Best friends. Sisters. Cousins. Co-workers.
Bridesmaids come in all shapes, sizes, forms, and personalities. When it comes to planning your wedding, those bridesmaids must conform and execute perfection, right?
Wrong.
Your bridesmaids (and this is including your maid/matron of honor) are your closest gal pals. You chose them to witness your wedding day and be “Team Bride”. With your decision to ask them came their decision to accept (hopefully). However, their confirmation does not enter them into a legal contract of what to do, how to do, and why to do without any if’s, and’s or butt’s. (tee-hee)
photo by Brian Lapsansky
So, how much do you ask of your bridesmaids?
Well, let’s start with the dress. We all know that you “can shorten it and wear it again” but let’s be real. It likely won’t happen. And unless you (as the Bride) are forking over the funds to purchase the frocks, then it’s best to have a leadership role but still listen to the concerns and the realistic capabilities of your tribe – err, girls. Give them direction and accept the fact that what looks good on one, doesn’t always gel with another.
photo by Swoonoverit
In the photo above, the bride gave her girls a color palette and they chose their own unique dress and style. And they still look like a group of happy bridesmaids. Win! Letting the girls pick out their own dress is a huge benefit for most girls. And if some need more help, schedule a shopping day (or shopping hour) to help her out.
Ok, so what about the accessories? This is where you can get more picky (in my opinion) but with a price. Let’s say you want them all to sport the same necklace? Easy enough. You’re likely not going to offend anyone by asking this and it makes for a great gift to give to them at your Bachelorette Party. Shoes? They can be gifted, too – but I’d have them pick out their own for argument’s sake.
Finally… the beauty department. Hair, nails, make-up – oh my! It can add up. Offer the bridesmaids an appointment spot to get their nails, hair and make-up done, or let them chose to do it themselves. If you are picking up the tab here, make sure to equally distribute your funds amongst the girls. Just remember to figure in tips to the techs and stylists that took care of you!
So, let’s recap: Never demand, but lead with style and respect. Gift in the accessory department. Follow these rules, and you will have happy gals.
