Hi Please hide my identity. One of my closest friends is getting married in December, and she has asked me to be one of her bridesmaids. I was excited until she sent us the list of expenses. We must contribute towards matching dresses, hair, makeup, accommodation and a weekend getaway before the wedding. The total cost is almost R8 000, excluding transport and the wedding gift. I earn R7 500 a month and have a child to support, so I simply cannot afford all of this. When I explained my situation, she told me that being a bridesmaid is an honour and that I should have planned for it because she announced her wedding months ago. She also said she would feel embarrassed if one of her closest friends pulled out. I don't want to disappoint her, but I cannot borrow money just to look good at someone else's wedding. How do I tell her that I can attend as a guest but cannot afford the bridesmaid expenses? Should friendship require you to sacrifice your financial stability for someone's special day?