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Wedding’s Off. We’re stuck with the dresses!

Anger! 

Not that it happens often, but sometimes couples realize their next move isn’t wedded bliss—not to each other, that is.  Unfortunately, this sudden realization can happen close to the wedding date.  Yikes! 

If this decision only affected the couple, most would simply console the couple and encourage both to move on.  That’s not the reality in many cases.  Most often, a wedding affects many family members and friends.  Some of the affected are cash-strapped, previously attached at the hip, bridal attendants. 

The unfortunate truth is these tireless cheerleaders of the bridal couple are often stuck with insanely ugly attire and travel fees for a wedding that suddenly disappeared like that sock that went into the dryer but vanished during the last dry cycle. 

What to do??  Let’s find out.

Dear Polite One,

I thought the bride and I were closer, but I'm very disappointed in her behavior.  She and her fiancé broke off the engagement 2 months before the wedding.  Not surprisingly, all her bridesmaids, including me, have already paid – over $400 – for our dresses (hideous-looking dresses).  How can we approach her about reimbursing at least part of the cost?  She hasn't spoken to any of us, not even to share why this happened or to thank us for all we've done.

Sincerely,

Maid of Honor to No One

Dear Maid of Honor to No One,

Ouch! That hurts. Even though this doesn't seem fair – especially since they canceled the wedding – the bride is not responsible for any of the cost of the dresses. All of you would be out the same amount if the event had taken place. Perhaps the dresses could be returned to the bridal shop if the dresses have not been altered or worn. You never know unless you ask.  Beyond that, you might be able to sell these at a consignment store. 

As for your friend's behavior, I hope her behavior reflects that she upset about the cancelation of her wedding. Give it some time.  Hopefully, she will eventually offer a letter of apology or some sort of olive branch.

Sincerely,
The Polite One

More from The Polite One

Four Tips for Planning Your Wedding

Wedding Complications Q & A: Ignoring Groom's Parents

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