Q & A: Whose responsibility is it to pay for the bridesmaid luncheon?

Q. Whose responsibility is it to pay for the bridesmaid luncheon? My mother has already stated she will not do so and unfortunately my budget is stretched to the limit. Any recommendations?

A. The bridesmaid luncheon is an optional affair and, should someone (almost anyone) elect to hold it the payment is also a rather optional affair. At times the bridesmaids throw a luncheon for the bride - this is a bridesmaids' luncheon. At times the bride throws a luncheon for the bridesmaids - this is a bridesmaids' luncheon also. If you REALLY want to make a hit and help your bridesmaids out - choose sensible, not terribly expensive bridesmaid's gowns for the wedding - remember, the bridesmaids pay for their own gowns and by being a reasonable and caring friend to your bridesmaids can go a long, long way to offsetting the need for a bridesmaids' luncheon.