You picked out your posse, and they’re in! Your bridesmaids seem almost as excited as you are.
But what now?
What are you supposed to do to ensure they’re ready, and plan a wedding at the same time?
We’ve come up with 5 easy ways to make sure they show up in the finest way possible, just like you pictured.
1. Communicate
There is an “I” in bride, and it’s essential that you share both your vision and plans.
You need to convey your expectations: what do you envision your bridesmaid’s role to be?
Have a special occasion you’d like your bridesmaids present for? Make you give them a heads up beforehand.
We all lead busy lives, and it’s stressful for everyone to have to try and reshuffle their schedule around at the last minute.
Enlist the help of your maid and or a matron of honor.
As your right-hand ma’am, they can help with the communication responsibilities.
2. Delegate
Here’s a sneaky way to get someone both ready and excited about something: give them a task. Now, this doesn’t have to be anything major. Assigning a small duty to your bridesmaids should make them feel a little more invested in your big day, and you have one less thing to worry about.
From help setting up the tables, to going through recordings of live bands you’re auditioning. Your bridesmaids will love being able to help you decorate and decide who best to get the dance floor grooving.
If one of your bridesmaids has a skill that could lend itself to your big day, see if she’d like to be in charge of integrating it into the wedding. Obviously, you don’t want to put anyone out by creating a formidable project for them. Use your judgment, and allow her the space and grace to say no.
3. Bridesmaid Dress Selection
Ok, this one may be the most fun.
Bridesmaid dresses have come a long way from being the droopy, frumpy curtain-like sacks you may have seen in wedding photos decades ago.
These days, there is no limit to the styles you get to choose from. They are made in all cuts, colors, and even patterns.
Take a peek at some online.
If you don’t live in the same area as your ladies, go online and pick a few of your faves. You can choose from unique shops such as Cicinia, which offers quality bridesmaid dresses. You can email your ideas to your bridesmaids, connect via zoom (maybe each with a glass of bubbles) and see which one they like best.
You’ll want to choose something everyone feels comfortable wearing. A-line cuts are the most flattering for all body types.
If you all live in the same vicinity, or are able to get together in person, even better. You’ll have a blast trying on different options.
Plus, who doesn’t like trying on a particularly unflattering dress, just to get a laugh? Jokes on them though, when it ends up looking stunning…
Moments like this, when you have all your favorite people with you, happy to share in your big day, are some of the best. These are the memories you’ll cherish forever.
4. Alteration
You’ve picked the best bridesmaid dresses, and everyone is going to look absolutely gorgeous standing up there with you. That is, after they’ve had any necessary alterations done to their dress.
Differences in body type, height, etc. means one size fits all doesn’t apply here, nor should it. Each individual will look their best once the alterations have been completed, customizing the dress to them.
Now, for some, the prospect of an alteration may sound super fancy, or like it takes a lot of effort, but really, it’s not that big of a deal. The only thing you’ll want to stress to your bridesmaids is this: do not leave it to the last minute!
Experts recommend getting it done a month before the wedding. Here’s an informative article that breaks down everything to do with bridesmaid dress alteration.
5. Support
You chose your bridesmaids for a reason. They have been there and supported you at various junctures of your life, and this one is no different. If you’re overwhelmed and need some extra support, don’t hesitate to lean on them. Through seeing the “behind the scenes” and being there for you, they get a better idea of what’s happening, and how they can help. They’re rooting for you, and will be there through it all. Helping you get ready, too.
Conclusion:
This is an exciting period in your life, made even more special because of the incredible people you get to share it with. Cherish these moments and the memories you make along the way.