Being asked to be a bridesmaid is very special and a wonderful opportunity to show your appreciation while sharing closely in some of the most important moments of your friend’s life.
Bear in mind that it is not just an honourary title – there are certain things that will be expected of you. If you are a great friend you’ll want to make sure you’re the best support possible during this stressful and exciting time.
Before you accept
When your friend pops the questions you don’t have to say yes. In fact if you think you won’t be able to fill this role properly you should let the bride know upfront. You’ll need to be available during the run up to the wedding and for the big day itself so if your schedule is packed consider where you’ll fit in time for your bridesmaid duties. On top of this you might be required to spend some cash on things like the bridal shower, your dress, hair, make-up, accessories and accommodation. Plan your budget.
The basics
If you’ve decided you’re up for the job of bridesmaid, here’s a checklist of things that you should be ready to get involved with:
- Helping the bride to choose her own dress as well as yours
- Arranging the bridal shower and/or bachelorette party
- Assisting with making invitations, favours and any other hands-on tasks
- Running last minute errands
- Getting ready with the bride and helping her on the day with her dress and touch-ups
- Taking part in the bridal photo shoot
- Supporting the bride emotionally during the planning and on the big day itself
- Making a speech or proposing a toast at the reception
Going the extra mile
If you want to be a great bridesmaid first and foremost be excited with the bride always keeping in mind that this is her day. Don’t forget to purchase a wedding gift for the couple. If you can, team up with the rest of the bridal party to buy a bigger gift together that will be extra special for the bride. For added bridesmaid points you can offer to do some of these chores:
- Keep a record of gifts received at the bridal shower so that the bride can thank people
- Collect hired items on the day prior
- Organise some food and bubbly for while you all get ready together
- Collect bouquets on the day itself
- Make a list of items to be collected after the wedding
- Have an emergency kit on hand on the day including things like painkillers, plasters, wet wipes and water
- Accompany the bride to the bathroom during the reception
- Get the dance floor going (and keep it going)
- Be available to fetch and carry the morning after the wedding
Above all else, have lots of fun with your bestie!
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