Your
partner just popped the big question and you're itching to tell the entire
world. Who do you call? Your family and close besties, of course. Is one of
your best friends a male--say, someone you might even consider standing in as
your man of honor? That's right--a man of honor!
Before you give me the crazy eyes and
shrug it off, take a quick second. For those of you who have yet to seeMade of Honor, don't worry,
I've got you covered (clickhere!)
While it's not as common as having a standard maid of honor, some bold women
have considered including a man of honor.
According to The Knot, "More and more brides and grooms are asking close friends of the opposite sex to be their attendants -- and it's about time. If you want him to be your honor attendant, call him the man of honor."
Worried
that your man of honor will have trouble fitting in with the rest of your
wedding party? Wedding experts at The Knot have more advice for you. "If you want him to stand with the bridesmaids, call him a bridesman. Your guy should wear whatever the groomsmen are wearing. Also, let your photographer know that he should be photographed as one of your attendants in group wedding party pictures."
It's possible to have a man of honor without things getting weird. Start thinking outside of the box and don't rule out this idea if your sidekick just happens to be a male!
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Every bridesmaid wants to look her best at the wedding, so keeping up with your workout routine is imperative. One way you can revamp your workout is to add in some yoga. Yoga has become a major trend in the fitness world with a wide variety of different workouts focusing on toning, strengthening and limbering the body while simultaneously relaxing the mind. Not only will your balance, posture, strength, flexibility and physique improve but you'll also be able to let go of any stress that you may be feeling during the pre-wedding process. Decreasing your stress levels and increasing your inner calm will keep your energy levels high and your spirits even higher.
If you have a gym membership try the yoga classes that are offered. You can also try these yoga workouts from Fitness Magazine at home.
One of the biggest trends out there is faaaabb nail color. Changing your nail color from day to night or outfit to outfit really puts the whole look together. I know that I love changing my nail color to the mood I am feeling or the style I am trying to personify. This trend should be no different for the wedding day, however just different rules apply.
Instead of going for statement ridden nails like black and glitter, or tropical colors that are perfect with a tan like hot pink orange and green remember subtle and simple is best. You don't want to look tacky or out of place. Colors that work best are: french, pastels, creams and deep red/purples.
As for the cut, you never want to go too long or too short. A little past the skin is just right. Being too long is not only hard to function with but takes away from the classy and sophisticated appeal.
Also, don't be afraid to add some style to your nails. Just because you shouldn't have over the top nails while being a bridesmaid, adding some flare and flavor is always something to be proud of and to showcase your fashion flare. Here are some of my favorite bridesmaid perfect nails from Pinterest.
So cute, right? All of them are so easy to do to, and you can find all the links on our Pinterest account.
Also, check out the Knot's proper nail etiquette and cleanliness tips and tricks. You will learn a lot of creative and smart tricks to let your nails shine as you walk down the aisle before your bride!
Ever seen the tacky yet unrefined and somehow can't get your eyes away from the television show on WE called Bridezillas. I may be embarrassed to admit this (but hey, compared to the other guilty pleasure tv shows I watch like Say Yes to the Dress, David Tuttera Specials and Pick the Wedding people who know me should not be too surprised) but I have definitely caught the show once or twice.......okay maybe a lot of times. For those of you who haven't seen it, it's a show about all these crazy stressed, girls gone crazy obsessive brides who bless their fiance's souls somehow still pull off amazing and beautiful weddings. Now, of course we at BB can never forget about our girls. The bridesmaids. All you bridesmaids have to deal with all the bridezilla drama and headaches. The annoying repetitive phone calls at 5 a.m., the bantering and hollering about whether silver or gold silverware and of course the crys after crys that somehow turn into some sort of silent, head bobbing, ugly cry. Sounds sooooo apealing? Well, we here at BB can promise you THIS DOES NOT HAVE TO HAPPEN. We guarantee that if you are the best bridesmaid you can be, your bride will have nothing to be a zilla about.
Before I dish out the secrets of how to be a calm cool and collected bridesmaid, check out a video clip from the tv show Bridezillas, to give yourself a little bit of motivation inspiration (and even a little bit of fright) to ensure your beloved friend remains your friend post "I do."
Whew, you made it through. Now, I know you must be even more eager for these tips:
What do you do? Take a deep breath and keep in mind that her insanity is only temporary. In the meantime, follow our tips for handling the Knot's seven stressful situations.
Situation 1:
She insists the bridesmaids wear tight, strapless dresses that make everyone feel and look like sausages.
What to do: Unfortunately, the bride has final say when it comes to your frocks, even though you'll be shelling out the cash for them. If she asks for input along the way, it's fine to suggest something more flattering, but if she's made her decision, you'll have to suck it up (and in) with a smile. If you're really bent out of shape, suggesting a pretty cover-up to wear for at least part of the evening may be an agreeable compromise.
Situation 2:
When you ask for a guest list for her bridal shower, she hands over a list of everyone she's ever met since grade school.
What to do: While any number of guests over about 25 is pushing it, complaining about the large number of invitees will only cause unneeded tension between you and the bride. You asked her whom she wanted there and she told you, right? Instead of pushing back, round up more hostesses to help organize and put together the party. This way, you'll have additional resources for the purchasing of food and decorations, not to mention more manpower for things like writing out invitations.
Situation 3:
Your friend harasses you with nonstop chatter about the wedding, and rarely (if ever) inquires about what's going on in your life.
What to do: Don't take it personally. A wedding is a really big deal with endless stress-inducing details. So she needs all the ear time she can get for bouncing off ideas and getting advice. Zip your lips for now and let her unload as much as she needs to. Through it all, keep in mind that it'll be over soon and you'll have your good-listening, interested, fun-loving pal back.
Situation 4:
She's requested that you spend an evening wrapping ribbon around hundreds of little silver bells. The problem is that you're the only one who could make it and it's now three o'clock in the morning.
What to do: At this point, you're not the only one fried. She needs lots of help with menial tasks like this one, and your willingness to pitch in is not only generous, but also comes with being a bridesmaid. But unless the wedding is the following day, don't feel bad about calling it a night. Reassure her that you'll be back to help her finish, and call around for extra hands for next time. If there's no other option but to persevere, give each other five-minute shoulder rubs and put on dance tunes to keep yourselves going.
Situation 5:
When it comes time to plan the bachelorette party, your friend won't budge on any idea other than an extended weekend away at a pricey resort.
What to do: Even though she is the bride, the bachelorette party is a gift from you and her other friends, so while it should be something that she'll enjoy, demanding an expensive vacation is crossing the line. Explain that while you would all love to take her away for an over-the-top trip, it just isn't feasible for everyone. Suggest more affordable accommodations, a destination closer to home, or a shorter stay. Or, tell her that you understand her wishes but that in the end, you'd like to surprise her.
Situation 6:
She insists that the whole bridal party have hair and makeup done for a jaw-dropping fee.
What to do: You might have to grin and bear this one, but first have a heart-to-heart with her. If professionally done hair and makeup is at the top of her list, she may be willing to reconsider costs elsewhere and pony up for your shoes, or acquiesce to lessening the costs of the bridal shower or bachelorette party.
Situation 7:
She puts you at a table where you don't know anyone, except her old Aunt Martha, who you only just met briefly at the rehearsal dinner.
What to do: Strike up a conversation with Aunt Martha and charm the rest of the guests too, because your job is also partly to play host. There's a good chance that your friend put you at this table because she knows how wonderful you are with strangers, and these may be the folks who don't know anyone. So put on a bright smile and make them all feel welcome.
Remember to just keep in mind that this is not YOUR day. If you go in with that mindset you will let the bride's decisions (however terrible and tacky you may think they are)be the decisions as you will know it is what would make her most happy for her big day. However, also keep in mind that you are not the brides personal slave. For situations that you think you are being taken advantage of, speak up, but only in a way that is not attacking and diminimizing as the bride is so stressed she does not need anything else on her plate.
Remember why you were asked to be in the wedding. You are a special part of your friend's life and it is an honor to be by her side on the big day. Therefore, if you are there every step of the way, the bride has nothing to freak about, and trust me when I say you don't want a bride freaking.
We hope these tips were helpful and I have every bit of faith in you that you will be a Blushing Bridesmaid on the big day, instead of running for the hills from the bridezilla.
We all know our blushing bridesmaids love to work it down the aisle with their bride. Why not listen to this upbeat playlist to get you ladies in the mood? These tunes are perfect to groove to on the dancefloor after the wedding. Who knows-- maybe you all you single ladies out there will meet your future hubby thanks to your awesome dance moves. If he likes it maybe he'll put a ring on it ;)
Time is ticking ladies! Brides may think that they have all this time to plan their wedding, but beware-- weddings come and go like a blink of an eye. A bride's biggest fear is to forget something huge, but what about the little details? Bridesmaids that's where you come in.
The bride picked YOU to be in her wedding party because she trusts and adores you. She is counting on you to reduce her stress level and liven things up with your positive attitude. The Knot gives a great top ten list of things brides often forget. These are things they never think of because they are worrying about venues, food, dresses, guests, the reception, etc. Help your girl out by reviewing this list and reminding your bride not to forget these important things.
Remember-- you are your bride's support network. Don't let her worry about the small stuff. Be there to help her every step of the way and her special day will be so much sweeter thanks to your help. Go get em' BB's :)
Spring is finally here, and with it are the fresh new fragrances of the season. Here are the top five fragrance picks for every bridesmaid. Whether you're a classic romantic, luxury diva or earthy free spirit, you'll love this Spring scent line-up, perfect for the Spring bridesmaid.
Chanel is naturally a timeless favorite that cannot be excluded from any fragrance line-up. The company's new scent Coco Mademoiselle, $64, 1.2 oz., captures all of the characteristics of Chanel fragrance. It is classic, feminine, elegant and light while embracing a new freshness and sensuality to embody the independent spirit of the young Coco Chanel. With floral and oriental notes including morning rose, mandarin, vanilla and jasmine, this scent has already become a fragrance favorite.
Just looking at the bottle you can tell this fragrance is for all of the romantic bridesmaids out there. Valentina by Valentino, $80, 1.7 oz. is stunningly sweet and inspired by Roman and Italian scents of jasmine, orange blossom, wild strawberry, vanilla, amber and cedar. This fresh and floral scent creates new parallels of delicateness and strength simultaneously with elegance and rebellion. There is no denying that it deserves a spot on our top five fragrance list.
For all you luxe bridesmaids out there, this is the scent for you. The new fragrance by Jimmy Choo, Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum, $85, 3.3 oz., is the ideal modern scent of femininity, luxury and style. Floral, fruity, woodsy, sweet and exotic it combines a vast array of scents ranging from tiger orchid, tea rose, cedarwood, sweet toffee and Indonesian patchouli.
The number five spot goes to the scent that will soon lead us into Summer. Light Blue by Dolce & Gabanna, $68, 1.7 oz., is a fresh Mediterranean fragrance perfect for the tropical bridesmaid. With notes of Sicilian citron, Granny Smith apple, bluebells, jasmine sambac, bamboo, lemon, white rose, cedarwood, amber and musk this scent epitomizes the beauty of the seas.
White princess-inspired ball gown. A black tie affair. Frilly bridesmaids dresses. These are often the things we see at most weddings these days.
For brides that like to go against the grain, we found the perfect wedding style for you and your bridesmaids: the boho-chic wedding. Bohemian weddings involve pastel color palettes, flower power and a free-spirited attitude. Get inspired by the bohemian bridal tea party photo shoot provided by Bridal Musings.
The boho style is something I personally love and see as a popular trend today. As much as I enjoy seeing the classic "cookie-cutter" bridal party walk down the aisle, it would be nice to see something different. What better way to switch things up than with the "flower child" theme? Flowy gowns, natural makeup, and no shoes give a relaxed vibe to all guests. Step aside traditional bride, the bohemian bride is coming down the aisle.
Do you have a special little lady that is too old to stand in as your flower girl and too young to be one of your bridesmaids (typically between the ages of 9 and 14) but still want her to play part in your wedding? Well, think about promoting her as one of your junior bridesmaids. Although younger in age, junior bridesmaids often take on their role with great seriousness and are eager to engage with their elders.
According to The Knot, there are a handful of traditional junior bridesmaid duties that must be fulfilled:
While junior bridesmaids are not expected to give showers, they should plan to attend and help out with cleaning up, favor-making, and more.
At bride's request, go wedding gown shopping and give input (especially if the junior bridesmaid is a sister or daughter).
Buy a dress similar (or the same) in color and style to the bridesmaids', plus a matching corsage (or bouquet).
Attend the ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
Help out the ushers by seating guests.
Hand out programs at the ceremony or bubbles, confetti, rice, and other send-off props afterwards.
Walk down the aisle in the procession, and stand at the altar/stage along with the other attendants.
Stand in the receiving line, if requested by the bride.
Write to the bride and her parents to thank them for including her.
Duties. Expenses. Etiquette. What do you do when there's dissent amongst the bridesmaids or when "Bridezilla" loses her cool? The Knot answers the basic bridesmaid questions and provides insight for what to do in a given situation.
Every wedding is different, and your bride should tell you what she expects of you and the other members of the wedding party. If one of the bridesmaids is slacking on her duties, confidentially bring it up to the bride and let her handle the situation. Agreeing to be a bridesmaid does not mean you can't provide input, but it does mean that you acknowledge that this is the bride's big day. Your job is to have fun making her special day unforgettable.
It's the big day. The bridal party is all met and getting ready to be
dolled and pampered, the champagne is poured and the bride is wearing a
beaming smile. Yet, even though squeals and laughter is bursting
throughout the room, there is still something missing. A perfect
playlist full of the perfect wedding songs to get the wedding party even
more excited. As a bridesmaid be one step ahead and fill up your iPod
with a playlist of songs to listen to the morning of
your wedding -- you know, while you're excitedly getting your hair and
makeup done with the bride and fellow bridesmaids. Here is a classic
list provided by The Knot that will sure to set the mood!
"Going to the Chapel" by The Crystals
"Chapel of Love" by The Beach Boys
"Love and Marriage" by Frank Sinatra
"Get Me to the Church on Time" from My Fair Lady
"White Wedding" by Billy Idol
"Plan on Forever" by Sue Ann Carwell & Mervyn Warren
"I Do (Cherish You)" by 98 Degrees
"Wedding Day" by Bee Gees
"(Today I Met) The Boy I'm Gonna Marry" by Darlene Love
"It Had to Be You" by Harry Connick Jr.
"A Moment Like This" by Kelly Clarkson
"How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)" by James Taylor
"You're the One That I Want" from Grease
"I Say a Little Prayer" by Dionne Warwick or Aretha Franklin
If you loved the first article on a former BB get ready to learn about another fabulous woman and her time as a blushing bridesmaid. Kelsey Stewart is a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University from Mechanicsville, Virginia. This psychology major has been a bridesmaid in her brother's wedding and is currently in the process of being a bridesmaid in her college suite mate's wedding. Have fun reading about Kelsey's time involved in wedding planning and all the helpful advice she has to offer.
Steph: What was it like being a bridesmaid for your future sister-in-law? Kelsey: It was definitely an interesting experience. Not only was it weird to see my brother get married, but to see a romantic side of him where he is so in love with his bride. It made me a lot more excited to welcome her to the family. Steph: As a bridesmaid, did it make you feel closer to the bride? Kelsey: It did make us a lot closer. I also enjoyed seeing how much her and my brother love each other. They were so romantic throughout the wedding that it made me love them together even more. Steph: That is so adorable! How would you describe the wedding? Kelsey: Megan and Scott's wedding was very personal. It incorporated her girly and simplistic style with a casual atmosphere. The wedding took place in Virginia Beach during the summer so this beach themed wedding catered to having a great time. Steph: How would you describe the overall look that Megan put together for the bridesmaids? Kelsey: Our look was very casual and relaxed. Since it was an outdoor wedding, Megan wanted us to be comfortable. We all wore long green dresses with flowers in our hair. To go with the casual tone, we even got to wear flip flops. Steph: What was your favorite part of the day? Kelsey: Getting ready for the wedding- the bridal party drank wine and relaxed while talking about Megan and Scott's relationship. It was sweet to see Megan and her dad interact before the wedding since that is such a sentimental time for a father on his daughter's wedding day. Overall, the day was special, meaningful and beautiful. Steph: Now that you have some bridesmaid experience, what is it like preparing to be a bridesmaid in another wedding? Kelsey: It is interesting to see how different each couple is getting married. Megan and Scott have graduated from college, entered the workforce and have been living together for quite some time. Lizzy and Wes are closer to my age, and do not currently have the same lifestyle as my brother and his wife do. However, it just shows me that love is so powerful that it comes at any time and any age. Steph: That is definitely true and an interesting perspective to have. What new things are you noticing as a second time bridesmaid? Kelsey: I am noticing a lot of the little details that go into planning a wedding. To be more specific, a bridesmaid should consider wedding costs, time management, the bride's stress level and always giving her positive encouragement. I am realizing it is my job to be there for her every step of the way and I am finding it easier to do that the second time around. Steph: Describe the bride you are currently a bridesmaid for Kelsey: Lizzy is a sweet southern belle from North Carolina. She is one of the most sincere people I know and I can trust her with anything. She is a great person to talk to and very reliable with anything you need. I think she is such a good person that it makes me very happy to help make her wedding day as special as possible. Steph: What is your favorite part about being a bridesmaid? Kelsey: I love getting to experience the wedding as bridesmaid even though I obviously am not the bride. It is nice to see how much planning goes into a wedding and being able to be a part of that process. The best part for me is seeing how happy the bride is. Their happiness radiates the entire wedding. It motivates me to make her feel even more special and help her embark on the new journey her and her groom are about to embark on.
Kelsey clearly has a lot of incredible advice to give for all current or future bridesmaids. I hope you enjoyed what she has to say and learned something from her personal experiences. Stay tuned for more articles on former BB's and you never know you could be one soon too :)
Being that most bridesmaids don't get to pick their dresses for the wedding day, accessorizing your dress to match your personality is something that (if the bride allows you to of course) can really make you stand out and show your uniqueness and fashion sense! You can snazz up your plain boring dress with killer heels, bold necklaces, hair pieces, cute clutches and so many other different fashion forward pieces. There are several tips and tricks how to not look too over-the top and also how to not to be boring and lost in the crowd.
REMEMBER!
- You don't want to take attention away from the bride. Usually one bold statement piece can make the whole dress scream YOU. You can do a bunch of simple pieces together if that is also your style, just keep in mind you don't want to look too tacky.
- A word about necklaces: makes sure that they work properly with the
neckline of your dress. A good length that works with almost
every neckline: about 14 inches.
- Choose bags that complement their wedding day attire in color and
style. Some purse styles that are hot right now -- basic drawstring
pouches, retro-looking wrist-strap bags and clutches. Small is better for purses.
-If your allowed to do your hair in different ways, remember to style it up in ways that complement your face. If you usually wear your hair down everyday, or curly everyday try doing the opposite to make it extra special and different for the big day. New trends with your hair are half-up half down, sock buns on the top of your head, low braids parted to the side, and bangs poofed with a pony-tail. Try to avoid, gaudy diamond clips in your hair, real flowers in your hair (save that for the cute little flower girl) plain straight hair and typical braids etc;
-When it comes to nail polish, remember to never over do it! A simple neutral color or french manicure always works the best. Stay away from the black, neon and hot pink. Although they may be great colors and super trendy they don't send the right message while walking down the aisle.
Now here are four examples of the same dress and accessorized in two different ways. You can make it work with no
matter what your unique wedding style is like. Check out these hot new
looks.
Boho Chic (from top): gold cuff by Halston Heritage ($45); sunglasses by Michael Kors ($90); feathered handbag by ASOS ($42); shoes by Kelsi Dagger ($56); rings by Urban Outfitters; earrings by Anthropologie ($98). Hollywood Glamour (from top): lipstick by Makeup Forever at Sephora ($19); pearl bracelet from Neiman Marcus ($250); gemstone clutch by Judith Leiber at Bergdorf Goodman ($1,900); black sandals by Nine West ($49); earrings from Macy's ($50); crystal bracelet by J. Crew ($60).
There are so many ways to step away from the cookie cutter bridesmaids look. If the bride gives you free-range to add style to your dress remember these tips and trends. Coming from a fashion-lover, every walk is a fashion run-way so don't forget to add your style and fashion-diva self to the wedding aisle.
Nowadays, most couples create a registry of the items they would like to receive for their wedding. Sure you could buy the happy couple a blender, stainless steel cookware or a new Keurig (sidenote: the bread machine is the most-returned wedding gift, avoid it at all costs). There's absolutely nothing wrong with buying something from the registry, the couple has already said that they want that specific item. But if you want to do something a little extra, here are few more personal gifts.
This is such a cute idea and a great memento from the wedding. Take one of the wedding invitations and turn it into a decoration. You have several options, such as simply framing it so that it can hang on the wall or having it printed on a throw pillow. Another great choice is to make it into a decoupage plate. The couple will be daily reminded of their wedding and the loving friend that gave them such a sentimental gift.
An engraved photo album is also a great option. It captures all of the wonderful moments of the big day and preserves those memories for years to come. Make sure to write in the names of guests, the place of the wedding and any cute or memorable experiences of that day. I like the more rustic look of this example, with the wooden-like cover that looks carved.
Event tickets are a fun alternative or add-on to a registry gift. Whether it's to a basketball game, broadway show or concert it's a great pre-paid date for the newlyweds. Just make sure it's an event that both the bride and groom will enjoy going to together, and one that they can have time to put into their busy schedules.
Honeymoon gifts are always appreciated. Some ideas are couples snorkeling at sunset, couples massages and sailing lessons. Find out where the couple is honeymooning, what amenities the resort or hotel offers and what the couple would be interested in doing.
Hope these ideas helped you in your search for the perfect wedding gift. Whether you stick with the registry or add on some personal touches remember to write a sweet and meaningful card congratulating the newlyweds and telling them how honored you are to be a part of their special day.
Have a close friend or family member that is heading for the altar? What better way to celebrate and show her some love than with a fabulous bridal shower? With a little planning and creativity, you'll be able to organize an event she will never forget. Here five important things to remember when planning the special soiree:
It's all about the timing - You're looking to host the bridal shower anywhere from two months to 3 weeks before the actual ceremony. Aim for a Saturday or Sunday - plan for a brunch, luncheon or afternoon tea that will last three to four hours.
Head Count - Plan to invite and accommodate for 30-40 guests (more or less depending on your preference!) Only invite guests that are invited to the wedding, and mail the invitations at least six weeks before the shower date.
Location, location, location - While some traditional ceremonies are held at a close family member's home or in a private room in a restaurant, don't rule out activity-centered showers. Some ideas include pottery shops, design studios for flower arranging or jewelry stores to create new, precious gems.
Rethink the "girls only" aspect - Showers aren't just for the ladies anymore! It's common for couples to have a joint shower, such as a a cocktail party, barbecue or gathering for drinks at a favorite nightclub. Just consider it!
Celebrate & enjoy - This day is devoted to the bride and her girls (but don't forget that it's OK to include the men!). Eat, drink, open gifts and mingle with other guests.
While this is one of the first bridesmaid tasks, remember that starting off on the right foot can be easy and fun. Get creative with your theme (click here and here for some fun and buzz worthy ideas) and you'll be sure to amazing all your guests.
xo Lisl
P.S. - Here are some fun bridal shower games to consider!
This past weekend I attended my
FIRST EVER (and definitely first of many) bachelorette party. It was for my long time family friend,
and soon to be bride in April, the beautiful Kimberly Baxter. I was so excited to come home and
celebrate one of the last single nights of my good friends life.
Kim’s best friend Brenna threw the
SURPRISE bachelorette party, and I thoroughly enjoyed having an inside scoop
and look to one of the most fun times in the wedding process. Now, I was the youngest one at the
party, and also one of the few single gals, so I wasn’t sure what I was in for,
but boy, did these women know how to have a fun time and really show Kimmy a
good “last” night out.
The bridesmaids really did their
part in planning a bachelorette party that Kim would love, not what they would
necessarily love. That is the most
important thing to remember when planning a bachelorette party for your bride. This night is about the bride to be,
and what she would want to do, and what makes her feel comfortable. You never want to put the bride in a
position she won’t feel comfortable in just because that is what the
stereotypical bachelorette party entails.
There are so many fun and different
ways to throw the best bachelorette party. Kim’s was perfect for her and I enjoyed every bit of
it. It truly is a great night to
step away from all the stress and planning of the wedding and to go out and
have fun with the friends who mean the most to you. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to plan many
more bachelorette parties down the road!
