Reader's Dilemma: I'm a Broke Bridesmaid--Do I Have to Give a Wedding Gift?

However expensive weddings are for regular ol' guests, they're that much pricier for the ladies in the wedding party. Save the Date reader Elizabeth is experiencing this first-hand. Check out her prenuptial predicament.

Writes Elizabeth:

"I'm a bridesmaid in one of my best friend's weddings, which I am totally stoked about. The problem is, she moved to a different state. To be in the wedding, I have to get a plane ticket. I am also currently going to university to be a teacher (represent!) and am the traditionally strapped-for-cash coed, so buying this ticket is a huge financial deal for me. She knows this, and is in the same situation herself. My question is: Is it acceptable for me not to give her any gifts (besides the wonderful gift of my presence, of course)? I feel tacky not getting anything to help her with her new life, but I just can't swing it right now."

Here's What I Think:

Brides know (or should know!) that bridesmaids shell out a small fortune merely for the privilege of standing near the bride during the ceremony. And they should understand that you may be tapped out after a plane ticket and a dress. Still, I don't think showing up empty-handed is the answer (sorry if that's not what you want to hear!).

If the bride is having a shower that someone else is hosting (read: you're not paying a penny for the party), you should give her something. If even a $25 teapot isn't in your budget, wake up your crafty side (consider it practice for the beautiful bulletin boards you'll one day create as a teacher) and make her a gift: a collage of photos of her and her hubby-to-be, a scrapbook of their relationship, a scrapbook of your friendship. Or how about this? Get in touch with the married women who are going to her shower and ask them all for their best marriage advice. Compile their quotes on a single sheet of paper and frame it. Another idea: Put together a wedding-day emergency kit with a few other bridesmaids. That can cost as little as $5 each.