How to Choose The Perfect Bride Tribe

Choosing the members of your bridal party is no small task, but we are here to help! There are many important factors to consider before selecting your bridesmaids. These people play a large role and make the day even more special, so they must be prepared for the duties that come with the territory. Before asking anyone, talk to your significant other, consider the responsibilities of bridesmaids, and make the right decisions for your wedding day.

DEFINE EXPECTATIONS

First, talk with your significant other about the expectations for the bridal party. This will clarify the direction both you and your groom will pursue and ensure you’re on the same page about the members of the party. Discussing with your partner and setting ground rules will prevent any miscommunication or potential hurt feelings, and help you decide which people will be the best fit. Some topics to discuss are the size of the bridal party, whether or not having an even number of attendants is important, and if there are siblings to be included or given other important roles.

BRIDESMAID’S ROLE

Accepting the maid of honor or bridesmaid role comes with many responsibilities. The bridesmaids’ main responsibility is organizing both the bridal shower and the bachelorette party, and sometimes assisting the bride with general wedding planning tasks. The bridesmaids should be the bride’s ultimate support system and biggest hype girls! They need to be team players and keep up a positive attitude, especially on the wedding day. When choosing your bridesmaids, keep these duties in mind and choose reliable friends and family. Before asking, be mindful of the large time and financial commitment that being a bridesmaid requires, such as purchasing a dress, alterations, accessories, contributing to the bridal shower and bachelorette, and travel costs. If you have a close loved one who may not be a great fit, be sure to have a conversation to clear the air and prevent confusion or tension; they may be a better fit for a different wedding day role!

YOUR WEDDING: YOUR CALL

Don’t forget, this is your wedding! Ultimately, choose the people that you want to have standing by your side on the most special day. The bridal party should be full of your favorite humans who will support you for years to come.  Don’t worry too much about sticking to traditions; it is perfectly acceptable to have two maids of honor or best men, a best lady, a man of honor, a bridesman, or a groomswoman. Additionally, don’t feel obligated to ask someone just because you were in their wedding. To make anyone outside the bridal party feel more included, invite them to the bridal or bachelorette party, or assign them another significant role. There are many other important positions, such as usher, greeter, candle lighter, ceremony reader, musical performer, or any others that you’d like to create.

BRIDESMAID PROPOSAL

Once you have your list of besties, it’s time to plan a bridesmaid proposal! These proposals range from simple and sincere to elaborate and luxurious; whatever you choose, the key part is to let these girls know how important your friendship is. One of the most popular proposals is to buy a premade box of goodies or to curate your own. For the premade route, head over to Etsy to find tons of options with varying themes. For DIY brides, Pinterest is a great resource to get inspired. To get you started, here are a few classic ideas:

• Bouquet of flowers with a thoughtful card

• Spa day goodies: a bath bomb, body lotion, and a candle

• Beauty goodies: hair accessories, sheet masks, nail polish, or jewelry

There is a lot to consider when asking your friends and family to play such a significant role on your wedding day. Determine bridal party expectations with your groom, keep in mind the bridesmaids’ top responsibilities, and make choices that are the best fit for your wedding. Be kind and mindful of others’ feelings, but be unapologetic in choosing the people who will support you in this new and exciting chapter of your life.