Everything You Need To Know As A Bridesmaid
Everything bridesmaid related
Diamonds and Details: Your Guide to Bridesmaid Bliss
What should the bride be paying for
Bridesmaid duties and wedding day duties
What should your bridesmaids be paying for
Here at Diamonds and Details, we understand that a bridesmaid's role goes far beyond just wearing a pretty dress and walking down the aisle. You're a pillar of support for the bride during this exciting, and sometimes stressful, time. But with all this excitement, questions often arise about finances and expectations.
Who Pays for What? A Bridesmaid's Budget Breakdown
Weddings can get expensive, and navigating who pays for what can be tricky. Here's a general guideline to set expectations:
Bridesmaid's attire: This typically includes the bridesmaid dress, shoes, and accessories. The bride might offer to cover some or all of the dress cost, but it's generally considered the bridesmaid's responsibility. To be fair, as the bride you can help your friends with this by choosing reasonable options!
Hair and makeup: Unless the bride specifically offers to cover these costs, bridesmaids are expected to pay for their own wedding day glam. Something we see a lot of brides do is offer to pay for just the makeup or just the hair! And then the bridesmaid will cover one or the other.
Travel and accommodation: If the wedding requires travel or overnight stays, bridesmaids are usually responsible for these expenses. But, if you are staying in an Airbnb it would be helpful for the bride to offer the bridesmaids a place to stay the night before the wedding. Plus, who doesnโt want a sleepover with all of your friends who are all finally in the same place at the same time!
What the Bride Should Be Providing
While bridesmaids shoulder some costs, the bride should definitely show her appreciation! Here's what a thoughtful bride might offer:
Gifts: A heartfelt thank you gift for your bridesmaids is a lovely way to show your appreciation for their friendship and support. We often times see brides provide a getting ready outfit like a robe or pajamas for the morning of the wedding.
Hair and makeup contribution: While not required, some brides choose to contribute to the cost of hair and makeup for their bridesmaids.
Help with finding affordable options: A considerate bride might help bridesmaids find budget-friendly dress styles or suggest ways to save on hair and makeup. One of the best way to do this is to pick a color palette for your bridesmaids and let them find a dress within their budget in the color of your choosing!
Being a Super Squad Bridesmaid: Tips for the Wedding Day
Now that we've covered the financials, let's talk about how to be a helpful bridesmaid on the wedding day and leading up to the wedding.
Be on Time (and Early!): Weddings are a whirlwind, and the bride will need your help getting ready. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the designated call time. The reason why is because the wedding planner and makeup/hair artist and stylist has a carefully curated timeline throughout the day and makeup always begins at a very prompt time. It is important to be on time to not throw off this schedule.
Offer a Helping Hand: From steaming dresses to running errands, don't hesitate to jump in and help wherever you see a need. You can also offer to the bride to assign โmorning of the wedding tasks.โ Maybe one bridesmaid orders the coffee, the other is in charge of the breakfast, and another is in charge of keeping everyone on track for time!
Positive Vibes Only: Nerves can run high on a wedding day. Be a source of calm and positivity for the bride, and help diffuse any last-minute jitters. The best tip I can give bridesmaids on the wedding morning is to not share any issues or concerns in the bridal suite with her. If there is any sort of conflict or issue that arises like a stain on a bridesmaid dress or a missing bouquet donโt share it with her unless totally necessary! Or unless she makes it clear that she wants to know these things.
Keep the Fun Going: Amidst the hustle and bustle, don't forget to have fun! Share laughter, capture memories, and create a lighthearted atmosphere for the bride.
Show up to the rehearsal on time the day before the wedding! Nothing is more stressful for a bride than thinking her wedding party has no clue what will be going on during the ceremony.
Make sure the bride always has a drink in her hand, youโre playing her favorite music, bringing her snacks, taking her picture during special moments, make sure she feels special and getting the attention she deserves on her wedding day!
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and joyful wedding day for both you and the bride. Remember, communication is key. If you have any questions or concerns about finances or expectations, have an open and honest conversation with the bride.
At Diamonds and Details, we love creating dream weddings for couples in Florida, and that includes making sure their entire bridal party feels supported and informed. We hope this blog helps you navigate your bridesmaid duties with confidence! For more wedding planning tips and ideas, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter!
