Wedding Planning for Bridesmaids
I've written today's Wedding Wednesday post for all of the bridesmaids of my wonderful brides! There around countless wedding planning websites and magazines for brides filled with advice and tips. On the flip side, there are not nearly as many resources out there for bridesmaids! As a result, I compiled a list of some of the most frequent questions I've heard from the leading ladies of the day!
1. Who are the other bridesmaids? How should we stay in touch?
If you don't all know each other already, the Bride will definitely introduce you! After meeting, you can all decide on the best form of communication, whether that be email, group text, social media, a wedding planning app, etc.
2. What important events related to the wedding day should I attend?
Not all bridesmaids live close to the Bride, sometimes making it a challenge to make it to all of the wedding-related festivities (dress fittings, luncheons, the bridal shower, etc). The most important thing is that you're there to offer support to the Bride-to-be on her wedding day!
3. What do I need to do for the bridal shower and bachelorette party?
The Maid of Honor will usually take the lead on planning and organizing the bridal shower and bachelorette party. Though this is often the case, it doesn't mean she won't need help! Since she has the biggest job of all the bridesmaids, be sure to ask the Maid of Honor what she needs assistance with (check in with her regularly). I can guarantee that she'll appreciate it!
4. Do I give a speech at the wedding?
The Maid of Honor is usually the only bridesmaid to give a speech. Since each wedding and wedding party is different, ask the Bride if she wants you to say a few words.
5. Do I give my opinion on the style of the bridesmaids' dresses? How much do they cost?
We all have different styles and tastes, which may or may not be in line with the Bride's. Before giving your input on the dresses, feel out the Bride first: does she have a clear idea of what she wants you ladies to wear, or does she seem open to suggestions? Bridesmaid dresses cost an average of $150 + alterations. If you are concerned about cost, chat with the Bride before she starts looking at dresses for you ladies, so she can search for something that works with everyone's budget.
6. What should I do as far as hair and makeup is concerned? What about shoes and accessories?
In many cases, the Bride will want you to feel comfortable and allow you to choose something that fits your style in these areas. Just to cover your bases, be sure to check with the Bride before doing so! If she isn't concerned about everyone matching perfectly, chat with the other bridesmaids to choose a general style that fits with the wedding (i.e. silver shoes and pearls for a classic and timeless wedding).
7. What should I wear to the rehearsal dinner?
Your attire for the rehearsal dinner will depend on how formal the dinner is, so be sure to ask the Bride about this in advance. This way, you'll have enough time to find a nice dress for a formal dinner, or a cute top and shorts for a backyard BBQ.
8. What can I do to offer support on the wedding day?
The Bride chose you to stand beside her on what will be one of the most beautiful days of her life, so be sure to be there for anything and everything. If the Bride is feeling nervous, give her something to laugh about. If there's a crazy curl out of place, fix her hair. Adjust her dress if needed to keep the Bride looking flawless. Enjoy the excitement of the wedding day with her!
If you've already had the experience of being a bridesmaid, what other pieces of advice would you offer?
Click here to see what else you can do to help the Bride on her wedding day!