Bachelorette party questions! Help!

I personally wouldn't be offended but I would expect maybe a few people not to come. We planned a co ed beach weekend for Atlantic City that was $110/person for the weekend just for the Air B&B and none of our bridal party had a problem with it. Actually all but 3 paid the money to attend (2 had kids and couldn't find a sitter and 1 was underage). As long as you give them enough time (& 5 months is more than enough time) I don't see a problem with it!

It doesn't sound unreasonable, but there's no way any of us can tell you if this is too much to ask (time and money) for your attendees. The best way to handle something like this is to send out all of the information in a casual way (so that no one feels any pressure and so that they can make their decisions and responses privately) and then just wait and see who is interested. Give them a deadline but don't push, cajole, or nag about participation. Definitely do not point out to them that they only need to save $40 a month for your party.

I think this is very reasonable and would definitely attend something like this. Since you said it is optional this is definitely acceptable!

While I personally don't think it's outrageous, and seems pretty affordable, this is why a lot stress about getting budgets first.

Because you've cost it out and when you present it you have say two couples who can only afford to put down $100 each, do you say whelp sorry you can't go, and now they feel embarrassed or not good enough (I have been this bridesmaid and it is an awful feeling for a group to say sorry your budget doesn't fit in with our plans) or do you change plans that can include everyone and then go on a cruise later with those who can afford as just a friend trip. It's different when you are part of a bridal party vs just going as a group of friends

If you're inviting too many people to speak to individually about their budgets, you may be inviting too many people. Again, just keep this casual so there is no chance anyone feels pressure to spend beyond their means (time or money) and be really clear with all of the costs up front so people can make informed decisions.

But also know that, human nature being what it is, just because you are giving people so much advance notice of your party, doesn't mean they won't express interest now and then not be available when it gets closer to the date. That's just how party planning goes, but even more so when people have to pay to attend the party. As long as you don't pin all your hopes on a certain amount of people attending, you'll be fine.

I wouldn't have a problem with it as a guest. Pre-wedding parties are optional, so don't be offended if people decline the invite (for whatever reason).