The Right Bridesmaid
Choosing the group of women who will stand up with you on your wedding day isn't as easy as it might seem. There are many things to consider when choosing your bridesmaids, as more often than not they will be your support network when times are stressful.
Although you may want to include all your friends, co workers and relatives in your bridal party this is not always possible. When selecting candidates for your bridal party it is important to consider.
Responsibilities
Some typical bridesmaids’ responsibilities include:
- Helping to plan and pay for the Hen’s night
- To be there for rehearsals
- Ensure the bride gets to the wedding on time
- Arrive before other guests at the wedding
- Wear the correct attire
- Pay for their dresses and show up for fittings
- Walk down the isle and later on dance with a groomsman
- Be available to pose in photos
- Look after the bride attentively all throughout her wedding day
Location
It is sometimes inevitable that the bridesmaid you want for your wedding may not be located close to you. This should not be a determining factor in choosing your wedding party but is something to be considered. Will you expect the bridesmaid to be able to pop around and help you decide on decorations and come for fittings? Or do you have a close female relative that can fill that can help with tasks often delegated to the bridesmaid?
Money obligations
It is vital to let your bride know what is to be expected of her financially. Traditionally the bridesmaid is expected to pay for her own dress and if located some distance away her travel fare. Alternatively you could offer to help pay for part of the dress or fare as a gift to say ‘Thank You’ for her help.
Conflicting personalities
Consider how well the women you have picked for your bridal party will get along with each other. You may want to reconsider placing two friends who are no longer on good terms together in close contact. However having said this true friends and bridesmaids who don’t’ know each other will work together to ensure that your wedding day runs smoothly.
Life situations
Think about what life situation your potential bridesmaids are in. They may be pregnant, already involved in other weddings or busy with other aspects of their lives. In this case they may appreciate being doing a less demanding role on the day.
While it is not possible to involve everyone you want in your bridal party there are still other important roles that the special people in your life can perform on your wedding day.
Perhaps you have a talented friend who can sing or play an instrument on the day. You could ask a relative to do a reading during the ceremony, act as ushers, masters of ceremonies, guest book attendant or even include them in your speech and acknowledge their support and friendship through the years.
By taking the time to ensure that you choose a responsible and supportive bridal party you can rest assured that your wedding day will be as enjoyable and run as smooth as possible with the help of your close companions and relatives by your side.