I've been Asked to be a Bridesmaid, Now What?

Whether it’s your sister, grade school friend or college roommate, some important woman (or man) in your life has invited you to be a part of their bridal party. If you’ve ever been part of a wedding party you know this role comes with fun times, and responsibility.

Here are our top 5 tips on how to best support your bride to be:

1. Start Saving – There is no getting around it, standing up in a wedding is going to cost some money (dress, shoes, showers, etc.). If you say yes to being in a wedding, you are saying yes to the cost of being in the wedding as well. Be realistic about your budget, and if you have any concerns talk to the bride to be before accepting the role. Once you’re on board, spend with a smile. This is someone you love, and she would do (or has done) the same for you.

2. Offer an Opinion – when asked to do so. Respect the decisions the bride feels confidence in making on her own, and offer honest opinions when she asks for them (also remember that she may not take ALL of your suggestions)

3. Lend a Helping Hand – A bride’s to do list is never-ending, or so it seems. As her big day approaches reach out to her, see what you can do. It may be tying ribbons, sorting through contracts to make a contact info. sheet, or going out for a glass (ok, bottle) of wine to de-stress. The bride might not want to ask for help, since you’ve done so much already, but she will appreciate you offering more than you know.

4. Run Interference – Unfortunately there are always going to be people involved in a wedding who cause a bit of trouble. We all have the complaining cousin, opinionated sister-in-law or friend who forgets this day is not about them. Be a buffer between the troublemaker and bride. She has enough to worry about. You may end up with a headache from listening to all that complaining, but someday karma will send the favor back to you.

5. Have Fun – Be her right hand (and left, when necessary), through her wedding day prep, ceremony and all of the formal activities. When it comes time for the reception, kick back and have fun. The bride will most likely be most relaxed during this time, and will take away many happy memories of her guests celebrating the love between her and her new husband.

Abide by all of these guidelines and you are sure to win “Best Supporting Bridesmaid” in our book!

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),
Olivia