How do brides usually organise this?

[Anonymous]

Do brides normally buy and choose the bridesmaids’ dresses, just buy the dress that the bridesmaids want, or let the bridesmaids buy their own dresses? Assuming your wedding is smart casual, interstate and no one has any money, but the bride’s saving up a lot for the wedding? Would new wedding clothes and booking a motel for a week be adequate thank you gifts to close friends and relatives?

[Oliverlogan263]

Hmm this is kinda tricky since money is tight. A few thoughts on the bridesmaid dresses:

- If it's just a casual vibe, maybe give the maids a color palette to pick dresses in their budget from anywhere? That way they can find something they love that works for your theme.

- Check sites like Lulu's, Asos, etc for budget-friendly dress options in the $50-100 range that you could buy for them as gifts after the wedding.

As for thank you gifts, I think booking a motel stay and offering to pay for dinner one night would be a really nice gesture. Giving them a mini-vacation to relax is so thoughtful.

Maybe also put together gift baskets with wine, bath bombs, face masks, etc for hanging out in the room? Can make it feel extra special.

Definitely talk to your bridesmaids and make sure any "gift" ideas you have are actually something they'd value and use first before committing. Their time and support is gift enough!

With some creativity I'm sure you can show gratitude without breaking the bank. Focus on quality time with people you love - that's what really matters most sis!

[Anonymous]

I always thought the birde went with the bridesmaids

[LazerBean]

There aren't any rules. After my husband and I chose the color we liked, I found some inexpensive but cute dresses on Amazon and sent the links to my bridesmaids. The ones who were broke and asked for help buying, I helped.

[Anonymous]

my friend forced me to buy my own bridesmaids dress. and shoes. now i have a dress and shoes i'll never need again. if it's your wedding, you should pay for others. they barely want to attend in the first place.