Bridesmaids' Guest List: Who Can They Invite?

Bridesmaids play a crucial role in the wedding planning process, from helping the bride with the bachelorette party and bridal shower to providing support and keeping her sane throughout. But what is the etiquette when it comes to inviting guests to pre-wedding events? Can bridesmaids invite anyone they want?

Bridesmaid proposal gifts

• Customized Cookies: Ask your friends to be your bridesmaids with a yummy treat. You can get creative with the design and add a personal touch. For instance, you can have a plaque cookie with a personalized message and a dress cookie in your wedding colours.
• Bridesmaid Boho Proposal Box: This super cute box can include a variety of goodies such as a scented candle, lip balm, hand cream, a "bridesmaid" badge, chocolates, and rose petal confetti. You can also add a personalized proposal card to pop the question.
• Bridesmaid Wine Glass: This proposal idea combines a nice glass of wine with a custom-printed box and message, asking your bridesmaid how much you value her presence on your special day. You can also include a bottle of wine with a personalized label that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• Hand Drawn Prints: These personalized art prints are a creative way to ask your friends to be your bridesmaids while also showing them how much they mean to you. You can include old photos and a poem or a heartfelt message to make it even more special.
• Bridesmaid Puzzle: A custom puzzle is a fun way to get your friends excited about being a bridesmaid. They will be delighted to assemble the puzzle and find an adorable picture and a personalized message asking them to be a part of your bridal party.
• Bridesmaid Tote Bag: Tote bags are back in fashion, and they make excellent bridesmaid proposal gifts. You can personalize these bags with each of your bridesmaid's names or wedding titles, and they will surely come in handy during the bachelorette party and other wedding-related activities.
• Bridesmaid Candle: This proposal idea combines a stylish and eco-friendly candle with a heartfelt message. The label can define the role of a bridesmaid as your "partner in crime" and "secret keeper", making it a perfect choice for asking your friends to be by your side on your big day.
• Custom Wine Label: Wine is always a great idea when it comes to gifts. Get a bottle of your bridesmaid's favourite wine and decorate it with a cute personalized label. You can include custom illustrations of you and your bridesmaid, along with a message asking her to be a part of your special day.
• Bridesmaid Beaded Bracelet: Jewelry is a popular choice for bridesmaid proposal gifts, and these dainty beaded bracelets are a perfect example. You can get bracelets that say "bridesmaid," "maid of honour," or "I do crew" to instantly convey your proposal without even having to ask!
• Bridesmaid Robe: A luxe bathrobe is a practical and desirable gift for your bridesmaids, especially if you want them to get ready in matching robes on the big day. You can embroider these satin robes with each of your bridesmaid's names and choose from various colours to match your wedding palette.

Remember, when it comes to bridesmaid proposal gifts, it's essential to keep in mind your bridesmaids' interests and preferences. While some may appreciate a heartfelt letter or a phone call, others may prefer a more extravagant gift. Ultimately, the thought and effort you put into asking your friends to be your bridesmaids are what matters the most.

Bridesmaid luncheon

A bridesmaid luncheon is a Southern wedding tradition where the bride gets to spend time with and thank her bridesmaids and close female family members. It is usually held within the week of the wedding, with the most popular time being the day before the wedding. However, it can be held at any time, including several weeks or even months before the wedding.

The guest list typically includes the bride, maid or matron of honour, bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and groom, sisters, future sisters-in-law, and other close female relatives. The groom and his groomsmen can also be included if desired.

The bridesmaid luncheon can be hosted by the bride, the mother of the bride, or the maid of honour on behalf of the bridesmaids. It is usually a feminine and low-key affair, often taking place at a restaurant, a private home, or a rented suite. The menu can vary from a traditional light lunch with finger sandwiches and cake to something more personalised, such as the bride and bridesmaids' favourite meals, or even a trip to the spa.

The bride usually takes this opportunity to give gifts to her bridesmaids and close family members as a token of appreciation for their support and help with the wedding planning. It is also a chance for the bride to make a short toast, although this is not necessary. Overall, the focus of the event is to acknowledge and thank the bridesmaids and other important women in the bride's life.

Creative ways to ask

There are many creative ways to ask your friends to be your bridesmaids. Here are some ideas:

Gifts

• A piece of jewellery, such as a bangle, bracelet, earrings or a ring.
• A personalised gift box with items that are personal to each friend, such as their favourite candy or a note.
• A candle with beautiful calligraphy and a personalised scent.
• A silk shortie pyjama set with their initials sewn on.
• A bottle of personalised prosecco or rosé with a tailored Spotify playlist.
• A customised wine bottle with a cute phrase and a label asking them to be your bridesmaid.
• A puzzle with a picture of you and your friend and a message asking them to be your bridesmaid.
• A customised tote bag with their name and a message.
• A customised mug with a hidden message at the bottom.
• A personalised notebook with a free personalised message.

Activities

• A dinner at a restaurant where you can give them a card with the question inside or ask the server to deliver small boxes with a note as they pour each guest a glass of wine.
• A game night, mani-pedi date or a movie night with a wedding-themed film.
• A scavenger hunt that leads to a proposal card.
• A floral workshop where you can attach a note to each person's station asking them to be in your wedding party.
• A dance class, such as salsa lessons.
• A private cocktail party at your favourite local cocktail joint or at home with a hired bartender.
• A spa day at a local spa or at home.
• A candle-making class with customised labels that say "Will you be my bridesmaid?".
• A tattoo or piercing party (in a professional setting).

Who to invite

When it comes to deciding who to invite to be a bridesmaid, it's important to choose people who are close to you and have supported you through the years, especially during the wedding planning process. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your bridesmaids:

Close Friends and Family Members:

Bridesmaids are typically the women who have had the biggest impact on the bride's life. This can include your best friends, sisters, cousins, or other relatives. Choose people with whom you share a strong bond and who will be excited to support you on your special day.

Availability and Commitment:

It is essential to consider the availability and commitment of potential bridesmaids. Aim to select people who are readily available and willing to dedicate time to the wedding planning process, bachelorette party, and other pre-wedding events. Ensure they have enough time to prepare and plan accordingly.

Active Role in Wedding Planning:

Bridesmaids often play a crucial role in supporting the bride through the wedding planning process. Choose individuals who are actively involved in the planning and organisation of the wedding. They can provide valuable assistance with various tasks, from sending invitations to selecting decorations.

Compatibility and Dynamics:

Consider the group dynamics and compatibility between your potential bridesmaids. It is beneficial to choose a group of people who get along well and can work together harmoniously. This will create a positive and supportive environment during the planning process and on the wedding day itself.

Financial Considerations:

Being a bridesmaid can involve some financial commitments, such as purchasing a dress, attending pre-wedding events, or contributing to bridal shower expenses. Be mindful of your friends' and family members' financial situations, and choose people who can comfortably participate without causing undue financial strain.

Size of the Wedding Party:

The size of your wedding party can vary depending on your preferences and the scale of your wedding. If you have a large wedding, you may want to include more bridesmaids to ensure everyone feels included. However, if you prefer a more intimate setting, a smaller group of bridesmaids may be more suitable.

Once you have considered these factors, it's time to pop the question to your chosen bridesmaids! This can be done in a variety of creative and thoughtful ways, such as hosting a dinner, sending a personalised gift, or even surprising them with a heartfelt note. Remember to give them enough notice, usually at least six months before the wedding, so they can adequately prepare for their role.

When to invite

• It is recommended to invite your bridesmaids anywhere between a year to eight months before the wedding. This gives them enough time to prepare and plan accordingly.
• Before popping the question to your bridesmaids, it is advisable to wait until you know your wedding date. This allows your bridesmaids to have a better idea of whether they can commit to the role, especially if the date coincides with other commitments or life events.
• Take some time to thoughtfully consider your choices. If your wedding is happening a year or two after your engagement, use that time to reflect on who you want by your side during this special time.
• Try to finalise as many wedding details as possible before inviting your bridesmaids. Knowing the kind of bridal shower and bachelorette party you want, as well as other key details, will help your bridesmaids feel more informed and excited about their role.
• It is generally recommended to give yourself a 60-day grace period after getting engaged before inviting anyone to be a bridesmaid. This allows you to plan the number of bridesmaids you want and think about gifts or other details you want to include in your invitation.
• If you are having a destination wedding, be mindful of your bridesmaids' travel plans and schedules when deciding on the timing of your invitations.

Frequently asked questions