Introducing Bridesmaids: A Cherished Wedding Tradition

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it also comes with a long list of responsibilities and financial commitments. Bridesmaids are members of the bride's party at traditional wedding ceremonies, and are usually the bride's closest friends or relatives. They are there to support the bride and ensure her big day goes smoothly. While the role of a bridesmaid is not set in stone and will vary depending on the bride's preferences, there are several duties that are typically expected of them. These include helping the bride get ready, providing emotional support, attending pre-wedding events, and participating in the wedding ceremony.

Planning the hen/bachelorette party

Hen/bachelorette parties are usually held a few months before the wedding, though sometimes they are held just a few days or a week in advance. They can be a full day or a weekend of events, including spa days, outdoor adventures, or theme parties.

If the bride has a large social circle, the hen/bachelorette party may be a good opportunity to get to know the other bridesmaids and members of the bridal party. These parties can be a chance for female bonding, with a focus on the bride and her interests, rather than a wild night out. That being said, if the bride is interested in a night of partying and drinking, that is also an option!

Hen/bachelorette parties can be held at home, at a nearby restaurant, or in a different city. Some popular destinations in the US include Nashville, Las Vegas, and Palm Springs. In the UK, hen parties are often held in European destinations such as Latvia and the Canary Islands.

Remember that participating in a hen/bachelorette party is always optional, and some brides may decline to have one. As a bridesmaid, it is important to be respectful of the bride's wishes and comfort level.

Paying for bridesmaid attire

While it is a thoughtful gesture for the bride to pay for the bridesmaids' dresses, it is not expected. Generally, bridesmaids are expected to pay for their own attire, including accessories, hair and makeup appointments, and transportation to the wedding.

The bride should communicate all financial responsibilities to the bridal party from the outset. Bridesmaids should be honest and upfront if they are unable to meet any of the financial requirements. It is also important for the bride to carefully consider the cost of the bridesmaids' dresses, as well as their heights and body types when choosing wedding-day ensembles.

If a bridesmaid cannot afford the dress, the bride can help cover the cost or work out a payment plan with the store. Alternatively, the bridal party can opt for mismatched dresses, allowing each bridesmaid to select a dress within the same color scheme and their budget.

Attending the rehearsal dinner

The rehearsal dinner usually takes place the night before the wedding and follows a quick run-through of the ceremony events. It's customary for the couple to invite all members of the wedding party, grandparents, anyone who is giving a reading, and anyone playing a special role in the festivities. As a bridesmaid, you are expected to attend, and you may even be asked to give a toast.

The dinner is typically held at a casual restaurant or a more glamorous venue, depending on the couple's preferences. The key factor in deciding the venue is usually the number of guests. For a small, intimate guest list, a private room at a restaurant or a lounge near the wedding venue is ideal. For larger groups, renting a small ballroom or banquet hall close to the guests' accommodation is a good option.

When choosing your outfit for the rehearsal dinner, consider the venue, the weather, and the event's formality. Most rehearsal dinners are less formal than the wedding itself, but it's important to dress appropriately. Unless the couple has a specific theme in mind, cocktail attire is usually a safe bet. Remember, this is a family-friendly event, so avoid anything too revealing. If you're unsure about the dress code, don't hesitate to ask the bride or refer to the invitation for more information.

If extra travel or accommodation costs make attending the rehearsal dinner difficult for you, it's okay to skip it, but be sure to let the bride know ahead of time and find out any important details about the ceremony that you need to know.

Supporting the bride emotionally

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the most important roles is to provide emotional support to the bride. Wedding planning can be stressful, so it's important to be there for the bride when tensions are high. Here are some ways to support the bride emotionally:

Be a Calming Influence

It's easy for the bride to feel overwhelmed on her wedding day. As a bridesmaid, you can help keep her calm and reassure her that everything will happen as it should. Remind her that you're there for her and offer a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on.

Offer Emotional Security

Being a bridesmaid goes beyond the wedding day. You may find that the bride relies on you heavily during the engagement period, especially if she experiences decision fatigue or cold feet. Be open to her needs and provide a safe space for her to express her feelings.

Help with Wardrobe Choices

Attend the bride's dress appointments and offer your honest feedback and support. This process can be daunting for the bride, so having her bridesmaids there will make her feel less alone. Remember, this day is about the bride, so ensure you're committed to making her experience as positive as possible.

Assist with Wedding Planning

The bride may ask you to help with various wedding planning tasks, such as DIY projects, collecting items, or addressing invitations. Offer to take some of the burdens off her shoulders and assist with any tasks within your skill set.

Be Positive and Proactive

A great bridesmaid is supportive, proactive, and positive. Be available and present throughout the entire planning process and offer your help whenever you can. Stay upbeat and solve problems as they arise to ensure the bride feels cherished and supported.

Helping with wedding planning tasks

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. Here are some ways you can help with wedding planning tasks:

Before the Wedding

• Offer emotional support to the bride. Planning a wedding can be stressful, so be there for the bride when she needs a listening ear or a helping hand.
• Communicate honestly and set clear expectations about your role and responsibilities. Ask the bride directly about what she expects from you and be upfront about what you can commit to, both time-wise and financially.
• Help plan pre-wedding events like the bridal shower and bachelorette party. The maid of honour will usually take the lead, but you can support her by chipping in financially, helping with decorations, or arriving early to greet guests.
• Shop for your wedding day attire. Work with the other bridesmaids and the couple to choose your outfit and make sure to do this early in case you need alterations.
• Help the bride choose her wedding attire. Your opinion may be valued when it comes to picking out the bride's dress, flowers, or other details.
• Establish the finances. Before shopping for bridesmaid outfits and booking hair and makeup, discuss with the bride who is expected to pay for what.
• Help with wedding planning tasks. Offer to assist with specific tasks such as DIY wedding favours, wedding stationery, sorting through RSVPs, or offering opinions on wedding suppliers.
• Plan the hen party. While this task typically falls to the maid of honour, you can be prepared with ideas and take on specific tasks like creating a Mr and Mrs quiz or putting together party bags.
• Visit the wedding venue and help make decisions on layout and decor.
• Meet the wedding coordinator and offer yourself as a point of contact on the day for any issues.
• Help with any wedding DIY sessions.
• Check in with the couple regularly and offer practical help.
• Listen to any wedding planning woes and be supportive and enthusiastic.
• Help the bride pack for the wedding and prepare an on-the-day emergency kit.
• If there is a rehearsal dinner, attend it and be prepared to give a toast.

On the Wedding Day

• Get ready with the other bridesmaids and help keep the atmosphere upbeat.
• Keep an eye on the time to ensure everyone is ready on schedule.
• Help the bride get dressed and assist with any last-minute details like shoes and jewellery.
• Throughout the day, be on hand to assist the bride with things like makeup touch-ups, bathroom breaks, and ensuring she stays hydrated and well-fed.
• Participate in the wedding ceremony by walking down the aisle and standing at the altar.
• Be available for wedding photos.
• Give a speech at the reception if the couple asks you to.
• Check in with the newlyweds throughout the party to ensure they are well taken care of and have everything they need.
• Be the life of the party! Get the dance floor started and keep the energy high.

After the Wedding

• Attend any farewell parties or post-wedding brunches.
• Organise and return any hired clothing or accessories.
• Help take down decorations and collect wedding gifts, cards, flowers, and other decor.
• Settle any outstanding payments or bills.
• Check in with the couple to see if there is anything else they need.

Remember, each bride is different, and the specific tasks you take on will depend on her unique needs and expectations. Clear communication is key to ensuring you can provide the best support possible!

Frequently asked questions