Bridesmaid etiquette is simple, yet many women who are asked to be bridesmaids worry about the rules and manners that come with this role. These are some basic guidelines that will help you be a well-mannered, elegant and level-headed bridesmaid, but remember that the bride is one of your closest friends. As long as you're there for her and supporting her, you're doing just fine.
1. Respond to your invitation to be a bridesmaid as soon as possible. I cannot stress this enough. Also, let the bride know when you're available to go dress shopping with her or any other tasks. Find out when the wedding will be and safeguard that day from any and all other activities. If there is a date that you absolutely cannot be available, let her know. The last thing any bride wants to worry about it a no-show bridesmaid. If you agree to be her bridesmaid, you do not necessarily need to send an RSVP, so keep your official invite as a cute memento for your scrapbook.
2. You will be expected to pay for your own dress, accessories, travel and lodging expenses. If you have any financial issues with this, talk to your bride and let her know the situation. Something can always be worked out, so don't sweat the small stuff.
3. The bride will be picking out your dress, hair and maybe even makeup for the big day. Whether it's the most beautiful dress or hideous dress you could ever imagine, wear it with confidence and pride. If you're worried about the bride's taste, offer your advice. But remember, she gets to decide.
4. As the bridesmaid, you will most likely be expected to organize the bridal shower. Make sure to ask the bride for suggestions of where she would like it to be, who she wants to see there and what kind of food and drinks she would like. Book the venue and make arrangements for decorations and food in advance. Last minute planning will only bring stress.
5. Be outgoing and friendly. Get to know the other members of the wedding party and work together to create a beautiful and harmonious ceremony for the happy couple. At the wedding, you are a secondary hostess. Make pleasant conversations with the guests and even hit the dance floor. Just be cautious if there is an open bar. Don't be that girl that's had too much. Enjoy yourself, but keep it classy.
6. Be the bride's right hand. You will be participating in preparing for the wedding, so make sure you're at every event (and on time). That means not only the engagement party, wedding rehearsal and bridal shower but also dress shopping, looking at venues and anything else the bride asks you to do.
7. Don't be on time, be early. On the bride's wedding day, be ready to go before she is. It's your job to help her get ready and look and feel beautiful on her special day, so you need to get ready in advance.
8. Compliment the bride, reassure her about how she looks and feels. This is her big day, so make her feel comfortable and special.
9. Sign the wedding guestbook. The couple will keep this as a memento. You're one of their honored guests so of course they want to see your name in there :)
10. During the ceremony, you will be standing to the left of and slightly behind the bride and maid of honor. Be quiet, patient and pay attention. Do not yawn, grimace, fidget, play with your hair, etc. Quietly show the bride and groom how happy you are for them by letting them be the center of attention and admiration. This is the beginning of their new life, so relax and smile knowing that you've helped them make their journey to the altar.
xo Alaina
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