April 29, 2015
As the cost of weddings continues to reach record highs, it's not just the bride and groom's wallets that are suffering.
Weddings can be expensive for guests, too. According to a study recently released by American Express, the average guest will spend nearly $700 to attend a wedding this year, an increase of 13 percent from 2014.
The gift isn't the only expense to worry about. The top categories guests plan to spend more money on are airfare, hotels, dining out and dressing up.
Here are a few ways you can save as a wedding guest from Yahoo Finance.
• Airfare is the biggest expense for wedding guests. Do your homework to find the best deals on flights or consider a different mode of travel, depending on how far away the venue is.
• Hotels will often offer a group rate for weddings, but for a limited time. If you miss the group rate, you can try finding other discounts, such as those offered by AAA. Depending on the location of the venue, you could also try to get a group together and pay for car service to transport you back home at the end of the night.
• Pre-wedding festivities like engagement parties, bridal showers, etc. can add up quickly. Pick your battles. Don't feel obligated to attend every one, especially if you aren’t super close to the bride and groom.
• You don't need to buy a new outfit each time you get invited to a wedding. Try recycling some things you already own or rent a dress or suit.
Of course you want to share in your friends' special day, but it doesn't have to drain your wallet.
