Wedding World Wisdom: How Much You Should Spend on Your Wedding Party

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Woman hands holding Gift box with white bow, close-up

Planning a wedding in the La Crosse area comes with a long to-do list, a realistic budget, and at least one conversation that starts with, “Wait… are we paying for that too?” If you’re getting married and gearing up for Wedding World on March 8, one of the biggest questions you’ll likely ask is: How much should we spend on our wedding party? 

Between gifts, dresses, suits, hair, makeup and travel, the numbers can add up quickly. Let’s break it down in a practical, Midwest-honest way so you can plan wisely and still have money left for cheese curds at the end of the night. 

How Much Should You Spend on Wedding Party Gifts?

Bridesmaid and Groomsman Expectations

According to The Knot’s wedding planning guidance, couples typically spend $75 to $150 per person on wedding party gifts.1 Brides.com echoes similar guidance, noting that gifts should be meaningful and reflect appreciation rather than simply being another wedding-day accessory. 2  With the average wedding party including four to six attendants per side, that means: 
  • 4 attendants x $100 average = $400 per side 
  • 6 attendants x $100 average = $600 per side 
Combined, couples can expect to spend $800 to $1,200 total on wedding party gifts. 

What Counts as a Gift?

Here’s where confusion often sets in.  Brides.com clarifies that items worn on the wedding day — such as jewelry, robes, or ties — do not always count as true “thank you” gifts unless they are personalized and something the attendant would genuinely use again. 3  Translation: If it screams “bride tribe 2026,” it’s probably not a heartfelt keepsake.  A good rule of thumb? If they’d use it outside your wedding weekend, it counts. 

Who Pays For Wedding Attire?

This is where tradition and modern expectations collide a little. 

Bridesmaid Dresses

Historically, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses. According to The Knot’s wedding budget guidance, bridesmaids in the U.S. typically cover the cost of their dress, which averages between $130 and $200. 4  However, if you require a very specific designer gown or a high-end custom look, etiquette experts suggest the couple should consider covering part — or all — of the cost. 5   In practical terms: 
  • Standard dress within typical range: bridesmaids usually pay
  • High-end or very specific look: couple may contribute
  • Custom gowns or destination requirements: couple should strongly consider covering 
In La Crosse, where weddings range from rustic barn venues to elegant riverfront ballrooms, couples are increasingly flexible — especially when trying to be considerate of their wedding party’s finances.  Midwest rule: Be thoughtful about your bridal party’s investment and choose something that everyone can feel confident saying “yes” to. 

Groomsmen Attire

Groomsmen traditionally pay for their tux or suit rental. According to The Knot, tuxedo rentals average $100 to $250, depending on brand and accessories. 6  If you’re opting for custom suits instead of rentals, that can push costs significantly higher. In those cases, many couples choose to subsidize part of the expense. 

Should You Pay For Hair and Makeup?

This is one of the most common questions at bridal expos like Wedding World.  Brides.com explains that if professional hair and makeup is required, it is generally expected that the bride covers the cost. 7  Average professional services range: 
  • Hair: $75–$150
  • Makeup: $75–$150
If optional, attendants may choose to pay themselves.  So, if you’re requiring the glam squad at 6 a.m., it’s courteous to include that in your budget. Browse trusted La Crosse Area Wedding Vendors

What's the Total Investment?

Let’s look at a realistic breakdown for a wedding party of five per side: 

Gifts: 
10 attendants x $100 average = $1,000 

Hair & Makeup (5 bridesmaids): 
$125 average each x 5 = $625 

Optional Dress Contribution ($50 each): 
5 x $50 = $250 

Estimated total contribution from couple: 
$1,875+ 

And that doesn’t include bachelor/bachelorette parties or rehearsal dinner hosting. 

Planning is key — which is exactly why attending Wedding World in La Crosse on March 8 is smart. You can talk directly with local vendors, compare pricing, and build a realistic budget before you commit. 
 
Get your tickets for Wedding World on March 8th. 

How This Applies to La Crosse Weddings

Couples in La Crosse, Wisconsin often balance tradition with practicality. We’re not about flashy for the sake of flashy. We’re meaningful, memorable, and within reason. 

At Wedding World, you’ll find vendors who understand regional budgets, seasonal venue pricing, and how to create a beautiful wedding without making your wedding party secretly Google “how to financially recover from being a bridesmaid.” 

And let’s be honest — in Wisconsin, your wedding party has probably helped you move at least once and shown up with a truck. Treat them well. 

Smart Wedding Party Budget Tips

  • Be transparent early about expected costs
  • Choose attire within reasonable ranges
  • Offer flexibility in shoes and accessories
  • Invest in meaningful gifts over trendy ones
  • If you require something, consider paying 

Weddings are joyful. Finances shouldn’t create resentment. 

Final Thoughts

So how much should you spend on your wedding party? 

Most couples can expect to invest $1,000 to $2,500 total, depending on party size and how much they choose to cover. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a golden rule: 

Show appreciation. Respect budgets. Keep it classy. 

And if you want expert guidance tailored to La Crosse weddings, start at Wedding World on March 8. Planning smart now means fewer surprises later and more room in the budget for the fun stuff. 

Check out our other helpful wedding content:

The Wedding Attire Dilema 
Assigned Seating or Freedom of Choice: What’s Best? 
DIY Wedding Ideas: Personalize Your Big Day 

Citations: 
1. The Knot, “Bridesmaid Gifts Etiquette”
2. Brides.com, “How Much to Spend on Bridesmaid Gifts”
3. Brides.com, “How Much to Spend on Bridesmaid Gifts”
4. The Knot, “How Much Do Bridesmaid Dresses Cost?”
5. Brides.com, “Who Pays for Bridesmaid Dresses?”
6. The Knot, “Average Cost of a Tuxedo Rental,”
7. Brides.com, “Who Pays for Bridesmaids Hair and Makeup?”