6 Tips for Being the Perfect Bridesmaid

Hello Girl Talk readers! I am so excited to be here today while Ashley is away busy with all things wedding! I'm Laura and I blog over at Life with Lolo. It's a lifestyle blog with all the usual musings of a 20 something, with everything from bachelorette parties to pupcakes!

Since I have yet to be a bride, I thought I'd enlighten you with guidance on something I have done - been a bridesmaid!  I'm well on my way to 27 dresses (kidding I'm only at 3 so far) so I like to think I'm an expert when it comes to standing beside your bride on her big day. Since it is one of your best friend's, best days ever, it's important for you to be the perfect bridesmaid. Ok, no one is perfect, but here are my tips for being as close to it as possible. One | Don't mess with the dress. You've all heard it before "it's the bride's day so you should wear what she wants you to wear." ABSOLUTELY. The last thing the bride should ever have to worry about on her big day is whether or not you like your bridesmaid dress. So if you don't like it, keep your mouth shut! Most brides are very gracious and ask for your opinions when she picks them out. This is your chance to give your input, but by no means shut down her ideas. This is her day, and her vision for her maids. Respect that and you will have a happy bride.

Tight, satin dresses on a day it's 107 degrees? Yes, because it's her day!

Two | Be there. Be present. Be timely. It's your responsibility as a bridesmaid to attend all of the bridal activities. Yes, I understand there are miles, and finances and emergencies that can get in the way. Bottom line though, you were THAT important to her to be a bridesmaid so these events should be THAT important to you. Don't treat these events as a "have to" though, be present and enjoy the moments with your bride. Put your phone away (other than pictures) and enjoy these once in a lifetime moments with your friend. Lastly be on time. I can not stress this enough especially on the big day! Being late to anything, in my opinion, is rude but to a wedding you are in? About the worst thing I can think of. Keep your stress and the bride's stress low that day (and during other events) by showing up on time, or better yet, early!

Three | Help a sister out. On the big day the best thing to be is helpful. There are a million and one things to be done and if that means you as a bridesmaid have to help, so be it. You are there for the bride and want to make her day perfect, so make it about her and do everything possible to put her at ease. I've done things like styled other bridesmaid's hair, helped the florist get arrangements in the refrigerator, and my favorite "coordinated" the ceremony. Whatever needs to be done! 

Four | Make it meaningful. I know more than anyone being a bridesmaid can get spendy. However, it is very important that you give a meaningful gift to the bride and groom. Yes, the costs add up - shower, bachelorette, dress, accessories... but your gift doesn't have to be expensive, it has to be meaningful. She thought you were special enough to be part of her big day, so do something special and unique for her. I typically do not buy off a registry, I put together my own gift, not only to save on costs, but to make it personal. My favorites have been this custom cutting board and the Moscow Mule Kit (similar) I created for the couple that met in Moscow.

Five | Be grateful. It is a great honor and privilege to be a part of someones big day. Thank your bride. Thank your groom. Thank their families! Every one of my brides have given such sweet gifts and been so appreciative. It's important to reciprocate that. All it takes is a hug and a "thank you." Tell her how important she is to you and how happy you were to be there for her.

Six | Have fun! Do I really need to elaborate on this one? A wedding is a celebration, make the most of it (within reason) and have a blast with some of your favorite people!

Have you been a bridesmaid? Anything you would add? Congratulations Ashley! Thanks so much for having me! Want more Lolo? Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Bloglovin | Pinterest | Facebook