If your social calendar is packed but your finances are tight, it's perfectly acceptable to RSVP ‘no’ to some weddings.

This year marks a significant spike in weddings, the highest since the early 1980s. By now, you likely have several invites on your fridge. Many couples are finally tying the knot after postponements from 2020 and 2021, and along with new engagements, the number of celebrations is overwhelming. While it's exciting to celebrate with friends and family, the costs of attending multiple weddings can accumulate quickly. Before you commit to every invite, it’s wise to grasp the true expenses of being a guest. If there are major events you want to attend, utilize these practical saving tips to manage costs.

Here’s your essential guide to navigating wedding attendance in today’s world:

What are the costs of being a wedding guest?

Snigdha Kumar, a personal finance expert, has a wealth of experience attending weddings—up to six in a single year. After a recent wedding in New York, she noted the many hidden expenses: "You spend on travel, accommodations, gifts, new outfits, shoes, accessories, and the wedding gift itself. All these can easily add up to $1,500 or more, depending on the wedding location," she explains.

Here's a rough guide to typical expenses you might incur:

  • Flights: $200-$500, varying by wedding location. For international destination weddings, expect flight costs to reach up to $1,000 during peak summer months.
  • Accommodation: Plan for about $150-$350 for two nights at a hotel or Airbnb. Group bookings can sometimes offer savings.
  • Transportation to the venue: If the couple doesn’t provide transport, budget $50-$150 for taxis or rentals.
  • Gifts: A typical range is $100-$300, depending on how many guests are part of your party. If you’re attending with a plus one, tradition calls for a more generous gift.
  • Wedding attire: Expect to spend $80-$200 if you decide to buy something new.
  • Hair and makeup: If you are part of the bridal party, this could cost between $100-$200.
  • Pre-wedding events: If you’re close to the couple, you may attend several parties leading up to the wedding, with costs potentially exceeding $2,000.

Start saving as soon as you receive the invite

Kama Harms, founder of Whimsy Soul, previously worked as a wedding photographer and has seen it all. She advises starting to save as soon as you know about the wedding. Save-the-dates typically arrive four to six months prior, but if you’re certain about attending, ask for details as soon as possible, giving you a substantial timeframe to budget.

“This approach allows you to track flight prices and hotel deals better,” Harms notes.

Resist buying new outfits for every wedding

While it's tempting to buy a new outfit for each wedding, it can add unnecessary costs. Lauren Anastasio, a financial advisor, suggests, “You don’t need an entirely new outfit for every event you attend. Most people won’t remember what you wore, so get more wear from your existing cocktail attire.”

Additionally, if you’re not part of the bridal party, consider skipping salon visits. “You might prefer a professional treatment for special occasions, but if you're on a budget, do your own hair and nails. You may not feel as pampered, but the savings will be worth it,” she advises.

Share travel expenses when possible

If driving is cheaper than flying, opt for a road trip. If you're not local, consider traveling with another guest or couple to split the costs of gas and parking. Kendall Clayborne, a financial planner, emphasizes this as a major way to save.

For lodging, if the wedding is near a friend or family member’s home, ask if you can stay with them or look for an Airbnb to share with others. "Booking early can help secure the best rates," she adds.

Purchase the wedding gift early

Once you receive the save-the-date with registry details, buy the gift early to avoid limited options. Julia Pham, a wealth advisor, suggests, “Don’t wait too long or you may end up with less desirable choices.”

For larger gifts, consider teaming up with other guests to pool funds. This can make higher-value gifts more attainable.

Make the most of destination weddings

Destination weddings can be costly, involving flights and accommodations. If you’re attending, think about extending your trip into a family vacation. Tammy Trenta, a financial planner, recommends this as a savvy way to save on overall travel expenses.

It's okay to decline some invitations

Remember, you don’t have to attend every wedding you’re invited to. Allie Cunningham, a wedding planner, suggests evaluating the importance of each invitation. If you’re not in the wedding party or very close, it’s acceptable to skip it.

This can be a tough choice, especially if you're concerned about your friendship, but attending every wedding can lead to significant expenses. Sometimes, it's better to send a thoughtful gift and celebrate from a distance rather than going into debt.