Being asked to be a bridesmaid is an honor. It means that someone you love is not only getting married, but wants you to be a part of the celebration! Many young women are happy to play the role, but many aren’t aware that being a bridesmaid also comes with important responsibilities and expectations. As it turns out, there’s much more to the job than wearing a dress and looking pretty in photos!
As a bridesmaid, you play a vital role in supporting the bride and ensuring the bride’s special day runs smoothly. To help you navigate this crucial role with grace and style, we’ve compiled a list of traditions, rules, and advice that every bridesmaid should know.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time bridesmaid, these guidelines will ensure you shine as you support your dear friend on her journey to happily ever after.
Honor the Bride’s Vision
When it comes to the wedding day, the bride’s vision takes center stage. As a bridesmaid, your primary role is to support and assist the bride in bringing her dream wedding to life.
Take the time to understand her preferences, from the dress style to the color scheme, and offer your help and input when appropriate. The bridesmaids dresses she picked may not be what you would have picked, but unless they make you feel uncomfortable wearing them, it’s important to let her have her way.
Remember, it’s her day, and your support in making her vision a reality will be greatly appreciated.
Be Prompt & Prepared
Punctuality is key when you’re a bridesmaid. Arriving on time for pre-wedding events and appointments shows your dedication and respect for the bride’s schedule.
If you show up late to a dress fitting, planning session, or bridal shower, you’re telling your friend that her needs aren’t very high on your list of priorities. She will feel that she can’t count on you, and this could not only add to the stress of planning a wedding, but it could damage your relationship.
Additionally, make sure you’re prepared for each occasion. Have all necessary items, such as bridesmaid dresses, accessories, and wedding gifts, ready in
advance. Being organized and prepared will not only make your life easier but also help alleviate your friend’s pre-wedding stress.
Assist With Wedding Planning
One of the traditional roles of a bridesmaid has long been to assist the bride with planning the wedding. Ask anyone who has ever had to plan a wedding before, and they can tell you just how stressful it can be!
Your support can make a world of difference. Offer to help with tasks such as researching vendors, addressing invitations, or organizing seating arrangements. Your assistance will not only lighten the bride’s load but also strengthen your bond as you work together towards creating a memorable celebration.
Be Mindful of the Budget
Weddings can be costly affairs, and it’s essential to respect the bride’s budget. If the bride has provided specific guidelines for attire or accessories, try your best to adhere to them.
While it’s sweet that you want her to have the best wedding she possibly can, it’s important to be conscious of the financial burdens she may be facing. Avoid pressuring her to spend beyond her means, even if you think you’ve found the perfect venue, dress, or caterer for her. By being mindful of the budget, you can ensure a harmonious and stress-free experience for everyone involved.
Offer Emotional Support
Most would agree that this is the most important job of a bridesmaid.
Planning a wedding can be an emotional roller coaster for the bride, and your role as a bridesmaid extends beyond logistical support.
Be there for the bride when she needs to vent, offer a listening ear, and provide words of encouragement. Your emotional support and positivity will help keep her grounded and at ease throughout the planning process.
Participate In Pre-Wedding Celebrations
As a bridesmaid, you’ll be invited to various pre-wedding celebrations, such as bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and rehearsal dinners. You may also have a hand in planning them, though the majority of that role traditionally falls to the maid of honor. Nevertheless, attend these events with enthusiasm and be fully present – put your phone on silent, shove it into your bag, and forget about it for the rest of the event.
Show your support for the bride by actively engaging in the activities and celebrating her upcoming nuptials. Remember, there’s a reason she asked you to be her bridesmaid, not someone else. Enjoying these brief moments will create lasting memories and strengthen the bond between you and the bride-to-be.
Be Ready for Wedding Day Support
On the wedding day, your role as a bridesmaid becomes even more crucial. Be prepared to assist the bride with any last-minute needs. These can be anything from bustling her dress, to holding her bouquet, or to making a last-minute Target run.
Offer emotional support and keep her calm amidst the excitement. Be attentive to her needs throughout the day, ensuring she feels loved and
supported as she walks down the aisle. However, don’t forget to enjoy yourself! Embrace the festivities, dance the night away, and enjoy every moment of this special day.
Your positive energy and enthusiasm will contribute to the overall ambiance and create cherished memories for the bride, her partner, and everyone else gathered to celebrate.
Conclusion
If we were to offer one last piece of advice, it would be this: being a bridesmaid is a big deal – so you should treat it that way. By honoring the bride’s vision, being prompt and prepared, assisting with wedding planning, and providing emotional support, your friend will be grateful she chose you to be her bridesmaid.