Wedding traditions have long dictated the roles of bridesmaids and maids of honor, which do change from bride to bride. Here are the general expectations of the bridal party.
How to be a Bridesmaid
The bridesmaid may help the bride shop for her wedding dress, accessories, shoes, and flowers. She may even attend cake tasting and facility renting excursions, and help the bride research wedding traditions. The bridesmaid and the maid of honor may work together to help stuff wedding invitations into their envelopes, create wedding favors, and provide emotional support to the bride.
Great bridesmaids gently offer creative input, and support the decisions of the bride and groom. Bridesmaids are also available for last-minute rescues, such as finding lost rings or mending torn veils. Members of the bridal party are there to support the bride and groom in any way they can.
The Wedding Parties
Bridesmaids are expected to attend – and often help plan – the engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, and farewell brunch or tea the day after the wedding. These duties do depend on the bride and groom. If it’s a destination wedding, for instance, the expectations of the bridal party will be different than if it’s a big traditional church wedding.
The Cost of Being a Bridesmaid
Usually, bridesmaids pay for their bridesmaid dress, shoes, accessories, accommodations and travel costs, and the bachelorette party or shower.
The time commitment can be fairly high for members of a bridal party. Bridesmaids are expected to shop for their bridesmaid dresses and participate in dress fittings.
Extra Special Things a Bridesmaid Can Do
If you want to go above and beyond the call of duty, consider these thoughtful touches:
- Create a PowerPoint presentation for the wedding speeches or bridal shower.
- Take photos of the whole process, from wedding dress shopping to cake tasting.
- Create a scrapbook of the wedding planning and celebrations. Include photos, momentos, receipts, ribbons, wedding favors, and so on.
- Send champagne, strawberries, and flowers to the bridal suite for the wedding night.
- Write a poem, paint a portrait, or make something special that celebrates the bride and groom. Use your unique talents and skills to create something special for the wedding couple.
The most important part of being part of the bridal party – other than taking your responsibilities seriously and doing the best you can to support the bride and groom no matter what – is to have fun. Enjoy the wedding planning, and get into the joy of it all! You probably won't be a bridesmaid for this friend again, so make the most of it.
If you found How to be a Bridesmaid helpful, you might enjoy:
- How To Be a Maid of Honor
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- Top 10 Wedding Planning Websites
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