The bride is bilking her friends

Yikes, that's crazy! I'd probably email all of the other ladies and just present the information in a purely factual manner leaving out your opinions and feelings. Simply say hey, thought you guys may be interested to know I spoke to (the T-shirt company) and they told me that they are $X not $XX. List everything you know.

I'd then call the bride and step down. There is absolutely nothing that excuses this behavior and I wouldn't be able to maintain a friendship with someone this deceptive and toxic. Depending on how much money is involved and how far you want to take this you could probably make a police report. They may be willing to investigate and possibly lay fraud charges against her.

I'm sorry you are going through this.

That's not a friend, that's a user. Give the other BMs a heads up and get the heck out of there. You'll never regret getting that bride out of your life.

Wow, this is so terrible. Why would anyone do this to their friends? That's super shady and wrong. I would definitely say something to her about it, and would probably also talk to the other girls. It's hard enough to afford to be in a wedding for a lot of people, without the bride lying about costs so she can take her friend's money! I think that would definitely be a friendship-ending move if it happened to me.

I agree this is completely unethical and a horrible thing to do to anyone, but especially FRIENDS! However, I would probably confront her directly with what you've learned, first, just in case there is some information you are missing (I think that is highly unlikely, but I'd give her an opportunity to explain herself, just in case). But, if she doesn't immediately have a logical explanation, then I would tell her you are stepping down, and I would share "just the facts" with the others who are being duped (extorted?). I'm so sorry, this is really a horrible thing for her to be doing.... I don't understand how some people live with themselves.

I agree fully with this. This woman obviously is not a true friend and I would go as far to say that her actions are parasitic. You don't need someone this toxic in your life. I also thing the other ladies in the bridal party should be informed. I would want to know if someone that I considered a close friend was taking advantage of me. That's just disgusting.

I would definitely be bowing out, as others have said. In addition, depending on the amount of money she has bilked you for, I would consider taking her to small claims court to get it back. I'm going to guess she won't just hand it over if confronted. If it's a small amount, say under $50, I might overlook it and just go on my way. But if you're going to be out $100s, that's a different story. And in my mind, that includes whatever you've spent on the bridesmaids dress, shoes, etc. You're out that money because of actions the bride chose to take, not because you just changed your mind. She should be responsible for that.

Uggh, sorry. This is not OK. I would back out of bachelorette party. I have heard of others doing this, they charge for friends, but not family. It stinks.