
What fun, affordable bachelorette parties have you attended or organized? Do you have any additional budget-friendly ideas for an enjoyable night out?
