hiya michelle, we were getiing married in mexico because we wouldnt be able to afford it here due to having 2 massive families, so i wasnt having bridesmaids but my SIL to be said she would pay for her dress an her sisters. my sister now decided they are now coming an she is paying for her dresses to & my nieces. i have told them they dont have to as its a lot of money for them just to come, but they have insisted. there is no way i could afford nearly £800 more to buy all there dresses. so its there choice, we have narrowed it down to 2 dresses, i will pay for there bouqets, an will buy them each some earrings. not sure whats happening with hair yet. i think you can only mention to them what your thinking see what they say. it can work out so expensive cant it an we just cant afford it! nicy are you having a sit down meal? it shouldnt matter that much if your nt nt everyone will sit down. my sisters wedding reception room was nt big at all but she still had nearly 180 ppl in the room an it was fine. x xx