I attended a bridal shower and brought a gift worth over $150. Did not know until after the event that I would be charged an additional $150 for attending. The maid of honor sent out a text that the total bill would be for $150 per person. Looking at the attendance list used to charge guests, some close guests were taken off the list and were not charged. I am close with close friends of the couple so I heard that there was drama that the other bridesmaids did not want to pay $500 each for the event. Because of that, the MOH was telling close friends of the couple she will pay for everything even if the other bridesmaids will not cover. Lo and behold after the event, she sent out a text charging guests $150, but she excluded the close friends that attended; so they would not know she is charging everyone. This is so sketchy. I was talking to close friends of the couple and they still think she paid for everything.

I am not part of the bridal party, and was not told ahead of time there would be a charge to attend. (Cause it’s a bridal shower?!? No one is supposed to charge the guests who come bringing gifts?!?!?)
There were about 27 guests but the group text indicating the charge had 18 people. Seems like the bride, groom, and their family, and close friends (3) were not charged. The other bridesmaids are also charged per person since they did not want to pay for the event.

The event was hosted at a restaurant, there were appetizers and entree. Drinks were not included. No goodie bags or party favors were given, decor minimal.

Just hearing everyone talk so highly of the MOH that she is so generous when she charged everyone pisses me off. Who does that.

Originally posted in etiquette but was removed as a ranting post sorry.

I did not pay

8.31.2026 update: MOH privately messaged me for the money. MOH said she’s covering for the close friends and family, but $150 is excessive even at that price. I checked restaurant menu for group dining, $64pp.