Bridal shower costs

So I just had a conversation with flaky bridesmaid and here is how it went:

I just asked why she had called my cousin, and she said that she wanted to know how much people are going to give her for the shower.

I was like umm.. my cousin is on disability and has a 1 year old, I doubt that she can really afford to give you any money. If you need money, why not ask FH's grandma who is helping to host the shower at her house, to help buy some stuff if they don't have the money. My FH's grandparents aren't wealthy or anything but they do have money and love to throw parties.

I had talked to my MOH #1 last night and she said that they had divided the shower into 3 pieces and each were about the same financially. I was under the impression that each person was going to cover what they were given/accepted to do. I guess they gave flaky bridesmaid the job of decorations. I know flaky bridesmaid doesn't have a lot of money right now. I know my cousin has even less.

So basically I told her that from now on if Kerry and Rachel need money to have them call and not have a million people call.

She also said that they are all saving receipts and will send out bills at the end so everyone pays their fair share. What?!?!?!!!
Bills?

Anyways, so afterwards, I called my maid and matron of honor and asked them if the bill thing was true - its not. A few of them are keeping receipts I don't know why. I basically told them that I don't think its fair to just call and demand people contribute money. That they should at least attempt to get them involved first. Like ask if they want to do something for the shower - like buy something, or help do something. That way people aren't just expected to pay without really being involved.

I'd be kind of annoyed if they all doubled their budget and spent over what they were planning just because they assumed everyone else could and would be able to pay the same amount. Just because one person can afford to pitch in say $40, doesn't mean the next person is able to pitch in the same amount. I know for me that would be a good chunk of my paycheck considering I'm only working part-time. Now Aaron thats doable because he probably makes several times that in one day. I know I have to work 8 hours to make that amount. Considering I usually only work 16-20 hours a week, thats almost 1/4 my paycheck.

So hopefully they figure something else out. They should also try to include Aaron's Grandma because she has offered over and over to help. So why try to force someone else to pay when you have someone ready and willing to help out.