Photo Courtesy of LulaKate. Hannah dress featured in Nude, Luxe Crepe

There is nothing more exciting than having your childhood bestie/college roomie/close coworker ask YOU to be her bridesmaid.

But let's be real for a second - It's EXPENSIVE to be a bridesmaid! From the dress, to the shoes, to the hair and makeup, to the spray tans and juice cleanses...and then come the gifts! Shower gifts, bachelorette gifts, wedding gifts...before you know it, you are drowning in Crate and Barrel receipts.

Have no fear! We've been around the bridesmaid block a few times and put together our tips for being a bridesmaid on a budget.

1. BOOK EARLY

Travel is often required as a bridesmaid. Remember, the early bird gets the worm so figure out the dates you are required to be present so you can book your necessary travel plans in advance! Whether it's a fun bachelorette weekend in Vegas, or a destination wedding in Mexico, you will save some cash money by booking your flights early! Use travel sites to find the best deals or use those miles you've been saving up.

Photo Courtesy of "Bridesmaids"

2. DON'T RSVP TO EVERYTHING

As much fun as all the pre-wedding activities can be, don't feel like you have to attend everything. No offense, but the bride's Aunt Kathy won't notice you couldn't attend her "French Garden" themed afternoon tea. If you are invited to 5 showers, maybe just attend 2 or 3 of them. The bride will understand you can't spend every Sunday during the Spring playing shower games and oooohing and ahhhhing over salad bowls. Just remember to politely decline to the hostess.

Invitation by Nico and Lala

3. GO IN WITH YOUR GIRLS

Another way to save some green? Go in on the gifts with your girlfriends! Whether they are the other bridesmaids or just your clique from college, you will all appreciate saving some money by going in a bigger gift all together! Scroll through her registry and pick out a big ticket item like their bedding or their everyday dishes. That way you know you are getting the couple something they will love and use, and it will lower the cost of the gift a bit for everyone.It's a WIN WIN!

4. SHOP AROUND FOR THE PERFECT TAILOR

Even though that floor length coral dress might not be your taste, you still want to look hot in it! Tailoring is ALWAYS expected with bridesmaids dresses, but you don't have to spend a pretty penny to look like a dime. Shop around for the perfect tailor that will hem your dress to fit with your nude pumps and make the girls look nice and perky! Get a few quotes from local tailors to figure out how to get the most bang for your buck. Don't forget to check out Yelp to read reviews from bridesmaids past to help you with your search. Or you can always call your local Bella for their recommendations!

Photo Courtesy of Joanna August

5. BE HONEST WITH THE BRIDE

Remember that at the end of the day, the bride loves you and asked you to be her bridesmaid for a reason! She will totally respect your budget so be honest with her about your situation. No bride wants her friends to go broke for her wedding day! Keep supporting her during her engagement in other ways, even if you can't commit to everything. Make sure to have that talk early so everyone is on the same page! It might be a bit awkward but all that matters is that you are standing with her on the big day.

Photo Credit: Brooke Images