How to Save Money if You Are Bridesmaid

More light pink bridesmaid dresses sold. The trend for elaborate marriage proposals keeps growing, fueled in part by tv shows like Mobbed, which has helped stage giant flash mob engagements, and viral videos such as Isaac's lip dup proposal. I assumed that such a giant amount of planning meant that the wedding would be equally elaborate. But I've now heard of several couples who chose a quiet and intimate ceremony after a big production proposal. Perhaps the couple already got plenty of public attention and love, and thus only want a private moment. Or perhaps the proposal exhausted all planning energy and money, leaving them wanting only simplicity. What do you think? Would you rather have a big proposal or a big wedding?

Suggest to the bride that all the bridesmaids wear different one shoulder bridesmaid dresses in the same color. It's a beautiful way to unify the wedding party, while allowing each woman to pick the dress that works for her, and her wallet. If the bride would rather have a uniform look, be helpful by researching dresses and finding good options at lower price points.

Even with cost-cutting measures, being a bridesmaid is expensive. If it's not in your budget, you can say so, politely of course. Let them know how thrilled you'll be to be a guest, and that you hope she understands. And if you do say yes to being a bridesmaid, you don't have to say yes to every event. Select tea length bridesmaid dresses and choose to do your own hair and makeup, and skip the pricier parts of the bachelorette.

Be honest:

Hopefully, your friend asked you to be in the wedding because she values you more than your pocketbook. When she asks, first tell her how honored you are and how happy you are for her. Then – ideally before you've accepted – let her know that you're on a budget. Ask if she can work with you to keep costs down.