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LDS Wedding Etiquette & Expectations

Being asked to be a bridesmaid in an LDS wedding is an honor—and also a responsibility. If you’ve been asked to stand beside the bride on her special day, you might be wondering what that really means for your time, your wallet, and your role.

Let’s walk through the common costs for bridesmaids and how to approach them with grace, love, and open communication.

What Do Bridesmaids Typically Pay For?

Here’s what bridesmaids are usually expected to cover in a traditional Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wedding:

• Bridesmaid dress and alterations

• Shoes, accessories, and other attire items

• Hair and makeup (if required professionally)

• Part of the bridal shower and/or bachelorette party

• A wedding gift

This may sound like a lot, but it’s completely okay to set a budget and have a conversation with the bride. A loving, faith-centered wedding should never cause stress or financial hardship—and that goes for the bridal party, too.

Bridesmaid Dresses: Who Pays?

Most often, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses, though the bride may select the dress style or color. If a bride chooses something very specific or high-priced, she may offer to help cover the cost.

Tip: If you're on a budget, don't be afraid to gently ask if a more affordable dress option could work. Many brides will gladly accommodate, especially if it keeps everyone feeling comfortable and included.

Hair, Makeup, and Accessories

If the bride wants all bridesmaids to get professional hair and makeup done, she may cover the cost—or at least part of it. If it’s optional or DIY, then each bridesmaid usually pays her own way.

The same goes for shoes, jewelry, and accessories—unless they’re gifts from the bride.

Bridal Shower & Bachelorette Party

These events are often organized (and partially paid for) by the maid of honor and bridesmaids. Costs can include:

• Food and decorations

• Venue (if not held at someone’s home)

• Games, gifts, or party favors

Good news? When it comes to Church weddings, many of these parties are more modest and meaningful than extravagant—think joyful gatherings, not wild nights.

Wedding Gifts

Even though you’re part of the wedding, it’s still customary to give the couple a gift. This doesn’t have to be expensive—something heartfelt or handmade can be just as treasured.

What About Travel Costs?

If the wedding or reception is far from home, bridesmaids are typically responsible for their own travel and lodging unless the couple offers assistance. The key is early planning and open conversation.

A Final Word: Communication Is Key

The most important thing? Talk to the bride. Every wedding is different, and every budget is unique. Most LDS brides understand that friendship matters far more than finances, and they’ll want you by their side in whatever way you can manage.

Being a bridesmaid isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how much you love the bride.

When you serve in this role with joy, grace, and support, you’re helping to make her temple wedding day unforgettable.