Junior Rasmussen
Bridesmaids play an important role in a wedding, from supporting the bride on her big day to being present for photos. So, it's no surprise that you'd want to keep them in the loop about all the details. From the dress and hair to the bachelorette party and bridal shower, there's a lot for bridesmaids to keep track of. Here are some key things to keep your bridesmaids posted on to ensure they feel included and excited for your special day:
- The dress: Let them know about any specific requirements, such as colour, length, or alterations. You could even organise a group trip to a bridal shop to try on dresses together.
- Hair and makeup: Discuss whether you'll be hiring professionals or if they'll be doing their own. If you're providing hair and makeup artists, share the details so they know what to expect.
- Bachelorette party: As a bridesmaid, one of the biggest responsibilities is planning the bachelorette party. Keep your bridesmaids in the loop about any plans, budgets, and dates so they can provide input and ensure it's an event the bride will love.
- Bridal shower: The bridal shower is another key event that bridesmaids often take the lead on. Share your vision for the shower, and ask for their ideas and input to make it a success.
- Gifts: Traditionally, bridesmaids receive gifts from the bride as a token of appreciation. Let them know if you're planning to give gifts and, if so, whether you'll be covering the cost of their dress, hair, or makeup as your gift.
- Timeline: Keep your bridesmaids informed about key dates and deadlines, such as when they need to order their dress, attend fittings, or arrive for the wedding festivities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Proposal Gifts | Tote bags, candles, matches, robes, bath bombs, face masks, makeup bags, wine labels, mimosa cubes, beaded bracelets, rings, jewellery boxes, lollipops, M&Ms, stickers, mugs, tea sets, sweat sets, sleep masks, slippers, scrunchies, press-on nail kits, perfume, succulents, candy boxes, denim jackets, hair clips, puzzles, cookies, insulated champagne flutes, cold brew glasses, zodiac candles, initial necklaces, trinket boxes, disposable cameras, key chains, bucket hats, sweatshirts, socks |
| Proposal Cards | "It’s my turn to pop the question.", "Help me keep my shit together.", "I’ll only be a happy bride if my best friend is by my side.", "I can’t say ‘I do’ without you.", "Plan with me, stand with me, cry with me, laugh with me. Will you be my bridesmaid?", "My ‘I do’ would not be the same without you.", "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue—and you.", "It wouldn't be a bridal party without you.", "Will you help make the best day ever even better by being my bridesmaid?", "Half of the groomsmen are single. Be my bridesmaid?", "By luck, we became sisters; by love, we became friends. I couldn’t imagine getting married without you by my side!", "My wedding day wouldn’t be complete without you standing beside me. Be my bridesmaid?", "A toast to us being lifelong friends. Will you be my bridesmaid?", "You’re not just a friend, you’re also a sister to me. I would be so grateful if you would be my bridesmaid and help me create lifelong memories.", "I am so grateful for your friendship. Will you help me create a day full of love and joy by being my bridesmaid?" |
| Proposal Boxes | Mini bottles of champagne, customized wine glasses or tumblers, “Bridesmaid” T-shirts or sweatshirts, nail polish or press-on nail kits, sheet masks and under-eye patches, monogrammed slippers, matching or personalized claw clips, dried floral arrangements, sweet treats, personalized tin mugs, spiked hot cocoa kits, vintage compact mirrors, personalized tote bags, personalized jewellery, mini bottles of their favourite perfume, cozy wraps or silk scarfs, silk scrunchies or hair ties, friendship bracelets, affirmation, tarot, or conversation-starter card decks, their favourite tea or coffee, customized key chains, monogrammed journals, personalized passport covers or luggage tags, travel-size toiletries, mini travel journals, airplane cocktail kits, Polaroid cameras and film, heart-shaped or customized “bridesmaid” sunglasses, fun-in-the-sun essentials, small art prints of your favourite places, personalized water bottles, custom stickers for their water bottles, locally made granola or honey |
What You'll Learn
The proposal: how to ask your bridesmaids in a fun and creative way
Now that you've said "yes" to your partner, it's time to "pop the question" to your bridesmaids! Asking your friends to be bridesmaids is a big deal. These are the women who will be helping you plan, celebrate, and support you on your big day. The way you ask someone to be part of your bridal party should be just as special as she is, so here are some fun and creative ways to do it:
Gifts
- Snag a leather pouch with "bridesmaid" printed in gold and fill it with trinkets that nod to your friendship or a pretty nail polish she can wear on the big day.
- Send a floral card with a bouquet of flowers. Pop the "Will you be my bridesmaid?" question in the accompanying card.
- Give them a "Will you be my bridesmaid?" candle with beautiful calligraphy and a scent of your choice.
- Get a "Will you be my bridesmaid?" matchbox to pair with the candle.
- Gift them a piece of jewellery, like a bracelet or earrings, with a love knot design.
- Give them a personalised notebook to help them plan and celebrate your wedding.
- Put together a self-care package with a bathrobe, satin sleep mask, and a silk sleep set.
- Send a bottle of bubbly with a customised label that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid? I can't say 'I do' without you."
- Get a customised picture frame with a photo of you and your bridesmaid.
- Send a box of gourmet candies that spell out "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
Creative Ways
- Host a slumber party and gift them cotton pyjamas with their initials monogrammed.
- Host a dinner party with a little decor. Give out T-shirts with pageant-inspired sashes printed on them that say, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
- Invite your bridesmaids to a wine-tasting night at your home. Present them with a bottle of wine with a custom label that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
- Organise a flower-arranging class and give each woman a beautiful arrangement with a note asking them to be your bridesmaid.
- Send a scratch-off card with a custom card that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?" under the scratch-off part.
- Host a movie night and pop the question by referencing a character or scene in the movie. For example, a post-"27 Dresses" screening sample would be, "Will you be my Katherine Heigl?"
- Host a game night and give out "bridesmaid proposal kits" as prizes.
- Invite your bridesmaids to afternoon tea and ask them to be a part of your special day.
- Set up a coffee date and bring a personalised mug or ask the barista to write the question on the cup instead of their name.
- Send a bouquet of flowers with a card that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
Bridesmaids and Flats: A Match Made in Heaven?
You may want to see also
Budgeting for the proposal and any gifts
Determining the Budget:
Start by establishing a total budget for all bridesmaid proposals and gifts. This will be your foundation for allocating funds to different areas. Consider your overall wedding budget and decide how much you want to allocate to the bridesmaid proposals and gifts.
Proposal Ideas on a Budget:
There are many creative and thoughtful ways to propose to your bridesmaids without breaking the bank. Here are some budget-friendly ideas:
- Framed photo: A meaningful and inexpensive way to pop the question is to give your bridesmaids a framed photo of the two of you or a group photo if they are all friends.
- Scratch-off cards: Create custom cards with a scratch-off portion that reveals a message asking, "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?"
- Fortune cookies: Invite your friends over for Chinese takeout and movie night. Surprise them with custom fortune cookies that have "Will you be my bridesmaid?" written inside.
- Coffee date: Organize a special coffee date with each bridesmaid and bring a personalized mug or ask the barista to write the question on their cup.
- Mani-pedi date: Treat your bridesmaids to a relaxing afternoon at the nail salon, and pop the question by gifting them a wedding-focused nail colour.
- Themed movie night: Host a movie night with wedding-themed films like "27 Dresses" or "Bridesmaids." As the credits roll, announce your bridesmaid proposal by referencing a character or scene from the movie.
Gift Ideas on a Budget:
When it comes to gifting your bridesmaids, it's not about the monetary value but the thought and sentiment behind the gift. Here are some budget-friendly gift ideas:
- Personalized wine glasses: Pair these with a bottle of bubbly or their favourite wine, and you can even add a custom label that says, "Will you be my bridesmaid?"
- Cosmetic cases: Fill these with self-care goodies like sheet masks, nail polishes, or bath bombs.
- Sentimental jewellery: A dainty piece of jewellery, such as a bracelet or a necklace with a love knot design, is a tried-and-true option.
- Monogrammed tote bags: These are not only useful for your bridal party but can also be filled with other small gifts or treats.
- Robes: Gift your bridesmaids comfy robes, perfect for getting ready on the big day and relaxing at home afterward. You can even embroider their names or initials on them.
- Scented candles: Choose candles with heartfelt labels that define the role of a bridesmaid or opt for zodiac-themed candles based on their birthdates.
Ways to Save:
To stay within your budget, consider the following tips:
- Group gifting: If your budget is tight, consider combining resources with other members of the bridal party to purchase a more substantial group gift.
- DIY and personalization: Incorporate handmade items or personalized touches to your gifts. For example, you can create your own bridesmaid proposal boxes filled with a assortment of small gifts and treats.
- Prioritize thoughtfulness: Focus on finding gifts that hold personal meaning for each bridesmaid, regardless of the price tag.
- Shop sales: Keep an eye out for deals and discounts on items like bridesmaid dresses, especially during sales events like Black Friday.
- Use your connections: Tap into your network of friends and family who may have skills or resources you can utilize. For instance, a friend who is a great cook can cater the bridal shower, or a family friend who sews can help with dress alterations.
Remember, the most important thing is to express your gratitude and appreciation for your bridesmaids. The thought and effort you put into the proposals and gifts will make your bridesmaids feel special and valued.
Creating a Beautiful Bridesmaid Bouquet: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Timing: when to ask your bridesmaids
Asking your closest friends to be your bridesmaids is a special moment and one that you and your friends will remember forever. But when is the right time to pop the question?
It's best to ask your friends to be your bridesmaids early on in the wedding planning process. Most couples ask their wedding party within two to three months of getting engaged. This gives your bridesmaids plenty of time to prepare for all of the bridal events, including your engagement party, bachelorette party, and bridal shower. It also gives them time to save money, especially if they will be travelling to be part of your celebration.
You can ask your bridesmaids all at once, or you can set up individual dates with each person if you prefer something more intimate. If you go down the individual route, it's a good idea to ask everyone within the same week so that no one feels left out.
Remember, being a bridesmaid can be expensive, so the earlier you can give your friends a heads-up, the better. This will give them more time to budget for the dress, travel, accommodation, and any pre-wedding events.
Choosing a Color Scheme for Your Bridesmaids: A Guide
You may want to see also
What to include in a bridesmaid proposal box
Asking your closest friends to be your bridesmaids is a great opportunity to show them how important they are to you. You can make your bridesmaid proposal as creative and unique as you like, but if you're looking for ideas on what to include in a bridesmaid proposal box, here are some suggestions:
The Gift Box
A fun idea to present your proposal is to give each bridesmaid a box of thoughtful goodies they can use before the wedding and on the big day. You could decorate the box with a ribbon and a personalised label with their name on it.
The Contents
- A framed photo of the two of you
- Mini bottles of champagne or champagne gummies
- Customised wine glasses or tumblers
- "Bridesmaid" t-shirts or sweatshirts
- Nail polish or press-on nail kits
- Sheet masks and under-eye patches
- Monogrammed slippers or silk scarves
- Friendship bracelets
- Sweet treats, like truffles or chocolate
- Personalised tin mugs
- Vintage compact mirrors
- Personalised tote bags
- Personalised jewellery (initial necklaces, lockets or signet rings)
- Mini bottles of their favourite perfume
- Silk scrunchies or hair ties
- Customised key chains
- Monogrammed journals
The Card
Include a stylish "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?" card with a heartfelt message inside. You could handwrite something like:
- "It's my turn to pop the question"
- "I can't say 'I do' without you"
- "My wedding day wouldn't be complete without you standing beside me. Be my bridesmaid?"
- "As I prepare for the day I'll be a bride, it would mean the world to me to have you by my side!"
Exploring Gender Norms: Bridesmaids and Their Identities
You may want to see also
The role of a bridesmaid: what to expect from the role
Being a bridesmaid is a wonderful opportunity to show your closest friends how much they mean to you. It's also a chance to have fun and celebrate the bride and her special day. Here are some things to expect and keep in mind as you take on this role:
Before the Wedding
Being a bridesmaid involves supporting the bride throughout the wedding planning process and beyond. It's important to be honest with the bride about your budget for the dress, bachelorette party, shower, and other expenses. Set clear boundaries and communicate any concerns early on to avoid misunderstandings. It's also a good idea to ask the bride what tasks she needs help with, such as DIY favors, finding a caterer, or recommendations for makeup artists.
During the Wedding
On the wedding day itself, bridesmaids are expected to be present for photos and provide support to the bride. This may include helping her with her dress, hair, and makeup, as well as ensuring she has everything she needs throughout the day. It's also the bridesmaids' responsibility to keep the reception fun and exciting, whether it's by dancing, mingling with guests, or checking in with the bride to see if she needs anything.
What to Bring
To make the day go smoothly, it's a good idea to come prepared with an emergency kit. This can include items such as feminine hygiene products, mints, a small sewing kit, tissues, clear nail polish, nail glue, extra makeup, pain relievers, digestive aids, eyelash glue, deodorant, and stain remover. Additionally, don't forget to bring your own makeup and hair tools, as things may not always go according to plan.
What to Wear
The bridesmaid dress is typically chosen by the bride, and it's important to communicate any concerns or preferences early on. It's also common for bridesmaids to wear specific colors or styles of nail polish, shoes, and other accessories to coordinate with the wedding theme.
After the Wedding
Even after the wedding day, the role of a bridesmaid can extend to supporting the bride as she adjusts to married life. This may include checking in with her, offering help, and continuing to be a source of positivity and encouragement.
Remember, the most important thing is to be there for the bride and ensure she feels loved and supported throughout the entire process.
Bridesmaids' Bouquets: Matching the Bride's Bouquet, Good or Bad?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are many creative ways to propose to your bridesmaids. You could write them a heartfelt message, pop a confetti-filled balloon with a note inside, invite them to a dinner party and propose a toast, or even set up a coffee date and ask the barista to write "Will you be my bridesmaid?" on their cup.
Your bridesmaid proposal card should include a heartfelt message that conveys how much their friendship means to you. Some ideas include "I can't say 'I do' without you" and "My wedding day wouldn't be complete without you standing beside me. Be my bridesmaid?"
You can treat your bridesmaids to a box of thoughtful goodies such as nail polish, sheet masks, monogrammed slippers, dried floral arrangements, mini bottles of champagne, and customized wine glasses.
It is recommended to propose to your bridesmaids two to three months after getting engaged. This gives them plenty of time to prepare for all the bridal events and save money if needed.
No, you can propose to them individually if you prefer something more intimate. If you go this route, try to propose to everyone within the same week so no one feels left out.
