If you caught on to my Bridesmaids reference, then we would TOTALLY be friends. If you couldn’t tell by my title, this blog post is going to be all about your girl gang aka your bridesmaids! Who you chose to stand by your side on your wedding day is so important, and these girls (or boys) will play a major role in some of your sweetest memories. They will be the ones who talk you down from an emotional breakdown, help you find your wedding gown, get ready with you, and so much more. It is crucial to choose your bridal party based on your genuine relationships, not because you feel obligated. You do not want to look back on your wedding pictures and regret seeing your cousin Sally that your mom insisted you include. Choosing a well-rounded bridal party puts a lot of pressure on the bride, but it is essential to choose each person with good intentions. This group should ultimately be lifelong friends or family, people who support your relationship and will remain an active figure in your life.
Your bridesmaids are your support system. This is their main role throughout the entire wedding planning process and specifically on the day of. You need to keep in mind that this group of ladies are there to help you, but they shouldn’t be expected to build your center pieces or help track RSVP’s. As a bride, it is easy to become self-focused and start creating last minute expectations of the bridal party. They have their own lives too, including families and careers, and they should not be expected to make your life their own. Another notion when choosing your bridesmaids is to keep money in mind. Be mindful of your expectations and how heavily it affects their finances. You may not be able to have a lavish bachelorette party, extravagant bridal shower, and expensive bridesmaid dresses all together. Sometimes you might need to compromise on one or two things. I recommend making a list of your estimated expenses and privately talking with each bridesmaid to make sure it is feasible for them. You need to find the perfect balance between planning your dream wedding and being consciously aware of those who are involved. Communication is key, just like your future marriage. Make sure you are up front and able to talk openly with your tribe. That will ensure smooth sailing throughout the entire process!
P.S. Keep an eye out for a new blog post about bridesmaid dresses! One of my own bridesmaids is pretty much a professional bridesmaid at this point and has some great tips on how to choose the best dress!
Photo Credit: Yana Shellman Photography