Being a bridesmaid is an honor. If you’ve been asked to be a bridesmaid, you’ll want to think carefully about it. You want to make life easier for the bride and have a lot of fun yourself at the same time. It’s a good idea to keep in mind certain common mistakes that bridesmaids sometimes make.
It’s Her Day
This is the bride’s day. She is front and center. She will make the choices from the smallest things like which clip to use to wedding robes to get to flowers to decorate to the menu served. You’ve been asked to be a bridesmaid because she wants to share it with you. Let her call the shots. If she wants something simple in the countryside or something more elaborate with lots of guests, keep in mind that’s her plan. Be as supportive as possible with all of her choices for her wedding day.
Planning a Wedding is Stressful
Remember, planning even a small wedding is very stressful. The bride may be knee deep in wedding invitations, cake decorations, dealing with her new mother-in-law and finding the right location. Cut her some slack. If she looks stressed, remind her how special she is in your life and how much you love being part of her wedding.
Not Budgeting
As a bridesmaid, you may need to spend money. If the venue is far away, you’ll need to arrange transportation and perhaps also a place to stay during the wedding preparations. Most brides will ask you to pay for your dress. You will also have to pay for the wedding gift. Keep in mind such expenses after you’ve said yes. It’s a good idea to start saving some extra money just in case the moment the bride asks you to be part of the wedding party.
Failing to Pay Attention
During the wedding preparations, you will need to pay close attention. As a bridesmaid, you are part of a specific wedding role. You may be asked to walk in at a certain time or walk in with an usher. You want to know what’s required of you during the ceremony. If you have any questions, ask them. The bride wants to make sure that you are on the same page as the rest of her team. Make sure you know details like the wedding time so you have plenty of time to prepare.
Not Preparing Enough
Keep in mind that minor problems can develop even during the best-rehearsed wedding. Your bra may be showing right before you walk down the aisle. Another member of the bridal party may be late to the ceremony. You may have accidentally spilled something on your dress, bring your good ‘ol bridesmaid hanger. If you don’t know the reception site very well, bring a map. Have a repair kit on hand before you leave. It’s a good idea to allow enough time to prepare for the wedding and any minor mishaps that may happen. And when you think you’ve got everything handled, let yourself have fun with the bride.