In Bridesmaids, where would Lilian (played by Maya Rudolph) be without her bridesmaids, especially her childhood bestie Annie (played by Kristin Wiig)? They are the ones who support her during the ups and downs of her wedding; the ones she turns to for love and support. Sound like you and your girls? Your bridesmaids are the ones that lend an ear when you want to rant about extra guests, and they’ll even take a day off work just to accompany you to a dress fitting. They are there for you, so please, please don’t forget them—it’s a must you show your appreciation and keep them happy! Here are seven things to keep in mind when it comes to your bridesmaids.
1. Be understanding. Be prepared that your request to be in your bridal party might be turned down. Try not to be too offended if one of your closest friends declines your invitation. If she says no, we’re sure there’s a good reason for it. Maybe she’s shy, or a little too busy with her own life to commit. If she’s into it, assign her a different role that’s much more low commitment like reading a scripture at the ceremony.
2. Find them a friend. You want your bridesmaids to look forward to their walk down the aisle, so pair them up with groomsmen who share common interests, goals, or even heights! If you do happen to have an uneven wedding party, and they’re worried about flying solo, have one of the groomsmen escort two of your ladies at the same time.
3. Let them be your conscience. Your girls are there for you and are the perfect people to bounce wedding ideas off of. Though you may think you know everything you desire for your wedding day, a second (or third!) opinion never hurts. Don’t hesitate to ask them for advice—they will no doubt be thrilled to give it to you.
4. Make things affordable for them. Dresses, shoes, accessories, hair and makeup, oh my! Weddings are expensive and not just for you—for your wedding party, too. Since bridesmaids sometimes pay for their own dresses and accessories, you should consider the cost of their outfits. Work with your girls to decide on a reasonable budget for all—one that won’t break the bank.
5. Share the love. There are many tasks to be done to make your wedding successful. Split all the tasks between your bridesmaids equally. Don’t overload one of your girls, not even your maid of honour, with too many tasks. Remember, they have lives, too!
6. Make new friends. There’s a possibility that some of your bridesmaids have never met. Since these girls will be spending a lot of time with each other, it’s important to ensure they all get along. Earlier on in the party planning process, host a casual get-together (going out for drinks is always a good idea) to introduce everybody.
7. Dress for success. Deciding on your own dress is a task and half; then you have to tackle what your girls are going to wear. Be the diplomat and listen to their input of what they do and don’t like in a dress style. After considering their requests, look at what you want and combine the two. It’s important they look and feel fabulous, just like you.
Photography courtesy Universal Pictures
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Posted by Karen on July 2, 2008 at 10:28 p.m.
WOW... What great tips! They really help me plan out my walk down the aisle! Thanks Diana!
Posted by Oliver on July 3, 2008 at 12:07 a.m.
OMG DIANA!!! lol i love it!
you made it!
Posted by Marjo on February 14, 2010 at 6:17 p.m.
Throughout all the wedding articles I have read, this has been by far the most helpful and beautifuly written, thank you alot Diana! I'll be on the look out for more of your articles!
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