Bridesmaids: Final Wedding Preparations And Discussion Timing

Being a bridesmaid is an honour and a lot of fun, but it's also hard work. To make sure everything goes smoothly, it's important to discuss the day-of wedding plans with your bridesmaids ahead of time. This includes providing them with a timeline of the day's events, as well as any pre-wedding activities they need to attend. It's also a good idea to give them a list of things to bring, including their bridesmaid dress, shoes, and accessories. Other practical considerations include hair and makeup appointments, transportation information, and important phone numbers. By keeping your bridesmaids informed and prepared, you can help ensure that your wedding day goes off without a hitch!

When to ask your friends to be bridesmaids

Asking your friends to be your bridesmaids is one of the most important and fun parts of wedding planning. The bridesmaid proposal should occur anywhere between a year to eight months before the wedding. Here are some tips on when to ask your friends to be bridesmaids and what to consider:

Wait Until You Know Your Wedding Date

Before asking your friends to be bridesmaids, it's a good idea to wait until you know your wedding date. This will allow your bridesmaids to have a better idea of whether they can commit to the role. The date might conflict with other commitments, such as another wedding or a major life event.

Take Time to Think About It

Picking your bridesmaids is a significant decision that requires careful thought. If your wedding is happening a year or two after your engagement, take the time to consider the people in your life and who you want by your side throughout the wedding planning process. Think about the friends who will be there for you and help you with the wedding details in the months leading up to your big day.

Know Your Wedding Details

Before choosing your bridesmaids, try to have a clear idea of the kind of bridal shower and bachelorette party you want. These details might influence the size of your bridal party and will help you explain their roles and responsibilities when you ask them to join your wedding party.

Be Engaged for at Least 60 Days

To avoid rushing your decision, give yourself at least 60 days after getting engaged to decide on your bridesmaids. During this grace period, start planning the number of bridesmaids you want and consider what gifts you'd like to give them when you ask.

Have a Follow-Up Conversation

After the initial excitement of being asked to be a bridesmaid, it's natural for your friends to have some stress or apprehension about the responsibilities that come with the role. Within the first few weeks of asking, meet with each bridesmaid to discuss your wedding vision, their roles, and any questions or concerns they may have. Getting everyone on the same page will help as you move closer to your wedding day.

Discuss Day-of Wedding Details

Once you've asked your friends to be your bridesmaids, it's important to keep them informed about the wedding plans and their responsibilities. Create a timeline for your bridesmaids, including pre-wedding events, hair and makeup appointments, items they need to bring, and transportation information. Keep them updated on the ceremony and reception timeline, including when you'll be walking down the aisle, cocktail hour, and dinner seating.

What to pack for the wedding

When to Discuss Day-of Wedding Details With Bridesmaids

It's a good idea to discuss the day-of wedding details with your bridesmaids well in advance, ideally a few months before the wedding. This will give everyone plenty of time to prepare and ensure that things run smoothly on the big day. Here are some key moments when you can discuss what needs to be done:

• During the planning process: As you plan the wedding, regularly check in with your bridesmaids and offer them specific tasks to help take some of the burden off your shoulders.
• At the rehearsal dinner: The rehearsal dinner is an opportunity to go over the timeline of the wedding day, including when and where everyone needs to be. You can also use this time to finalise any last-minute details and address any concerns or questions your bridesmaids may have.
• On the morning of the wedding: Wake up early and make sure your bridesmaids are on track with their preparations. This is also a good time to ensure everyone is clear on their roles and responsibilities during the ceremony and reception.

Now, let's move on to the packing list for the wedding. As a bridesmaid, you'll want to be prepared for anything that comes your way. Here's a detailed list of what to pack for the wedding:

Necessities

• A positive, go-with-the-flow attitude
• A printed timeline of the wedding events, including the itinerary and any relevant addresses
• The wedding invitation, for quick reference of important details
• Contact details of the bridal party, including the maid of honour and other bridesmaids
• Phone charger, preferably both a wall charger and a portable one
• Snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day
• Water bottle to stay hydrated
• Mini pack of tissues for tears or makeup touch-ups
• Copy of your speech, if you're giving one

Fashion Fundamentals

• Rehearsal dinner outfit, something semi-formal
• Your bridesmaid dress, don't forget to leave it hanging by the door so you don't forget it
• Wedding shoes, as requested by the bride
• Comfortable dancing shoes for when you want to let loose
• Heel protectors to save your heels from sinking into the grass
• Clutch that can hold your phone and other essentials without being too bulky
• Jewellery to accessorise your dress, kept in a small bag or box
• Appropriate undergarments, such as a strapless bra or stick-on cups
• Safety pins for any last-minute dress emergencies
• Double-stick tape for wardrobe malfunctions
• Mini steamer to smooth out any wrinkles in your dress
• Lint roller to remove any pet hair or lint from your dress
• Stain remover to tackle any unexpected stains
• Mini sewing kit for emergency alterations
• Change of clothes for the after-party, so you can be comfortable
• Spare tote bag to help the bride carry gifts or decorations at the end of the night

Hair and Makeup Must-Haves

• Inspiration photos for your hair and makeup looks
• Button-down shirt or a bridesmaid robe to stay mess-free while getting ready
• Your own makeup, even if you're getting it professionally done, for touch-ups
• Travel mirror, as there may not be enough mirrors for everyone
• Hairstyling tools, such as a curling iron, in case you need to touch up your hair
• Extra hair ties for the end of the night when you want to let your hair down
• Hairspray and makeup setting spray to keep your look in place
• Dry shampoo if you're attending a next-day brunch and want to refresh your hair
• Bobby pins to keep any loose strands in place
• Perfume, preferably a rollerball for travel convenience
• Deodorant to stay fresh throughout the day
• Oil blotting sheets for a quick, last-minute refresh
• Makeup remover wipes to fix any smudges or smears
• Q-tips or cotton swabs for touch-ups, especially around the eyes
• Clear nail polish for fixing chips or runs in stockings
• Nail file in case of any broken nails
• Tweezers for last-minute clothing adjustments or errant hairs

Extras

• Mints to keep your breath fresh
• Band-aids for any blisters or minor injuries
• Small umbrella in case of unexpected rain
• Tampons, even if you're not expecting your period
• Pain relievers for headaches or cramps
• Emergen-C to boost your immune system while you're on the go
• Eye drops for redness, whether from late nights or happy tears
• Extension cord, as there may not be enough outlets for everyone
• Scissors, as they always come in handy
• Details of a taxi service or a ride-sharing app like Uber, especially if you plan to drink at the reception
• Bottle of bubbly to contribute to morning mimosas
• Straws so you can sip without ruining your lipstick
• Mini speakers to play music while you and the bridal party get ready
• Handwritten note to the bride, filled with congratulations and well wishes
• The bride's favourite snack to help calm her nervous jitters
• Gift for the newlyweds, though you have up to a year to send it if you forget
• Card or gift from your plus-one, if you're bringing a guest

Hair and makeup appointments

When it comes to hair and makeup appointments, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to work with your hair and makeup artists to create a timeline for when each person will receive their services. This includes specifying whether they should arrive with clean, dry hair or wet hair that will be blow-dried. If the bridesmaids are paying for their own services, include the total cost of each appointment, including the tip, on the timeline so they can be prepared.

When deciding on the order of appointments, consider each person's preferences and responsibilities. For example, the mother of the bride may want her services done earlier so she can help out before the ceremony, while a bridesmaid with young children may prefer to have her appointment scheduled around when the babysitter arrives. It is generally recommended to schedule the most responsible bridesmaid earlier in the morning to avoid any delays. Additionally, consider doing makeup after hair appointments to avoid getting hairspray on your face, and schedule the flower girls last as their hair and makeup may need touch-ups throughout the day.

To ensure that everyone's hair and makeup appointments stay on schedule, it is important to have enough stylists and makeup artists. This will help to avoid any delays and keep the day running smoothly. It is also a good idea to request that anyone having their hair and makeup done be available all morning so they can easily swap appointments if needed.

If the bride is covering the cost of hair and makeup for the bridal party, it can be a great way to have some extra time with your group of close friends on the big day. However, this option can be expensive and may require more coordination to accommodate everyone's schedules. Alternatively, bridesmaids can opt to pay for their own hair and makeup services, which gives them more freedom to choose their preferred stylists.

Another option is for the bride and bridesmaids to split the cost of hair and makeup services. This can be a more cost-effective approach and allows the bride to contribute without incurring the full expense. It is important to communicate expectations clearly to the bridal party, regardless of who is paying for the services, and to provide them with any relevant information, such as prices and the names of recommended stylists and makeup artists.

Wedding day transport

When to Discuss Logistics With Your Bridesmaids

It's a good idea to discuss the day-of logistics with your bridesmaids at least a few months before the wedding. This will give them enough time to prepare and make any necessary arrangements. Some sources suggest providing your bridesmaids with a timeline of the day, which can include details such as the time and location of the rehearsal, the dress code, hair and makeup appointments, and transportation information.

Transportation is an important aspect of wedding planning, ensuring that you, your wedding party, and your guests arrive at the ceremony on time. It is also crucial for moving between venues, such as from the ceremony to the reception or an after-party. Here are some things to consider when planning wedding day transport:

• The number of vehicles you need will depend on the size of your wedding party and the number of guests. If you have a large bridal party, you may want to consider booking a larger vehicle like a party bus or a sprinter van to keep everyone together.
• If your budget allows, offering transport to all your guests can be a nice touch, especially if you have guests from out of town or if your wedding is in an area that is difficult to navigate.
• Discuss transportation options with your bridesmaids and groomsmen. If they are not getting ready on-site, booking a smaller vehicle like a sprinter van can be a convenient way to ensure they arrive at the venue on time.
• Consider the timing of your transportation. Allow enough time for multiple trips if needed and account for potential traffic delays.
• When booking transportation, ask about tipping, gas, mileage, and other potential costs to avoid surprise charges later.
• Book your wedding transportation early to ensure availability, especially if you have specific vehicle requirements, such as a vintage car.
• If your wedding is in a remote location or an area with limited transportation options, consider providing shuttle services for your guests. This can be especially helpful for destination weddings.
• For a unique touch, you could opt for alternative modes of transport such as boats, ferries, or even a horse-drawn carriage.
• Don't forget to plan for your grand exit! You can book a vintage car, limo, or even a fun getaway car like a two-seater Ferrari for your departure.

Bridesmaids' duties

Before the Wedding:

• Plan and attend pre-wedding parties, such as the bachelorette party and bridal shower. Offer to help the maid of honour with the planning and execution of these events.
• Shop for and pay for bridesmaid attire, including dresses, shoes, and accessories. Be respectful of the bride's wishes and provide sensitive feedback when requested.
• Book travel and hotel reservations for the wedding weekend.
• Attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
• Provide emotional support to the bride throughout the planning process. Check in regularly and offer practical help.
• Assist with wedding planning tasks, such as stuffing envelopes, alphabetising escort cards, DIY projects, or accompanying the bride to appointments.
• Purchase a wedding gift for the couple from their registry or contribute to a group gift.

On the Wedding Day:

• Arrive early at the designated getting-ready location with all the necessary gear, including attire, shoes, jewellery, and makeup.
• Keep the bride calm, collected, and hydrated, ensuring she eats and drinks something.
• Answer any incoming calls or texts and handle any logistical questions.
• Help the bride into her dress and assist with shoes, jewellery, and veil adjustments.
• Assist the maid of honour with any tasks, such as last-minute runs or coordinating with vendors.
• Provide snacks and drinks for the bridal party and vendors.
• Act as a point of contact for guests and vendors, directing them to the appropriate areas.
• Participate in the ceremony by processing down the aisle and fulfilling any assigned roles.
• Be ready for group photographs with the wedding party.
• Mingle with guests, sign the guest book, visit the photo booth, and participate in guest activities.
• Make a speech, if pre-arranged.
• Help round up family members for photographs.
• Assist the bride with her dress, veil, and bouquet throughout the day.
• Carry an emergency kit and the bride's lipstick for touch-ups.
• Assist the bride when using the restroom, if needed.
• Keep the bride hydrated and fed by offering water and snacks.
• Help with any young members of the bridal party.
• Be the first on the dance floor and encourage others to join.

After the Wedding:

• Help gather personal items, transport gifts, and participate in post-wedding events like a next-day brunch.
• Offer to return any leftover items or rentals to the hotel or vendor.
• Create a digital collection of photos and videos taken by the wedding party while waiting for the official photos.

Frequently asked questions