You'll obviously have a nice gown done for your wedding, but you won't be the only one getting dressed up--and you're expected to take care of the gowns for your entourage as well. However, if you're on a tight budget, is it okay to ask your entourage to pay for their attire? If it is, how do you ask them nicely?
MAREX'S ANSWER:
Traditionally, the entourage pays for their own dresses, including their accessories (shoes and jewelry). In this case, it is important for the couple to consider the financial situation of their friends and family whom they want to be part of the entourage. It is best to inform them from the start, so that each person will have a chance to decline if they cannot afford to participate or have other personal reasons.
In the Philippines, however, it is usually the couple that pays for the entourage gowns. The couple chooses the couturiers, and the designer chosen for the entourage dresses is not necessarily the same designer who will do the bridal gown. Normally, what happens is the bride sits down with the designer so they could discuss the specifics. In some instances, the bride brings photos of the entourage so the designer will have a clearer vision of what style will suit each one. Once the designs have been approved by the bride, a schedule will be set for the taking of measurements, fittings and all.
If the couple is on a tight budget, the least they could do is to give the fabric to the entourage, so they can then set their own budgets and have their gowns made by the designer of their choice. However, in this case, I suggest giving each one of them a design peg so that no one will veer away from the look and concept of the whole wedding.
In truth, most entourage gowns are only worn once, so some couples go for RTW gowns for sale or for rent. Although cheaper, the colors are limited and the fabrics used may not be as fine as how the couple had hoped them to be.
Regardless of which option the couple goes for, it is important to clarify things as soon as they invite the people concerned to be part of the entourage. This is to avoid any wrong assumptions that will only add to the stress of the wedding preparations.
About Marex Gaba:
Party Planner Extraordinaire Marex Gaba is a consummate events expert with more than a decade's worth of experience in events planning, management and directing. Creative, meticulous and versatile, his main objective is to translate his clients' ideas and requests into fabulously elegant, well-designed, and totally hassle-free events.
Marex has been a member of the Philippine Association of Wedding Planners (PAWP) since 2007. He is a member of the Board of Trustees, and is currently the Vice President.
For more information on Marex Gaba, see his supplier listing here.
