You’re a bridesmaid, congrats! This is a real honor, and a testament to you as a friend.
If you’re nervous or have never fulfilled the role before, don’t worry. You’ll find everything you need to know here.
Ready to rock your role as a bridesmaid? Good. Let’s go!
Important Bridesmaid Considerations
First and foremost, it’s crucial you’re realistic about your availability, your financial situation, and any other things you have going on in your life that could impact how much you’re able to participate.
It’s important to let the bride know what you can afford, and how involved you can be.
Financial Considerations
As a bridesmaid, you’re expected to pay for your bridesmaid dress, your accessories, and your hair and makeup. You’re also expected to pitch in and help fund pre-wedding events like the bachelorette party—and don’t forget the wedding gift, you’ll need to get one of those too.
Start setting aside funds, ASAP.
Pre-Wedding Events
There’s more to being a bridesmaid than just looking stunning in your Bella Bridesmaids dress, but the good news is, more in this context equals more fun!
Here’s a rundown of common pre-wedding events, and how the bridesmaids are typically involved in each.
The Bridal Shower
The bridal shower is usually thrown by the bridal party, and in order to pull it off it’s super important to coordinate with the other bridesmaids. You may be expected to:
- Help set up decorations
- Help create a charcuterie board or finger sandwiches
- Help with games
- Note gifts given for thank-you cards
- Check-in with the bride to ensure she’s having fun
The maid of honor is usually in charge and will work to assign roles and delegate tasks.
The Bachelorette Party
Ah, the notorious bachelorette party! Contrary to what often gets portrayed in movies or posted online, the bachelorette party can be whatever you want it to be.
Here is what you can expect to do:
- Pitch in to help cover costs
- Coordinate with other bridesmaids
- Help come up with games or other fun activities
- Document the shenanigans… but remember not everything needs to be posted online
- Make sure the bride has fun and stays safe
Let the bride’s personality help inform the celebration here.
If she’s in bed at 9 pm every night and prefers LaCroix to champagne, Vegas probably isn’t the right place to celebrate…
Support the Bride
This is a no-brainer really, and something you’re probably already really good at.
Be sure to check in, listen when needed, and provide that much-needed emotional support.
If there’s any bridesmaid drama, spare the bride and resolve it.
Remember, this is about the bride, not you. Shield her from any unnecessary squabbles, and when she asks for help with something, jump to lend a hand.
The Day Before the Wedding
Be sure to arrive on time for the rehearsal, and follow instructions.
Check-in with the bride or wedding planner to see if they need help completing any last-minute tasks.
Make sure you have everything you need—your dress and accessories, and be sure to have a wedding day emergency kit packed and ready for the next day.
The Wedding Day
It’s going time! The big day is here and the celebration’s about to begin.
Getting Ready
Arrive early with snacks and water, and be prepared to help the bride with whatever she needs.
It’s important to stay positive, and be ready to calm the bride down should she experience any last-minute nerves.
Follow instructions, and be proactive—offer to help out whenever there’s a chance.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception
Remember what you practiced during the rehearsal, and if you have questions about your processional and recessional timing, ask.
Participate in photos, and be ready at all times to help the bride.
Give a toast if you’re asked, and have fun! The reception is like the climax of everything you’ve been working towards, and now that it’s here, all you have to do is celebrate!
After the Wedding
If you’ve been asked, help tidy the venue after the celebration concludes.
Collect gifts and personal items, and follow instructions.
Don’t forget to share any photos you’ve snapped during the wedding-prep and big day, and send the bride a thank you card, letting her know how much it means sharing this experience with her.
Bridesmaids Etiquette
Above all else, here are some important things to remember.
Do:
- Communicate well
- Respect the bride’s and her choices
- Be kind yet firm if you need to set boundaries
- Take the initiative
- Work with the other bridesmaids
Don’t
- Don’t complain about anything!
- Don’t make it all about you
- Don’t post on social media without getting permission first
- Don’t disappear when there are still things to do
Conclusion:
Remember, this is a celebration of love. Seize the opportunity to participate, these are the moments you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
