One of the greatest things a friend can ever ask you is to stand behind them at their wedding. But that’s not all you’re in for as a bridesmaid; in fact there are duties that require reams of paper. And there are a few of those duties that bridesmaids are expected to cover when it comes to costs. So here are some tips to help make sure you don’t become overwhelmed with the financial implications of bridesmaid duties.

1. Speak up

The first and most important thing is to be 100% upfront about everything. Don’t beat around the bush. Things could easily become too expensive,  or you could find yourself suddenly covering all the costs with everyone else telling you they’ll pay you back later (it can happen, and it doesn’t end well). So, to avoid situations like this, be upfront with the other bridesmaids in terms of your budget and constraints. Even if you don’t have budget constraints, open the conversation so that those who do can feel more comfortable being open about it.

2. Be practical

It’s so easy to get caught up in the romance and glamour of weddings. But these flights of fancy often translate to a lot of money. So remember to be practical when it comes to things like gifts, parties and party favours. Unlike with the wedding itself, you can get away with hitting China Town for bargains.

3. Agree upfront

As soon as there is a list of confirmed bridesmaids, set up a meeting to chat through the rules of play. One of the most important rules of play is the budget. Agree from the beginning that you will work together to keep costs low, that you will split things proportionately (in whichever way you choose, be it by age and income bracket or simply split evenly between the individuals in the group). Whatever it is, stake it out early on. This will ensure you avoid any uncomfortable conversations in the future.

4. Do your own hair and make up

It’s awesome getting your hair and makeup professionally done. But, more importantly, it’s not necessary. Unless you’re the bride, there is nothing wrong with doing your own hair and make up. And there are a few other girls around you to share tips and tricks with so you won’t be doing it alone. Plus, it’ll save you at least R1500 doing it yourself.

5. Repurpose shoes and dresses

Did you know that as long as it’s made from a natural fibre (cotton, linen, rayon or silk) you can dye dresses? That means all the dresses you have ever worn to a wedding can be transformed into a brand new dress with a simple dye job. Just make sure you use a professional service. Think along the same lines when it comes to shoes. You’d be amazed by the creative ideas there are out there that can transform a pair of shoes.

6. Pool resources

The bridesmaids are a team: they’re the bride’s tribe of warriors. And great warriors work together with the resources they have at their disposal. Pool together to decide what you can and can’t do, and work together at all times. Do things like carpool to events and functions, plan everything together, share accommodation and travel costs. You really are in this together. As much as it’s a honour to be asked to be a bridesmaid, it can also be a financial burden. To that end, the best thing you can do for yourself if take it slow, make sure you have a budget and you stick to it, and speak up if you can’t afford something. Plans can always be made, and people are more understanding than you think.