Planning a Bachelorette Party on a Budget

Between engagement parties, bridal showers and the actual wedding, being a bridesmaid is a busy — and pricey! — job. Luckily, one of the most fun parts about it is it doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out how to keep costs under control when your bestie’s big bachelorette includes a trip away.

Gauge expectations early. If your soon-to-be married friend wants a three-day rager in Vegas and most of her bridesmaids can afford just a night out, someone is going to wind up disappointed. Get a sense early on of what people are expecting and how much they can afford. For the bridesmaids, sending out an individual email to each girl can help you get a sense of their financial situation without making them respond to an entire group.

Work your connections. Does someone have a family cabin or can score cheap hotel deals? Figuring out any perks that might be available can go a long way toward lowering costs.

Reserve a house instead of a hotel room. Alcohol and food are usually the biggest money drainers. Renting a house is almost always much cheaper than a hotel room. Plus, you can stock it with your favorite alcohol, meals that are easy to make (Costco’s got a great selection of pop-in-the-oven meals) and post-party snacks, eliminating a lot of those extra expenses.

Make it thoughtful. Five years from now, the bride won’t remember what club you danced at, but she will remember how special her friends made her feel. Focus on experiences and personal touches she’ll enjoy and remember. Is she going on an exotic honeymoon? Send her off with a travel kit. Frame a photo of all you girls together or wake her up to an awesome, home-cooked brunch complete with mimosas and great tunes.