Being a bridesmaid is harder – and more expensive – than you think

Turns out being a bridesmaid is taxing in more ways than one.

Earlier this month, Mindy Kaling appeared on an episode of "Late Night with Seth Meyers" joking about the difference in responsibilities bestowed upon bridesmaids and groomsmen at weddings. Kaling pointed out that bridesmaids are essentially “maids” of the bride — even in matching uniform — while men simply “drink beer and play with the dogs.”

She may not be way off-base. According to this cheat sheet of bridesmaid to-dos, bridesmaids help with pre-wedding tasks, planning bridal showers and bachelorette parties, tending to the bride, socializing with the guests and providing plenty of moral support. And that’s only half the list.

From co-hosting the bachelorette festivities to fixing the bride’s train for pictures to making sure grandma knows where her seat is at the reception, we can see why being a bridesmaid is arguably a harder job than its counterpart. But is it more expensive, too?

According to Elite Daily, the cost of being a bridesmaid quickly adds up. Considering the cost of gifts (for the bridal shower, bachelorette party and the actual wedding), dress, shoes, hair, makeup, travel and accommodations, the average bridesmaid easily spends $1,500 to $1,800 without even realizing it.

While groomsmen are responsible for tuxes, gifts and potential travel expenses, the average cost of a groomsman is considerably lower. The average groomsman is looking at a total cost of $1,170, with 64 percent of the cost credited to the bachelor party, according to Elite Daily.

So how can a bridesmaid go about her duties in a budget-friendly way? Here are some tips for bridesmaids who aren’t “maid” of money.

• When planning showers and bachelorette parties with a travel destination in mind, Mint.com suggests trying to make both events happen in the same weekend to cut down on travel costs. Or better yet, find a fun place close by to avoid the travel hassle completely.
• Take the time to map out how much you’re willing to spend on gifts. You don’t have to break the bank to give your friend the perfect wedding present. Real Simple suggests a more personal approach when it comes to gifting. Put your DIY Pinterest board to use and come up with ways to give the bride a more thoughtful gift.
• Offer to take care of your hair and makeup on your own. WeddingWire editor Kim Forrest says bridesmaids shouldn’t feel obligated to pay for professional prep if the bride isn’t offering to pay for the services and your budget won’t allow it.
• Don’t be afraid to sit down and talk with the bride about your financial limits. The "Today Show" reported that 10 percent of guests go into debt just to attend a wedding. Don’t be that person.

In the end, the important thing to remember is what an honor it is to have been selected to stand by the bride and groom on their special day. Focusing on the beauty of love and union is the best possible way to cushion the potential blow to your wallet.