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UK Wedding News

28/06/2013

Survey Reveals The Rise Of The 'Bridesmate'

Brides-to-be are being forced to slash the cost of their weddings due to the recession.

However, according to a new survey, one of the most popular elements of the big day facing the cut, is the bridesmaid.

The study, which was carried out by VoucherCodes.co.uk, found that brides have cut back on the amount spent on bridesmaids by more than 60%.

As a result, it seems the role of the traditional bridesmaid is fading, with 38% of brides admitting they are now sacrificing having bridesmaids altogether, instead replacing them with 'bridesmates'.

A bridesmate, is a friend who covers the tasks and costs involved in being a bridesmaid, but without the fancy title.

Even for the women who refuse to stand at the altar without her bridesmaids confessed they had to budget for the element, with the average spend per dress falling from £363 in 2010 to £134.27 in 2013. The costs of the flowers also fell from £102 to £61.55.

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Interestingly, only one in five (19%) said they still buy everything for their bridesmaids, while the same claim they'll cover the cost of the dress, but will ask their friends to pay for their own shoes and accessories. A further 8% suggested their 'bridesmates' buy and wear co-ordinating outfits instead of a traditional bridesmaid dress.

Despite this, only 5% of respondents said they were willing to hand control to their friends when it came to a choice of dress. Understandably, this caused tension among 29% of 'bridesmates' who say they would need the final say on the outfit they were being forced to buy, while 25% worry about spending more than they can afford.

A further 20% of reluctant 'bridemates' claimed they would be annoyed if they had to buy their own outfit and still carry out all the traditional bridesmaid duties like planning the hen party.

Helen Evans, site Editor of VoucherCodes.co.uk, said: "Weddings are traditionally an expensive affair so it's only natural that brides are trying to find ways to trim down their budgets in the face of the recession. That said, where the bride makes savings, costs to the 'bridesmate' increase which can put dangerous pressure on friendships as well as finances so it's important to find a compromise that avoids offending anyone or putting them under financial pressure.

"With careful planning and research, 'bridesmates' can use deals and discounts to make sure they help their friend have the day they dreamed of without breaking the bank."

(JP)

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"Brides-to-be are being forced to slash the cost of their weddings due to the recession."