Bridesmaid Blunders
Incorporating your closest family members and friends into your big day is an honor. However, expect a few bumps along the way. Knowing about possible pitfalls can help you smooth out the ride.
Kristen wants to wear crimson and Karen wants to wear powder blue. Andrea is busty and Jill is stick thin. How can you possibly choose a gown that will suit everyone when there are so many personalities and body types to consider? Remember, you're the bride, and while it's nice to solicit the advice of your bridesmaids, you ultimately have the final say. If you want them to wear a red and green plaid gown with a big bow on the back, the ladies should grin and bear it.
When trying out bridesmaids' gowns, it is a good idea to take along at least two members of your bridal party with varying body types. That way you can see how a particular style will look on both frames.
Finding your wedding party's wardrobe doesn't have to be a chore. Preparation is the key to heading off confusion, arguments and hard feelings, so your wedding experience and memories will be enjoyable.
Minding your manners: attendants
Make expectations clear
Tell your bridesmaids for what costs they will be responsible, and inform them well in advance if you need them at any showers, rehearsals or other activities.
Manage your maids
Update them regularly regarding deadlines for dress ordering, alterations, room reservations and other dates. Consider sending an e-mail newsletter to those in the wedding party, providing pertinent details. Nearer to the wedding, this will include information on transportation to and from the ceremony, and times and directions to any day-after brunches.
Be considerate
Being a bridesmaid is an honor, and can be costly. It can include purchasing a dress and accessories, costs for the salon on the big day, travel and hotel costs, in addition to presents for her best gal's shower and wedding. Ask family to put up out-of-town guests, provide info on discounted room blocks from the hotel, and allow bridesmaids to cut costs by wearing their own shoes or jewelry.
Pamper your girls
Your maids may have spent hundreds of dollars to participate in your wedding. Show them that you appreciate them with some girl-time - possibly a girl's night out or an attendants' luncheon.
Choose wisely
Survey your friends and family carefully. Chances are, some of the women in your life - including your groom's sisters - may expect to be in your wedding. If you must limit your bridal party, consider including those individuals in other aspects of the big day by allowing them to sing a song or conduct a reading.
