Bridesmaid etiquette can be tricky to navigate. Being a bridesmaid is both a responsibility and an honor. When a bride chooses you to be in her bridal party, it is because she trusts you enough to be there for her. Most bridesmaids cherish the responsibility and do a great job. Occasionally, a bridesmaid will come along that only is interested in the “honor” part of the gig. In fact, one might mistake them for the bride if they were not better informed. Here are some things that the bridesmaid should never...ever...do:
Bridesmaids Should Never Stress the Bride
Stressing the bride is the complete opposite of what you are supposed to be doing as a bridesmaid a violation of all the rules of bridesmaid etiquette. You are there to make everything easy for the bride on her special day. Furthermore, the time leading up to the wedding should be problem free. More importantly, when problems do come up you need to be the solution, or at least offer to help the bride brainstorm for solutions.
Bridesmaids Should Never Get Jealous of the Maid of Honor
The Maid of Honor is chosen by the bride and it can’t be an easy decision. It seems like every single wedding has at least one bridesmaid that is ticked off that she was not chosen instead. Get over it and understand that this day is not about you. The Maid of Honor has a job to do, and that job will be tougher if you insist on being a brat. Remember that there are often family pressures when it comes to selecting a Maid of Honor. You may be a better friend to the bride, but it could very well cause a scandal in the family that will be talked about for years to come if she doesn't ask her toxic sister to be her Maid Of Honor. If you are really as good a friend to her as you think you are, you will understand and not complain.
Bridesmaids Should Stay Sober Throughout the Process
Drinking at the bachelorette party is certainly a possibility, but you should hold back from getting too toasted. There is nothing more sad than a wedding party looking hung over at the alter. If the bride sees it, she just might come unglued. Keep it reasonable but have a good time. If you really want to have an all-out drinking party for the bachelorette party (and the bride wants one too), plan it for the weekend before the wedding. That will give everyone time to recover and still look pretty for the pictures.
When the focus shifts to creating memories rather than overindulging, the event becomes more about connection, laughter, and celebrating the bride in a way that truly reflects her personality. Exploring creative activities, relaxed daytime experiences, or themed nights can elevate the fun while still keeping things under control, and this is where curated Bachelorette ideas come into play, offering inspiration that ranges from cozy gatherings to adventurous outings. By choosing experiences that fit the group’s dynamic and the bride’s preferences, the bachelorette party can feel meaningful, memorable, and perfectly paced, leaving everyone refreshed, happy, and ready to show up glowing for the big day.
Bridesmaids Should Never Complain About the Attire
I once saw someone have to wear a pea green dress with purple shoes and a red scarf. Even worse, the dress was more like a mini-skirt and a tank top sewn together. The bridesmaids all stood up there and smiled their way through the ceremony looking despite looking like frogs.
If they can wear it and smile, so can you. Yours can’t be that bad.
Bridesmaids Should Never Lie to the Bride
When a bride is getting ready for her wedding, she needs honesty around her. If not from her bridesmaids, where would she get that? From picking out the perfect dress to which hairstyle frames her face, bridesmaids have to be straight with their bride. Sometimes a bride will insist on having something a certain way that you don’t agree with. Express your opinion but then step back if she goes another way. However, there is a difference between being honest and pushing your thoughts on your bride-to-be. It is her wedding so give her the space to choose what she wants.
What are your best tips for being a bridesmaid?
