Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in this post may be "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Disclosure in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.
So your best friend is engaged, now what do you do?! Undoubtedly, there are going to be some costs involved. Here are a few of the things you can expect to buy over the next few months. Start planning and saving now!
Weddings can be tonnes and tonnes of fun, but they can also be very hard on the pocket book. You may not need to spring for everything in this list, but these are common wedding expenses, especially for those close to the bride or groom.
An Engagement Gift
Celebrate with your friend by picking them up some bubbly, a few wedding magazines, or putting together something fabulous. I also like the idea of bringing over some new champagne flutes as a gift and celebrating together!
You can also get your friend a wedding countdown gift box or a nice wedding planner to help with the wedding preparations.
For more Engagement Gift Ideas click here.
Bachelorette Gift
Beyond chipping in for the costs of the bachelorette party (which may be an entire weekend!), many bachelorette parties also feature gifts for the bride. Traditional bachelorette party gifts include lingerie or something scandalous.
Along with a gift, you should also expect that you’ll have to buy an outfit for the bachelorette party. Depending on the theme it could be anything from a nice outfit to matching funny shirts.
Bridal Shower Gift
Bridal showers have hosting costs, if you are in the wedding party or are the one playing host. They are also all about gifts. Stick to the registry and pick up something fun and functional.
Usually bridal shower gifts are something smaller. Home goods like dishes, serving ware, small appliances, etc are super popular. So are date night gifts. Co-ed showers are increasingly popular – if your friend is having one of those you’ll want to give something for both the bride and groom.
For more Bridal Shower Gift Ideas click here.
If you’re in the wedding party or the maid of honour you may also be contributing to the cost of the shower including games, decorations, etc.
Wedding Party Attire
If you are in the wedding party, you will most likely need to spring for a full new outfit, including a dress, jewelry, and shoes. Even if you are not in the wedding party, your wardrobe might need a new piece or two for the wedding.
Your kids (if you have any) will also need outfits if they’re involved in the wedding or attending.
Wedding Day
Even for weddings down the street, there are lots of wedding day costs for best friends! They can include food (in the morning or while you are waiting for the reception), hair, makeup, a taxi home, airfare or transportation and a hotel.
If the wedding has a cash bar you’ll also need to budget for that. It’s customary to buy the bride and groom drinks so you may want to include that in your planned costs.
Wedding Gift
Last, and certainly not least, there is the wedding gift. Pick something off of the registry, or, if you are feeling very brave, go with something original.
Wedding gift spending varies a lot, but if it’s your best friend and your budget allows you should aim for at least $200. You know your friend best, though, and they should understand your financial situation so don’t worry if you can’t afford a big gift. Especially if you’ve already chipped in in other areas.
Check out these trending wedding gifts for some fun inspiration.
Other Often Missed Expenses When Your Best Friend is Getting Married
- Childcare if you have kids – your friend will likely want you at several events and you’ll probably be helping so make sure to arrange this well in advance.
- Pet care/pet sitting – likewise, pets may need a hired caregiver, especially if the wedding is out of town.
- Multiple outfits – you will need outfits for the bachelorette party, shower, and wedding. If you’re in the wedding party, you’ll also want something for the rehearsal dinner and other events surrounding the wedding.
- Transportation – to and from the wedding, bachelorette party, venue set up, etc. Budget for both gas money and Ubers, as appropriate.
- Hair and makeup – again, if you’re in the wedding party, but you also may want to have your hair done before the wedding in general or buy some new makeup for the main day.
- Spouse and kids’ expenses – if your partner and/or children are attending events with you they’ll also need new clothing, accessories, etc. depending on the type of wedding your friend is having.
Now you should be prepared for most of the wedding costs that might come you way, now that your best friend is engaged. Start saving today!
