Etiquette Expert Shares How to Navigate Extravagant Bachelorette Parties: ‘Transparency and Empathy Are Key’

Bachelorette parties have escalated in extravagance in recent years.

Expensive trips and celebratory dinners dominate social media, drawing criticism from entertainment hosts like Alex Cooper. But what is appropriate when it comes to brides planning extravagant bachelorette parties, especially when it comes to finances?

America’s foremost etiquette expert, Jacqueline Whitmore, tells PEOPLE that any embarrassment when it comes to funds for a bachelorette bride extravaganza can only be avoided by planning ahead and communicating well with your bridal party.

Stock Photo.

Getty

“The reasonableness of the costs asked of the bridal party depends a lot on open communication and understanding of everyone’s financial situation,” says Whitmore, adding that brides should consider the “different financial capabilities of party members.”

“It’s thoughtful to discuss potential costs up front and assess everyone’s comfort level,” she adds. “Planning activities that offer a range of pricing options can also ensure inclusivity.”

Celebrity event planner shares tips for planning the best bachelorette party: ‘Toast . . . Don’t burn the bride’

When it comes to lavish bachelorette trips, Whitmore says, “Transparency and empathy are key.”

She recommends that brides inform their bridal parties of any potential costs as soon as possible so that the bridal party can “budget accordingly.” She added that brides should not wait “until the last minute to plan the party.”

Another thing that brides can do to “relieve” the financial pressure on guests is to contribute significantly to the cost of accommodation or a formal dinner. Whitmore adds that it’s not wrong to ask friends to pay for their flights, accommodation and personal expenses, but things like requests for appropriate clothing or other expensive travel activities “should be done with consideration”.

Alex Cooper condemns extravagant bachelorette parties: ‘Knock It Off’

Stock Photo.

Getty

She also recommended offering friends “flexibility” when it comes to doing more expensive activities and offering them an alternative to do it for them. Whitmore suggests, “Provide options or levels of participation, allowing friends to engage in a way that fits their budget.”

On the other hand, a bridesmaid who isn’t able to attend a more extravagant bachelorette party shouldn’t be afraid to decline an invitation, though Whitmore says there are several ways to broach the subject with the bride.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

One of those ways includes telling the bride as soon as possible that the trip is out of budget because “early notice shows respect for her planning process.” Another approach is to be honest about your financial situation and express it “sensitively”.

“Emphasize your happiness for her and your desire to celebrate in other ways,” Whitmore tells PEOPLE.

Her final suggestion is for the bridesmaid to offer an alternative, more affordable option for the celebration. She explains, “This shows your enthusiasm to celebrate her milestone, despite not being able to join the trip.”

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education