They’re your closest friends and you easily selected which ones that you wanted to stand by your side on your wedding day. Yet, being a bridesmaid involves lots more than just showing up on the day of your wedding. Here are some tips to keep your beloved bridesmaids happy as you plan for your big day.
- Consider the number of bridal showers that will be thrown for you. If you’re having more than one, take note of who is invited to which ones. Invite select bridesmaids to each, giving consideration to their schedules, so you can limit the showers they need to attend. And remember, it’s perfectly acceptable that maids attending multiple showers only bring a gift to one event.
- Be considerate of the price of the bridesmaids dresses you select. Although they are happy to be sharing in your joy, being a bridesmaid is an investment. Not only will they be paying for their dress, they’ll also need shoes and accessories to accompany it.
- Be considerate of the style of bridesmaids dresses you select. Let’s face it, not all bodies are created equally and you’ll want your maids feeling comfortable ~and beautiful~ on your big day. Consider a certain dress color and let your bridesmaids find a style, neckline and silhouette that are most flattering to their body types.
- Don’t dictate how your bridesmaids should wear their hair and makeup. Give them the freedom to decide what hairstyles and makeup colors best compliment them and their comfort level. And if you really want to make them happy, treat them to–meaning pay for–hair and makeup services provided by a professional stylist!
- Be considerate of where you have your bachelorette party. If you and your maids are all excited and in agreement to head to Vegas for the weekend, then have at it! Otherwise, keep in mind that out-of-town festivities only add to the monetary investment your maids are already making.
- Communicate your expectations of your bridesmaids, and keep their to-do list manageable. Do you want them to be involved in your planning details? Do you need their help in addressing your wedding invitations? Do you need them to deliver welcome bags to the hotel for your out-of-town guests? Let them know what you expect of them, so you don’t end up being upset with someone who perhaps didn’t understand (or didn’t know) what you needed of them to begin with.
- If your bridesmaids all come from different parts of your life and don’t know each other, schedule a fun outing or two before the wedding to give them the opportunity to get to know one another. They’ll have a lot more fun together at the wedding if you do!
- Remember during your planning process and leading up to the big day that life is still happening for your bridesmaids as well. Make a point to talk about non-related wedding things. Check in on them and inquire about what’s going on in their lives. They still want to share life with you just as they always have.
Photos by Brittany Butterworth Photography | Taylor Ann Photo | Brian Anthony Photography
