The practice of asking someone to be a bridesmaid is evolving into a more formal event, known as a 'bridesmaid proposal'. This trend is gaining traction on social media platforms.
One example highlighted is an Instagram post by content creator Darcy McQueeny, featuring six customised pink wheelie suitcases, blankets, pyjamas, bikinis, and cosmetics, all personalised for prospective bridesmaids. This elaborate proposal, which also included handwritten letters, was estimated by a commenter to cost around $1,700 per bundle, totalling over $10,000.
While such proposals can be costly, especially given that the average cost of being a bridesmaid can be about $3,000 according to one expert, the Brides website suggests that these proposals do not need to be extravagant. They offer ideas for more affordable options, such as scheduling a candle making class, hosting a fake book club, or throwing a boozy brunch.