Smile
Smile for the pictures. Whether it's hot or cold outside, these photos will be cherished for years to come. Look happy for your friend. You've been asked to be a part of a very special day. Behave like it.
Don’t wait for the bride to ask for help, offer it
Some people have a hard time asking for help because they don't want to put anyone out. If the bride says that she's getting ready to send out her invitations, ask her if she needs any help.
If the bride asks for help, help.
Be a good friend
To be a part of any wedding - on any level is very stressful. True friendships are made, and others are broken. I myself tried to back down from a wedding two weeks prior - but the bride would not let me, as it would make her BP look un-even. In the end, it killed our friendship of over 20 years. I remember standing up in front of everyone crying as I read my MOH speech. They were not tears of Joy for the Bride and Groom, but tears of sadness for the end of a friendship.
Be honest about what you can and cannot do, how the bride really looks, what you like and don’t like (before the wedding day).
Don’t complain about the cost
You've been asked to spend some of your hard earned cash ... don't complain about it when the time comes to part with it. Be completely honest and upfront with the bride, especially about what you are willing to spend $$$. I had a bridesmaid that said that money was no problem and SHE picked a $250 BM dress and then continued to complain about how much it was costing and the cost for alterations, etc. It really ended up bumming me out. Keep in mind that you have other costs besides the dress - shoes, hair, makeup, alterations.
It’s the bride’s day!
Opinions during the planning stages are great but don’t push your ideas on the bride, she has the final say. The bride is the star of the show, so focus on her instead of worrying what you look like.
Be understanding
Take the high road (don't take it personally) and know that getting married is like being on some crazy emotional roller coaster for the bride. She may be having to juggle 10 other people (family, FI, etc.) as well as planning the BIG event, working, looking after a family, going to school, whatever. Cut her some slack. When the wedding is over, she will revert back to the friend you know and love. |
